Student Achievements
Public Health Graduate Student Presents at the Michigan Autism Conference
October 10, 2022
Longtime Laker Maggie Carey had the opportunity to present her research on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at the Michigan Autism Conference in October 2022, in Kalamazoo, MI.
The Michigan Autism Conference’s mission is “to disseminate information and training on scientifically-validated, behaviorally-based treatments to parents and professionals who work with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, and to promote awareness and training of closely related conceptual, scientific, and ethical issues. This mission aims to increase functional skill development and decrease behavioral excesses to ensure individuals with autism can live enriched high-quality lives.”
The study, titled “Sensory-friendly built environments and accommodations for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A Scoping Review,” is a joint effort by Maggie and Dr. Julie Vandermolen. The lack of sensory-friendly environments for individuals with an ASD was the focus of their research. “A ‘Quiet Hour’ where the lights are dimmed, noise levels are reduced, cart collection is paused, and beepers at the cash register are turned off can be the framework for other grocery stores to build off of to ensure their store is an inclusive environment where individuals with ASD can come and complete their activities of daily living,” suggested Maggie.
The brilliant Laker graduated in April 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Allied Health Sciences from Grand Valley and is now continuing her education here with a Master’s in Public Health. She is planning to complete her degree in April 2023.
Maggie hopes her efforts will change how people views disabilities and help improve inclusivity in our society for those with ASD.
We are so proud of you, Maggie! Thank you for your dedication in an ever-important field of research!