Registration open for 2025 Summer Institute on Neurodevelopmental Disabilities
By Marianne Russ Sharp
Daylong conference features families and experts who share research and resources on autism, ADHD, fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome and more
(SACRAMENTO)
Registration is now open for the UC Davis MIND Institute’s 24th annual Summer Institute on Neurodevelopmental Disabilities. The one-day conference on July 25 will bring together researchers, health care providers, individuals with disabilities and their families, community members and students, among others.
The MIND Institute’s Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities hosts the annual event, with help from community partners. This year’s theme, “Bridging Science and Real Lives,” highlights the connection between research and everyday experiences.
“We are thrilled about the focus of this year’s event, linking research to practical strategies for neurodevelopmental disabilities,” said Amber Fitzgerald, co-coordinator of the event and director of education initiatives at the MIND Institute. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with diverse individuals, co-presenting and sharing insights, and fostering meaningful collaboration.”
Another highlight will be a “Voices of Autism” panel, where autistic individuals and family members will discuss how to create more inclusive communities, based on their lived experiences.
Attendees can also choose from six interactive workshops on these topics:
Language development and communication in individuals with Down syndrome
These sessions are designed to provide practical tools and the latest information, including research from top MIND Institute experts.
A group of experts, self-advocates and family members take part in a panel discussion at the 2024 Summer Institute on Neurodevelopmental Disabilities.
“The Summer Institute provides a dynamic environment for community members to share and learn together,” said Kelly Heung, co-coordinator of the event and associate director of the LEND training program at the MIND Institute. “Whether you’re a professional, an advocate, or someone with lived experience, everyone will gain valuable insights that are practical and inspirational.”
Registration is now open. Early bird discounts of 10% are available through June 1. Fees vary depending on attendee type and include breakfast, lunch and digital resources. Continuing education credits are also available for health care professionals.
The UC Davis MIND Institute in Sacramento, Calif. is a unique, interdisciplinary research, clinical, and education center committed to deepening scientific understanding of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. It is a highly collaborative center, bringing together families, researchers, clinicians, community leaders and volunteers with the common goal of developing more personalized, equitable, and scientifically proven systems of support and intervention. The institute has major research efforts in autism, fragile X syndrome, chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Down syndrome. More information about the institute and its Distinguished Lecturer Series, including previous presentations in this series, is available on the Web at https://health.ucdavis.edu/mind-institute/.
