Event Details

Individuals with autism are unemployed or underemployed at a higher rate than their peers with other developmental disabilities.  Are employers missing out on hiring people known for focus, efficiency, and innovation because traditional hiring procedures are barriers to employment? This presentation will define autism spectrum disorder, neurodiversity, and how when everybody gives a little, we all benefit.

Meet our speakers:

Laurie Cramer is the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Greater Akron. Laurie was hired in 2011, and became the first staff member of what had been an all-volunteer parent organization. Laurie had been a long-time volunteer, including her last position as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Prior to her current position, she worked in the field of communications, most recently as the spokesperson for the Summit County Prosecutor.  Her experience also included being the Communications Director and spokesperson for two national energy-related associations, as well as a Senior Vice President for a public affairs firm in Washington, D.C.  Laurie also served as a Press Secretary to two Congressmen in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Laurie’s drive and passion to support a better life for individuals on the autism spectrum came from her family’s personal journey of raising a child with autism. Laurie and her family moved to Akron from Washington, D.C. in 2003.  At that time, the family was learning that their two-and-a-half year old son likely had autism. From that time forward, life forever changed.

Laurie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Florida State University and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Development from George Washington University.  She is married to Gregg Cramer and they reside in Fairlawn with their two sons.

and

Zachary Strickler, Neurodiversity Coordinator, Kent State University, grew up spending a good deal of time in Akron with his grandparents. He received his Bachelor of Arts at the University of Akron and his Me.D in Rehabilitation Counseling From Kent State University.

His current work’s focus on helping the neurodiverse students of Kent State university in the reals of social networking, academics, and career exploration. Zach also recently joined the Autism Society of Greater Akron’s Board of Directors.

Thank you to our November sponsor!

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