Greenwood Autism Center Celebrated at Homecoming
Members of the University Board of Governors, the Greenwood Interprofessional Autism Center Launch Team, and Ceremony Speakers prepare to cut the ribbon in celebration of the next phase of the project. With the center preparing to serve clients later this fall, the University hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony in conjunction with Homecoming activities.
Since 2015, Truman has been working to convert the former elementary school into an interprofessional center designed to provide in-depth, interdisciplinary assessment and intervention for children with autism or suspected autism, as well as other neurodevelopmental disorders. The Greenwood Interprofessional Autism Center is scheduled to begin providing services to clients later this fall.
“It is very exciting to have this transformational project move to the next phase,” said University President Susan L. Thomas. “It is the persistence and determination of so many individuals and organizations that have made this center a reality. The powerful impact of the Greenwood Center to locally meet the needs of our community, as well as provide educational experiences that will prepare our graduates to provide much-needed services regionally and across the state, cannot be underestimated.”
Financial support for the transformation of the Greenwood Interprofessional Autism Center has come largely from the Missouri legislature, which has appropriated more than $7.4 million. A congressional earmark by Sen. Roy Blunt provided an additional $3.42 million in federal funds. Truman also received a $1.1 million grant from the Sunderland Foundation of Kansas City, and Adair County SB 40 sponsored the first year of the director’s salary.
In addition to serving area clients, the Greenwood Interprofessional Autism Center will allow for high-quality training for Truman students. Licensed professionals will supervise Truman students enrolled in health-related academic programs including: applied behavior analysis; communication disorders; counseling; education; exercise science; health science; nursing; and psychology.
With in-person services set to begin later this fall, the Greenwood Interprofessional Autism Center is currently pre-certifying potential clients. An online form for individuals, family members or guardians of those who may benefit from the center’s services is available at greenwood.truman.edu.
The Greenwood Interprofessional Autism Center is in the process of hiring licensed professionals equipped to provide a variety of services. Qualified health care providers interested in career opportunities at the center can email GreenwoodJobs@truman.edu or visit the employment link at truman.edu.
