Autism Community Mourns Loss of Leader in the Field

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Any time we lose someone on our band wagon, whether we agree with

their point of view or not, we are disadvantaged...

Autism Community Mourns Loss of Leader in the Field

Dr. Schopler an Autism Community Hero

The Autism Society of America (ASA) is deeply saddened by the loss

of Schopler, M.D., to cancer late last night. Schopler - an

honorary ASA board member - revolutionized treatment for children

and adults with autism through an extraordinary career. Upon joining

the faculty of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in

1964, he replaced psychodynamic theories of " parent blaming " with

parent-professional collaboration and provision of the best possible

educational opportunities to children with autism. initiated

the TEACCH Program's humane, innovative approach to autism at a time

when the field was quite primitive, and his work has influenced

autism treatment worldwide. In addition, his scholarly activities

have enriched the field and disseminated his forward-thinking ideas

to programs everywhere.

" The autism community has lost a true hero in the field, " said ASA

President and CEO Lee Grossman. " 's death really hits home for

me, as he was the doctor who diagnosed my son, Vance, with autism at

a time when I couldn't get any answers. The entire autism community

mourns his passing and our thoughts are with his family at this

difficult time. "

Details on Dr. Schopler's memorial are pending. ASA will post that

information on our Web site when it is available.