Bobby Pendry, sophomore neuroscience major, and Megan Pruitt, senior psychology major and child development minor, combined their efforts with Naomi Ekas, assistant psychology professor, to bring "Autism Speaks U" to campus, making the university the third college in Texas to host the national organization.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which encompasses autism, Aspergers and other mental disorders, are disorders that affect brain development, according to the official website. When referring to the range of disorders encompassed by ASD, it is called the spectrum.
The university chapter will focus on advocating and creating awareness of the disorder on campus, said Priutt, the president of the university's chapter of "Autism Speaks U". The group will have monthly meetings and fundraisers to create one big event each semester, she said.
Pruitt became interested in autism when she began working as a lab assistant for Ekas. She said her interest peaked because she was able to work with younger children with autism.
Pendry, vice president of the chapter, said he wanted to create an autism awareness group, similar to one he started in high school, because his brother is on the autism spectrum. Because the university does not allow more than one of certain kind of group, he decided to join the organization.
Robbins said she wants the group to be the "megaphone" for the metroplex.
Upcoming events: The first "Autism Speaks U" event will be on Oct. 19 at the Hope Center for Autism in Fort Worth. Students will babysit children while their parents have a night to themselves.
