About the Event
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What's in it for me?
Sarah Heuser, AutCon organizer and presenter“I first suspected I was autistic when I was 16 after seeing a character on TV who was explicitly labelled as "Asperger's" and who shared a lot of the same traits as I did. I brought it up with a a few people, and I was told there was no way. I was too good with words, and way too social to be anywhere on the spectrum. I still felt a connection to the spectrum, but I dropped it. Two years later I got my diagnosis. I did then what I always do; I went to the Internet to research. As I researched I found that the best information for me did not come from "experts" who had gone through years of schooling and performing clinical research. No. It came from other people that had lived with the same traits and challenges I had for their entire lives. It came from other autistic people. That's what AutCon is. It's people on the spectrum talking to other people on the spectrum. It's sharing coping methods, and work-arounds, and ways of using our strengths to overcome our weaknesses. Since my diagnosis I have immersed myself in real life situations with other people like me. I love my non-autistic friends and family, but there is something special about being in a group of people whose brains are wired like mine. It's a bit like the feeling of coming home. This is the feeling I hope we can help others feel with AutCon. I hope we can make it feel a little bit like you are coming home.
Jared Stewart, AutCon organizer and presenterWhy should I come to AutCon? That is a great question. We fully realize that the idea of going to a convention of any kind can be an unknown and overwhelming thought for some of us on the Spectrum. (Of course, there are those of us who absolutely love conventions too--otherwise ComicCon and all the others wouldn't even exist!) We're doing everything we can to make sure that the environment at AutCon is accommodating and autism-friendly in every way possible, and that the speakers, panels, and other opportunities will be fun, low-stress, meaningful, valuable, and powerful. That having been said, we're learning as we go. As far as we know, this is the first convention in the history of the world put on BY individuals with Autism FOR individuals with Autism. We think that there is inherent value in this, but truth be told, we have no idea how successful it will be. It could be 20 people who show up this first year, or it could be 200. It could be the absolute perfect mix of information and experiences, or we might be accidentally missing something really significant. We'll never know unless we try it though. No matter what happens, the people who choose to come will be the trailblazers who will shape the future of the autism movement in Utah and beyond. Look over the topics, think about the things you've always wanted to know about being an adult on the Spectrum, and imagine what it will feel like to be around a group who shares your challenges and accepts you for who you are. Come make a positive difference in your life and be a part of history!
Josh Olivas, AutCon organizer, presenter, and Star Wars enthusiastEver heard the phrase "you'll get out of it what you put into it"? Well, good news... That doesn't apply here, because AutCon is putting all the hard work into it for you. It's a conference for those with autism by those with autism - and there's no better source of life advice than that. Looking for answers and guidance to help you overcome the daily struggles of being autistic? Check. AutCon has it! Hoping to find others just like you and build out your physical and emotional support group? Yup. AutCon has it! Wanting to just play in a room full of legos? Of course, AutCon has it! Honestly, all that's left is for you to show up. And whether you show up excited or suspicious, I guarantee you'll leave AutCon feeling motivated and empowered. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I wear ______? A: We want you to feel empowered and comfortable, if that means wearing a suit and tie (hahaha), wearing your favorite sweatshirt, or dressing as your favorite anime character, do it! Keep in mind that you will be around others so please be sure that you are clean, free of strong smells, and that your body is covered. Shirts and shoes are required. Q: What if I need disability accommodations? A: It is important to us that everyone who attends AutCon is able to participate to the extent that they are comfortable. We are happy to make any necessary accommodations. Because we cannot presume to know what you need, we are relying on you to tell us what you need with enough time to make the necessary arrangements. Please contact us via email at [email protected] to request accommodations. Q: Do I have to be there the entire time? A: Again, our priority is your comfort. If you can only be in social environments for a short amount of time, we’re cool with that. You can come when you want and leave when you want as long as you have a ticket. However, we will not be offering full or partial refunds based on time spent at the event. Q: What do you mean by “adult”? A: In order to attend the conference you must be between the ages of 18 and 99. No exceptions. We have sessions geared toward different ages of the lifespan and hope you will attend those that appeal to you most. Due to licensing constraints, childcare will NOT be provided, and anyone under the age of 18 will not be permitted to attend the event. Q: I get nervous about visiting new places. Can I come visit the location before the conference? A: Absolutely! But please schedule your visit. Email us at [email protected] to request a tour. Q: What do you mean by an “autism-friendly environment”? A: This includes:
Q: What if I don't have an official diagnosis? A: It would be inappropriate for us to require a "proof of diagnosis," and quite frankly, we don't really care. Whether you are self-diagnosed, officially diagnosed, or even just suspect that you may be on the spectrum, we invite you to come and be with your tribe. We like you. Q: Is the event in person this year? A: Yes! Having last year's event online was just not the same. We're so excited to welcome everyone back to the event. Q: Why are the tickets so expensive? A: We do our best to keep the ticket price low so that everyone can attend, but there are many costs that go into hosting an event of this size. Please keep in mind that your ticket includes meals for the day and an event T-shirt. We also allow folks to volunteer for the event. Let us know how we can help by emailing us [email protected] Sessions and Activities
Information Sessions
Everyone needs a little coaching now and then. Our experts are here to teach you how they not only live with autism but thrive. Not comfortable asking questions verbally or in front of others? No worries. Non-verbal options will be available in each session.
Plus sessions about mental health, emotional regulation, and more! Panels
Let's face it, autism can be very isolating. Come spend time with your neurotribe, ask them about their experiences, ask them how they make it work, ask them whatever you'd like. Not comfortable asking questions verbally or in front of others? Non-verbal options will be available in each panel.
Activities
Stuff to Look At/Read/Listen to About AutCon
Event Maps
ScenicView Academy Campus Map - click here to view the map
Event Map: Finding Your Way Around - click here to view the map
Directions for AutCon - click here to download directions Friday Schedule
10:00-10:45 CHECK-IN & RESOURCE FAIR
10:45-11:45 ROOM 126 Titles are Hard: My Guide to Being a Being While Autistic, SARAH HEUSER, KEYNOTE ADDRESS 11:45-12:00 ROOM 126 Seating for Lunch (Tacos!) 12:00-1:00 ROOM 126 LUNCH AND NEUROFEEDBACK PRESENTATION
1:15-2:15 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 1 Room 155 Build Your Own Sensory Items Room 170 Dungeon Master Training 101 -Mika McIntosh
Room 238 Lessons from Autistic Memoirs -Christian Swenson
Room 241 Meeting Your Psychological Needs Through Entertainment -Brady Hakes Room 245 Why in the %$(!< Does the Psychology Community Need Help?- Mark Fister (Friday only session)
Room 280 We The People, The Self-Advocacy Movement, Eric Stoker & Courtney Edgington (Friday Only) Room 310 Research Room
2:30-3:30 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 2 MPR 126 Emotional Fitness -Brian K. Chandler Room 155 Build Your Own Sensory Items Room 170 Challenge Your Limits, Don't Limit Your Challenges! -Amy Wadsworth & Taylor Walters Room 241 How Trauma Manifests in Autistic People -Whitney Lee Room 245 Why in the %$(!< Does the Psychology Community Need Help?- Mark Fister (Friday only)
Room 275 Surviving College Panel--Lauren DeBuck, Brady Hakes, Nikki Lower, Caleb Clegg
Room 238 Create Your Own Help Kit -David "Divey" Ivey
Room 280 We The People, The Self-Advocacy Movement -Eric Stoker & Courtney Edgington (Friday Only) Room 310 Research Room
3:45-4:45 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 3 MPR 126 Improv Workshop with IMPROV BROADWAY (Friday only)
Room 241 The Spark For Autism
Room 238 How Trauma Manifests in Autistic People -Whitney Lee Room 310 Research Room
5:00–5:30 ROOM 126 Seating For Dinner (Pasta Bar) 7:00 – 9:00 EVENING ACTIVITIES Atrium Dress up and dance!
Room 170 Wii Games Cafeteria Board gaming
Saturday Schedule
10:00-11:00 CHECK-IN
11:00-12:00 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 1 MPR 126 Systems For Success! -Jared Stewart, M.Ed. (Sat. Only)
MPR 170 Neurofeedback, Nathan Jensen, CMHC
Room 241 Ask Me Anything About SSI -Sarah Heuser
Room 245 Exploring Sensory Stabilization: The Foundation of The Autism Hierarchy of Needs™ - Candace Christiansen, M.Ed., LCMHC (Sat Only) Room 238 Lessons From Autistic Memoirs -Christian Swenson
Room 275 Surviving College Panel--Lauren DeBuck, Brady Hakes, Nikki Lower, Zach Allred, Caleb Clegg
12:00-12:15 ROOM 126 Seating for Lunch 12:15-1:15 ROOM 126 LUNCH (Burrito Salad) 1:30-2:30 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 2 Room 170 Dungeon Master Training -Mika McIntosh
Room 238 How Trauma Manifests in Autistic People, Whitney Lee Room 241 Meeting Your Psychological Needs Through Entertainment -Brady Hakes Room 245 Exploring Sensory Stabilization: The Foundation of The Autism Hierarchy of Needs™ Candace Christiansen, M.Ed., LCMHC (Saturday Only) Room 275 LGBTQ+ and Autistic Panel
Room 280 Getting Your Novel Published, Sarah Bylund (Saturday Only) 2:45-3:45 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 3 MPR 126 Nonverbal Communication—It’s What we DON’T Say! -Jared Stewart, M.Ed.
Room 170 TBA Room 241 TBA-Brady Hakes Room 245 Challenge Your Limits, Don’t Limit Your Challenges! -Amy Wadsworth & Taylor Walters Room 270 Reddit In Real Life Panel- Josh Olivas, Sarah Heuser, Christian Swenson,
Room 280 Managing Complex Healthcare Needs, Storee Powell (Saturday only) 4:00-5:00 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 3 MPR 126 Premiere Screening of ZiGGY and Q&A with Andersen Hazen, Ziggy Montoya, Eric Casper and Director Levi Judson (Only session)
Room 241 The Spark For Autism Room 245 Lessons from Autistic Memoirs --Christian Swenson Room 270 Room 170 TBA Room 238 Ask Me Anything about SSI -Sarah Heuser
5:00–9:00 EVENING ACTIVITIES 5:00 Barbecue (Hamburgers, chips, drinks) 5:30 Chalk Art Competition 6:00–7:00 Bonfire, Volleyball, Outdoor Games 7:00-9:00 Movie Night |
PRESENTERS
Presenters and panelists are adults on the autism spectrum (unless otherwise specified). Presenter list is updated regularly. Know someone who should be part of our event? Tell us about them in the link below.
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Jared Stewart, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Named the 2018 Presenter of the Year by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs and the 2011 Educator of the Year by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers. He currently works as Program Director for ScenicView Academy— a transitional school for neurodivergent adults targeting functional independence—where he teaches his students to recognize and embrace the strengths of their diagnoses. In 2016 he was appointed by the governor to the Utah Developmental Disabilities Council and currently serves as the Council’s Vice Chairperson. Jared has spent almost two decades working with autistic adolescents and adults, and has shared his views on the techniques and mindsets that lead to improved outcomes with local and national audiences. In his rare free moments, Jared enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with his wife and three children— and adheres to the belief that there is untapped greatness in everyone, regardless of their so-called “disabilities”. |
Candice Christiansen, M.Ed., LCMHC
Candice Christiansen, is an autistic woman as well as a licensed clinician and an autism
and intimacy specialist. She was diagnosed as autistic in her 40s after years of being
misdiagnosed. She is passionate about providing life skills to autistic adults around the
world via teaching effective tools for navigating their daily lives and enjoying fulfilling
relationships. Her program, Namasté Center for Healing is internationally known for
providing outreach, psycho-education, and therapeutic support to allistic as well as
neurodivergent individuals who have a range of relationship and intimacy issues.
Candice and her allistic partner Chris host an Autism and Intimacy Podcast called
Spectrum of Love and have created two webinars for autistic couples about
understanding autism and navigating communication issues. Candice consults and
trains clinicians, inpatient and intensive outpatient programs, and organizations around
the world on the accurate treatment of autistic adults who struggle with various intimacy issues.
Candice Christiansen, is an autistic woman as well as a licensed clinician and an autism
and intimacy specialist. She was diagnosed as autistic in her 40s after years of being
misdiagnosed. She is passionate about providing life skills to autistic adults around the
world via teaching effective tools for navigating their daily lives and enjoying fulfilling
relationships. Her program, Namasté Center for Healing is internationally known for
providing outreach, psycho-education, and therapeutic support to allistic as well as
neurodivergent individuals who have a range of relationship and intimacy issues.
Candice and her allistic partner Chris host an Autism and Intimacy Podcast called
Spectrum of Love and have created two webinars for autistic couples about
understanding autism and navigating communication issues. Candice consults and
trains clinicians, inpatient and intensive outpatient programs, and organizations around
the world on the accurate treatment of autistic adults who struggle with various intimacy issues.
Sarah Adia Heuser
Sarah has a bachelor's degree in behavioral science with an emphasis in psychology. Sarah is 30 years old and lives in Orem, Utah. She works for ScenicView Academy helping people with their government benefits. She was diagnosed as autistic with a side of Nonverbal Learning Disorder when she was 18. Upon her diagnosis she threw herself into studying autism from an autistic point of view by listening to fellow autistic folks while also reading academic research on the subject. In 2019 she received both the ARUCC Michael Sproul's Community Spirit award, and the UDDC's Professional of the Year award. She is currently working on her Master's degree at the University of Utah.
Sarah Adia Heuser
Sarah has a bachelor's degree in behavioral science with an emphasis in psychology. Sarah is 30 years old and lives in Orem, Utah. She works for ScenicView Academy helping people with their government benefits. She was diagnosed as autistic with a side of Nonverbal Learning Disorder when she was 18. Upon her diagnosis she threw herself into studying autism from an autistic point of view by listening to fellow autistic folks while also reading academic research on the subject. In 2019 she received both the ARUCC Michael Sproul's Community Spirit award, and the UDDC's Professional of the Year award. She is currently working on her Master's degree at the University of Utah.
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Sarah Bylund
A hopeless bookworm and native Utahn, Sarah Bylund enjoys a variety of nerdy and not-so-nerdy pursuits such as reading, writing, collecting antique inkwells and poison bottles, prowling museums, taking photographs, cooking, traveling, and playing board games and card games. As for books, she particularly enjoys science-fiction and fantasy as well as historical romance, mysteries and suspense/thrillers. By day, she works as a customer service representative in the genealogy field, and by night, she works as a freelance writer and editor. She has two master’s degrees: one in Publishing and Writing from Emerson College (Boston, MA) and one in American Literature from Brigham Young University (Provo, UT). One day she hopes to own two or three dogs. She resides in Utah, and Deja Ortega: Oddsbreaker will be her first novel. |
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Mark Fister
Mark Fister is a father and husband, executive, snowboarder, technologist, trail runner, speaker, canyoneer, author, investor, and terrible chess player. Mark loves to see business and technology from as many perspectives as possible. To wit, he has held 20 completely different titles in the software industry at companies like Dell, IBM, eBay, PayPal, and more, making him a jack of one trade and a master of none. He has even tried his hand at product management, sales engineering, straight up sales, and unfortunately, Dad jokes. When not geeking out on tech, Mark is geeking out on something. Recently, it has been learning the ways of the servant leader. Having interviewed more than 100 people on the topic of servant leadership, Mark was researching mindsets for a series of books when he learned that he was on the spectrum. What a relief it was, for Mark’s entire life suddenly made sense to him! While soul searching (stay in tech? write books?), he was serendipitously introduced to auticon, a software and diversity & inclusion services company whose consultants are on the spectrum. There, he serves as Practice Director where his mission is to do his part to end joblessness for those with autism.
Mark Fister is a father and husband, executive, snowboarder, technologist, trail runner, speaker, canyoneer, author, investor, and terrible chess player. Mark loves to see business and technology from as many perspectives as possible. To wit, he has held 20 completely different titles in the software industry at companies like Dell, IBM, eBay, PayPal, and more, making him a jack of one trade and a master of none. He has even tried his hand at product management, sales engineering, straight up sales, and unfortunately, Dad jokes. When not geeking out on tech, Mark is geeking out on something. Recently, it has been learning the ways of the servant leader. Having interviewed more than 100 people on the topic of servant leadership, Mark was researching mindsets for a series of books when he learned that he was on the spectrum. What a relief it was, for Mark’s entire life suddenly made sense to him! While soul searching (stay in tech? write books?), he was serendipitously introduced to auticon, a software and diversity & inclusion services company whose consultants are on the spectrum. There, he serves as Practice Director where his mission is to do his part to end joblessness for those with autism.
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Storee Powell
Storee is the assistant executive director of Neurodiverse UT, and freelances in writing and art. She lives with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and several accompanying complications. She worked for the Center for Persons with Disabilities at USU from 2011 to 2020. She is a 2010 graduate of Utah State University with a degree in print journalism & Women and Gender Studies. She's experienced in public relations, radio broadcast and print reporting. She's won multiple awards from the Society of Professional Journalists & the Utah Broadcasters Association. She's been a reporter and producer for Utah Public Radio covering women's issues, news & social issues. Storee loves dogs, the disabled community, all things fine arts and crafts, and hermitting at home with her spouse Jim and her darling chihuahua. |
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Whitney Lee
Whitney Lee is an Autistic Disability Rights and Mental Health Advocate. She is a passionate animal and nature lover . She enjoys writing and going on walks with her dog Kira.
Whitney Lee is an Autistic Disability Rights and Mental Health Advocate. She is a passionate animal and nature lover . She enjoys writing and going on walks with her dog Kira.
Christian Swenson
Christian Swenson is an adjunct professor who's taught upwards of 20 solo classes at local universities in the last few years. A recent graduate of BYU's Comparative Studies MA program, Christian has given presentations on art history and philosophy at a few national conferences. He has autism, he has a YouTube channel about it (search "Christian Swenson autism" and you'll find it), and he wrote a play about autism called "The Box" that was produced to sold-out audiences in 2013. He married the love of his life in a small ceremony on the cusp of the pandemic. His interests include philosophy, mysticism, and the psychology of trauma.
Christian Swenson is an adjunct professor who's taught upwards of 20 solo classes at local universities in the last few years. A recent graduate of BYU's Comparative Studies MA program, Christian has given presentations on art history and philosophy at a few national conferences. He has autism, he has a YouTube channel about it (search "Christian Swenson autism" and you'll find it), and he wrote a play about autism called "The Box" that was produced to sold-out audiences in 2013. He married the love of his life in a small ceremony on the cusp of the pandemic. His interests include philosophy, mysticism, and the psychology of trauma.
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Eric Stoker
Eric Stoker lives in West Jordan and is the information specialist for the Utah Developmental Disabilities Council (UDDC). He's served on the Utah Parent Center Board of Directors, People First of Utah Board of Directors and the Citizen Advisory Council at Utah State University representing the voice of self-advocates. Eric has spoken nationwide about issues that affect people with autism. He received the Champion of Equal Opportunity Award from the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities in 2014. He's a huge basketball fan, attends Utah Utes Basketball, and is an assistant manager of West Jordan High School’s basketball team. He's an avid train buff and has amazing knowledge about the past and current railroad systems in Utah and throughout the United States. |
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David Ivey
David goes by Divey (pronounced d-EYE-vee), and identifies as Autistic or an Aspie, rather than “having Autism” or being on the Autism Spectrum. He is currently studying at the University of Utah working towards a Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle East Studies – Arabic, with minors in Spanish and in Health Education. I was 48 years old when I was diagnosed, though I have experienced neurodivergent differences all my life. He enjoys playing volleyball, swimming, bowling, and walking at parks with friends. He also enjoys building with Legos and playing board games. He has learned to adapt his needs using activities and other plans of action. One of those strategies is a HELP Kit, which he uses to communicate with others when anxious or overwhelmed. |
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Taylor Walters
Taylor Walters graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies. He is currently the Residential Specialist and Coach for the NextWork Autism Program at Columbus Community Center. He was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder as a toddler and has grown to find enjoyment encouraging others on the Spectrum to be as independent as they possibly can. In 2012, he was awarded the Dixie Spirit Award at Dixie State University. He is a man of many interests, but mainly enjoys going to metal concerts, studying financial and business education, and nerding out in Marvel and Star Wars conversations. |
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Brady Hakes
Hi there, Brady here. I'm a Student at UVU and a Senicview Academy alumnus working toward a communications degree. Once I graduate I plan to move into the field of instructional design. (which is designing instructions, such as textbooks, workplace training or school curriculum.) I was diagnosed as autistic when I was two or three. I am a big nerd who loves stories from any type of media: games, books, shows, rpgs and more. I especially love the Wings of Fire series, Monster Hunter, and the podcast Wolf 359 (It’s So Good! Go listen to it Now!) |
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NOn-Autistic Presenters
Amy Wadsworth
Amy Wadsworth graduated from the University of Utah with a Master’s Degree in Human Development and Social Policy and a Disability Studies Certificate. She is currently the NextWork Program Director with Columbus Community Center. Amy is the mother of a young woman with autism and she went back to school to get her master’s degree so that she could better learn how to care for her daughter and help others in similar situations. Originally hired as a researcher, Amy ensures that the program is data driven and focuses on data collection to continuously evaluate and revise the program. When Amy isn’t working, she’s probably cross stitching, tap dancing, or watching a Marvel movie.
Amy Wadsworth graduated from the University of Utah with a Master’s Degree in Human Development and Social Policy and a Disability Studies Certificate. She is currently the NextWork Program Director with Columbus Community Center. Amy is the mother of a young woman with autism and she went back to school to get her master’s degree so that she could better learn how to care for her daughter and help others in similar situations. Originally hired as a researcher, Amy ensures that the program is data driven and focuses on data collection to continuously evaluate and revise the program. When Amy isn’t working, she’s probably cross stitching, tap dancing, or watching a Marvel movie.
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Brian K. Chandler
Brian K. Chandler was born and raised in Boston, MA. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Brigham Young University, a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Kansas State University and a Doctor of Psychology degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He practiced psychology in Missouri for 22 years specializing in psychological assessment, working with children, adolescents and their families and treating depression and anxiety. He relocated to Utah in August of 2018 and currently works with the Utah Department of Corrections. He also seee clients in an outpatient practice at TherapyUtah in Lehi, UT. |
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Levi Harris Levi Judson Harris is an actor, writer and director, known for Dreamer in the Falls (2015), The Thunderbird (2019) and Anotherworld (2019). Join him and the cast of ZiGGY for a screening and Q & A Panel |
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Health and safety info |
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We're meeting in person this year, and that makes some people nervous. We offer the following information so that you will know what to expect, and can decide what is right for you.
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About the Event
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BY AUTISM FOR AUTISM
This one-of-a-kind convention is designed by adults on the autism spectrum, to support both professional and personal networking, to provide accurate information, and to highlight services and resources available in the community. Presenters and panelists on the spectrum, share their knowledge and personal experiences in an autism-friendly setting. Presenters, panelists, & audio-visual staff are volunteers. Help make AutCon possible - Click Here to Donate |
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Wanna Present at AutCon?
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
SUPPORT THIS UNIQUE EVENT
ScenicView Academy is a 501 (c) (3) public charity, all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. (Fed Tax I.D. Number 20-3604973)
- Gold Sponsors ($5000 or more) will receive logo placement on all advertising leading up to the event, signage and verbal recognition at the event, logo placement in event program and on event T-shirt
- Silver Sponsors ($2000) will receive verbal recognition at the event, logo placement in event program and on event T-shirt.
- Friend of ScenicView Academy ($500) will receive logo placement in event program and on event T-shirt.
ScenicView Academy is a 501 (c) (3) public charity, all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. (Fed Tax I.D. Number 20-3604973)
For more information contact: |
To become a sponsor contact: |
