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June   25-26,  2021    10AM



Buy Tickets

​Help  make  AutCon  possible -  Click  Here  to  Donate

About the Event

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 presenter

Why 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 enthusiast

Ever 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 AutCon@svacademy.org 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 AutCon@svacademy.org to request a tour.

Q: What do you mean by an “autism-friendly environment”?

A: This includes:
  • Small Sessions
  • Sensory Supports
  • Dedicated quiet spaces
  • Social Supports
  • Natural light
  • Limited unsolicited social contact
  • Indoor and outdoor spaces

​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 AutCon@svacademy.org
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.​
​
  • Exploring Sensory Stabilization: The Foundation of The Autism Hierarchy of Needs™
  • Nonverbal Communication—It’s What we DON’T Say!
  • Emotional Fitness
  • Challenge Your Limits, Don’t Limit Your Challenges!​
  • Ask Me Anything About SSI
  • Neurofeedback
  • Managing Complex Medical Needs
  • We The People, The Self-Advocacy Movement


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.
​
  • LGBTQ and Autistic Panel 
  • Surviving College as a Person on the Spectrum
  • ​Reddit In Real Life Panel

Activities
​
  • ​Sensory Room--Need to decompress a little? We get it. The sensory room is full of objects to help you calm and focus yourself so you can be better prepared for learning and interacting with others. Come and go as you please. Stay as long as you’d like.
  • Build Your Own Sensory Items
  • Open Art Studio--Our art studio will be open throughout AutCon. We’ll have manga patterns and adult coloring pages available, or you can work on some of your own creations. Art is a great low-stress way to meet new people.
  • Research Room
    The research on autism in adulthood is severely lacking, and advancing research helps us all. University researchers are waiting to talk to YOU! No probes, no wires, no crazy mad scientist stuff. Just some nice people who want to hear about YOU (with your informed consent of course). Do it for science!   
  • Sitting and Knitting
    Are you handy with yarn? Want to learn to knit or crochet? Being social is easier when you're hands are occupied with wonderful colors. 
  • Bonfire
    Singing is optional, but the s'mores are mandatory.
  • Karaokee
    All voices welcome!
  • Dance
    Come shake what your momma gave ya!
  • ​Volleyball
    Bump it! Spike it! That's the way we like it!
  • Movies

Stuff to Look At/Read/Listen to About AutCon
Read
  • Their Voice: AutCon Convention to Help Adults with Autism​ ​
  • Autism convention is being planned by those with autism for those on the spectrum

Listen
  • ​AutCon on the Wasatch Gazette​
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  • AutCon on the Utah Weekly Forum
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Look

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 
  • Show your ticket upon arrival to pick up your event T-shirt and individualized name badge (your name badge will also let others know the level of social interaction you are comfortable with). 
  • Stop by the resource fair and see what services are available in the community specifically for autistic adults. 
  • Take a look around, get to know the building. We want you feel comfortable here.

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
  • Neurofeedback is biofeedback technology that harnesses the brain’s neuroplasticity – its ability to change itself – in order to bring about improvement in a variety of symptoms which can interfere with life satisfaction. This non-medicinal approach trains the brain to function optimally, improving attention, mood, learning ability and more. We will demonstrate how Neurofeedback works, and answer your questions.

1:15-2:15         CONCURRENT SESSIONS 1
Room 155        Build Your Own Sensory Items
​
Room 170        Dungeon Master Training 101 -Mika McIntosh
  • Dungeons and Dragons is a structured yet incredibly flexible game that encourages a lot of social interaction. We'll teach you how to start and lead your own game, with tips on how to be collaborative, flexible, and make the kinds of decisions that will let your game shine. 

Room 238       Lessons from Autistic Memoirs -Christian Swenson
  • Autism has a weird relationship with language: we can be nonverbal, hyperverbal, or somewhere in between, but we tend to relate to words and letters in unique ways. Temple Grandin says "I think in pictures," that words are a second and not a first language for her. And yet those words stand at the beginning of a memoir made entirely out of words. The struggle to speak the autistic experience is the struggle to be heard, to be listened to. In this way, to articulate ourselves to liberate ourselves. And Temple Grandin is one of many brave autistic souls who have wrestled with words and won. In this presentation, I'll look at lessons we can learn from these authors and their words--specifically, their autobiographies and memoirs. How do these autistic writers write their autism? How does autism actually speak? Let's listen.

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)
  • Have you ever wondered why psychologists/psychiatrists are so focused on autistic people’s challenges? Or wondered why so many “experts” rarely, if ever, focus on strengths? This inspirational talk is one part controversial and one part mind blowing. Mark Fister’s claim, and he’ll substantiate this, is that they’re doing diagnoses all wrong!




Room 275        LGBTQ+ and Autistic Panel
  • Researchers are beginning to find a strong correlation between the autism spectrum and being on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Join our panelists as they discuss topics like finding a date, discussing autism with a partner, finding their communities, and other intersections of being on multiple spectrums.

Room 280       We The People, The Self-Advocacy Movement, Eric                              Stoker & Courtney Edgington (Friday Only)

Room 310        Research Room
  • The research on autism in adulthood is severely lacking, and advancing research benefits everyone. University researchers are waiting to talk to YOU! No probes, no wires, no crazy mad scientist stuff. Just some nice people who want to hear about YOU (with your informed consent of course). Do it for science!   

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)
  • Have you ever wondered why psychologists/psychiatrists are so focused on autistic people’s challenges? Or wondered why so many “experts” rarely, if ever, focus on strengths? This inspirational talk is one part controversial and one part mind blowing. Mark Fister’s claim, and he’ll substantiate this, is that they’re doing diagnoses all wrong!

Room 275     Surviving College Panel--Lauren DeBuck, Brady Hakes,                          Nikki Lower, Caleb Clegg
  • Considering college? Worried that you may not be up for it? Our panel of autistic college students is here to save the day! Learn study tips, tricks for time management, and how to navigate the world of academia.

Room 238     Create Your Own Help Kit -David "Divey" Ivey
  • Do you ever get overwhelmed, over stimulated, frustrated, upset, etc and don't know how to get the help you need?  Do you have situations that repeat and you want to make things better? Divey is an Aspie who learned and adapted to many situations before he was told he is autistic. He knows what it's like to need help and not know how to get what you need. He has developed a HELP Kit to help him in times of difficulty. Come and hear Divey's experience. Hear how his HELP Kit helps him, learn what a kit could do for you and create a digital protocol for your phone or that you can print.

Room 280       We The People, The Self-Advocacy Movement -Eric                              Stoker & Courtney Edgington (Friday Only) 

Room 310      Research Room
  • The research on autism in adulthood is severely lacking, and advancing research benefits everyone. University researchers are waiting to talk to YOU! No probes, no wires, no crazy mad scientist stuff. Just some nice people who want to hear about YOU (with your informed consent of course). Do it for science!  

3:45-4:45     CONCURRENT SESSIONS 3

MPR  126    Improv Workshop with IMPROV BROADWAY (Friday only)
  • ImprovBroadway is Utah's first full-time comedy school and theater.  You can try your hand at improv, or just sit back and watch the fun.  
Room 155    Build Your Own Sensory Items

Room 241   The Spark For Autism
  • SPARK is the largest genetic study of autism ever. We believe that to find answers for you, we need to understand what makes you unique. And what connects you with others. We do this through studying genetic, behavioral and medical information. Join this information session and learn if you'd like to participate.
Room 245   Emotional Fitness -Brian K. Chandler      

Room 238   How Trauma Manifests in Autistic People -Whitney Lee 

Room 310    Research Room
  • The research on autism in adulthood is severely lacking, and advancing research benefits everyone. University researchers are waiting to talk to YOU! No probes, no wires, no crazy mad scientist stuff. Just some nice people who want to hear about YOU (with your informed consent of course). Do it for science!  
​
5:00–5:30 
ROOM  126    Seating For Dinner  (Pasta Bar)

7:00 – 9:00    EVENING ACTIVITIES

Atrium          Dress up and dance!
  • Whether it's a ballgown, a zoot suit, your unicorn onesie, or some award-winning cosplay, come show it off and meet some new friends. (The atrium is the big open space in the center of the building)
Room 155     Watching Loki with Friends

Room 170     Wii Games

Cafeteria       Board gaming
  • Settlers of Catan? Exploding Kittens? Know Your Meme?  We've got what you like. Come play! 

Room 245    Karaoke!  
  • All singers welcome.
Saturday Schedule

10:00-11:00    CHECK-IN 
  • Show your ticket upon arrival to pick up your event T-shirt and individualized name badge (your name badge will also let others know the level of social interaction you are comfortable with). 
  • Take a look around, get to know the building. We want you feel comfortable here.
 
11:00-12:00      CONCURRENT SESSIONS 1
MPR  126       Systems For Success! -Jared Stewart, M.Ed. (Sat. Only)
  • We don't talk enough about autistic strengths, but research shows that those of us on the spectrum typically show marked strengths in systemization—the drive to analyze, construct, and institute systems.  In this in-depth presentation, Jared will demonstrate how to develop and utilize systems that will help increase cognitive flexibility, optimize independence, and maximize your chances for lifetime success. Some example systems will be provided for such areas as communication, relationship building, organization, dealing with stress/change, self-regulation/self-care, understanding human behavior/motivation; as well as a handy "system for systems" so that you can make your own Success Systems.

MPR  170         Neurofeedback, Nathan Jensen, CMHC
  • Neurofeedback is biofeedback technology that harnesses the brain’s neuroplasticity – its ability to change itself – in order to bring about improvement in a variety of symptoms which can interfere with life satisfaction. This non-medicinal approach trains the brain to function optimally, improving attention, mood, learning ability and more. We will demonstrate how Neurofeedback works, and answer your questions.

Room 241        Ask Me Anything About SSI -Sarah Heuser 
  • Sarah has been navigating the world of Social Security and other government benefits for the past five years. She’s a bit of a nerd about it, and she would love to share some of her knowledge with you. She cannot give advice, but she can answer questions and share experiences that may benefit those who are on benefits, or who are considering benefits for themselves or loved ones.
 
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 
  • Autism has a weird relationship with language: we can be nonverbal, hyperverbal, or somewhere in between, but we tend to relate to words and letters in unique ways. Temple Grandin says "I think in pictures," that words are a second and not a first language for her. And yet those words stand at the beginning of a memoir made entirely out of words. The struggle to speak the autistic experience is the struggle to be heard, to be listened to. In this way, to articulate ourselves to liberate ourselves. And Temple Grandin is one of many brave autistic souls who have wrestled with words and won. In this presentation, I'll look at lessons we can learn from these authors and their words--specifically, their autobiographies and memoirs. How do these autistic writers write their autism? How does autism actually speak? Let's listen.

Room 275        Surviving College Panel--Lauren DeBuck, Brady Hakes, Nikki Lower, Zach Allred, Caleb Clegg
  • Considering college? Trying to stay in college? Worried that you may not be up for it? Our panel of autistic college students is here to save the day! Learn study tips, tricks for time management, and how to navigate the world of academia.

Room 280        Managing Complex Healthcare Needs -Storee Powell (Saturday only)

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
  • Dungeons and Dragons is a structured yet incredibly flexible game that encourages a lot of social interaction. We'll teach you how to start and lead your own game, with tips on how to be collaborative, flexible, and make the kinds of decisions that will let your game shine. 

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
  • Researchers are beginning to find a strong correlation between the autism spectrum and being on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Join our panelists as they discuss topics like finding a date, discussing autism with a partner, finding their communities, and other intersections of being on multiple spectrums.

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.
  • Up to 93% of communication is non-verbal; meaning that the actual words we use are only a very small part of what we’re conveying when we interact with other people. Come learn the difference between making verbal mistakes, and making nonverbal mistakes—and how it’s usually these nonverbal errors that end up creating the misunderstandings that cost us jobs and friendships.  All four areas of nonverbal communication will be explained and illustrated, and basic systems for nonverbal success will be shared.

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, 
  • Reddit has all the answers, and this panel is like Reddit but IRL. These brave souls are some of our AutCon trailblazers, and they are willing to answer any question on any topic!
    Room 238        Create Your Own Help Kit - David Ivey "Divey"

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)
  • Ziggy’s brain is a little... different. Because of that she finds herself lost in a mysterious wood. The characters she meets, the being she talks to and the monsters she faces... are they all real? Or just another part of her interesting mind?​ 

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
  • Sarah has been navigating the world of Social Security and other government benefits for the past five years. She’s a bit of a nerd about it, and she would love to share some of her knowledge with you. She cannot give advice, but she can answer questions and share experiences that may benefit those who are on benefits, or who are considering benefits for themselves or loved ones.​


Room 280      Getting Your Novel Published- Sarah Bylund (Saturday Only)
​
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”. 
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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.

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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 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.

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.

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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. 

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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.
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. 

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

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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.

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

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.
  • ​The ScenicView Academy campus is 92% vaccinated. 
  • As per the CDC, those who have not been vaccinated should wear a face covering
  • You are welcome to wear a mask or face covering for any reason if that makes you feel more comfortable.
  • Our sessions are designed to be small to avoid sensory overstimulation, that also allows for distancing.
  • Sanitizing stations (like the one pictured) with nontoxic, antibacterial cleaner are available throughout the building should you feel the need to clean surfaces or chairs before use. 
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​AutCon welcomes everyone, regardless of disability, gender, gender identity, race, religion, or sexual orientation. 

Gender neutral restrooms are available

Sexual harassment will not be tolerated


Racist or homophobic language will not be tolerated 

Pronoun and identity buttons available in our AutShop

Refunds will not be issued to anyone in violation of these rules.

About the Event

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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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

SUPPORT THIS UNIQUE EVENT
  • 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:

Kari Bushman, Community Relations
ScenicView Academy
(801) 342-3463
karib@svacademy.org


To  become a sponsor contact:

Alex Johnson, Sponsorships
ScenicView Academy
(801) 226-2550
AlexJ@svacademy.org

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​Accreditation & Associations

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