A comprehensive approach for supporting college students with autism spectrum disorder

Female student with long, brown hair and glasses smiling at the cameraDefiance College's ASD Affinity Program accepts academically-qualified college applicants who might require help in navigating the traditional college residential campus. Varying levels of academic, social, and residential support assist students in personal growth and in meeting their professional goals.

The program fosters independence for young adults with autism by providing a residential campus experience with numerous services in place to maximize opportunities for success and entry into the workforce. Participating students receive campus housing with support from trained resident advisors and peer interventionists.


NEWS


OUR STAFF

Clarissa Barnes, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Associate Professor of Special Education
Director of Hench Autism Studies Program
Phone: 419-783-2355
cbarnes@defiance.edu

PEER INTERVENTIONISTS
Each student in the ASD Affinity Program has 1-3 peer interventionists. Peer interventionists are DC undergraduates who have been selected to work for the ASD Affinity Program based on faculty and staff recommendation. All peer interventionists are trained and supervised by the program coordinator.