Inspiring Future Success! 2026 Day of Learning Series - October 17, 2026
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Register now for our Final 2026 Arizona Autism Day of Learning Series event on Saturday, October 17th in Phoenix! Join us for information sharing and networking for professionals, families, self advocates or anyone supporting individuals with Autism and Neurodivergent conditions.
📅 Saturday, July 18, 2026
⌚ 8AM - 3PM
📍 Desert Willow Conference Center in Phoenix
EACH DAY OF LEARNING INCLUDES:
👉 10 Informative Sessions with Expert Speakers
👉 Continental Breakfast, Hot Lunch Buffet, All Day Beverages & Snack Breaks
👉 Continuing Education Certificates
👉 Sponsor & Exhibitor Resource Fair
👉 Complimentary Parking
👉 Affordable Pricing - Thanks to Generous Sponsors!
💲 $30 for AAC Members // $60 for Non-Members
💲 Scholarships Available at https://azautism.wufoo.com/forms/melzhcd0mtjnjl/
▶️ Register now at https://arizonaautismcoalition.wildapricot.org/event-6807066
▶️ Learn more at https://dayoflearning.azautism.org/
𝙎𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙙𝙚:
THE BRIDGE TO INDEPENDENCE: PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE WORKING WORLD
Cheryl Maltese, Autism Academy for Education & Development
Deep dive into AAED's B.R.I.D.G.E. program's approach to vocational skill development, including job shadowing, work simulation, and employer partnerships. Also discussing our umbrella company, FMG's approach to combating high unemployment rates in the autism community through places like Crave Protein Cafe and The Olive Branch Boutique.
BETTER CONTEXT, BETTER OUTCOMES: ABA FOR SUPPORTING SDOH AND QUALITY OF LIFE
Alan Haberman, BCBA, LBA, S.E.E.K. Arizona
Social determinants of health (SDOH) and quality of life (QoL) factors are essential considerations for behavioral health providers, especially as people transition into adulthood. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be used to address these factors using existing assessment and intervention best practices to inform both direct and indirect services. Direct services may include promoting skills for self-determination; reducing environmental and social barriers through training and collaboration; and, increasing opportunities for inclusion in and access to meaningful life experiences. Indirect services may include referrals for other services; collaborating with other providers for cotreatment and coordination of care; and, engaging with training opportunities and academic literature to better individualize care.
THE ROLE OF EDUCATIONAL THERAPY
Dr. Shannon Troy, Ed.D, ET/P, Troy & Associates Educational Therapy
This presentation explores the vital role of the educational therapist as part of a collaborative support team for individuals with autism. Participants will learn how educational therapists partner with students, families, schools, and related service providers to support learning, self-advocacy, executive functioning, and educational planning. Topics include advocacy, homeschool program development, school collaboration, transition planning from elementary school through college, and fostering student independence. The presentation will also provide an overview of the Association of Educational Therapists (AET) and the professional standards that guide educational therapy practice.
DIFFERENT VOICES, DIFFERENT NEEDS: ACHIEVING NEURO-INCLUSIVITY
Faith Johnson, Arizona Achieve
This interactive presentation explores the diverse realities of neurodivergence, emphasizing that no two experiences are the same. Through the lived perspectives of three advocates: a Black, highly masking and verbal individual; a Brown, non-speaking advocate; and a white, verbal advocate, we highlight how neurodiversity presents across race, communication styles, and support needs. Attendees will gain insight into how identity and expression shape advocacy experiences, and learn practical strategies for adapting communication and support approaches. By engaging participants in discussion and reflection, this session equips attendees to advocate more inclusively, ensuring neurodivergent individuals are understood, respected, and empowered according to their unique strengths, preferences and needs.
COLLEGE SUCCESS FOR NEURODIVERGENT STUDENTS
Roxanna S. Dewey, Ed.D., Glendale Community College
This session will cover tips, tools, and strategies to support student success in college and beyond. Leave will resources you can use now.
3 WAYS SPECTRUM DISORDER AND TECHNOLOGY GET COMPLICATED
Adam Brooks, M.Ed., Bark Technologies
The integration of technology into every area of our lives has come at a cost. This is even more true for those who use or need assistive technology to operate in the world. In this session, we will explore three areas where dependency on technology can begin doing more harm than good: social connections, AI dependency, and isolation or seclusion. Together, we can help find healthy, more balanced ways for our exceptional children to utilize technology.
ARIZONA POLICY UPDATE
Jon Meyers, Executive Director, Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
Demystify fact from fiction with accurate information on disability related legislative issues and learn how they impact the DDD community. This session will touch on changes to state DDD services, including the Parents as Paid Providers program, and federal Medicaid changes, and what to watch at both the state and federal levels.
THE PEACE PATHWAY™ FOR THRIVING AND WELL-BALANCED AUTISM CAREGIVERS
Dolly Tampos Oksman, MA, MAED-SPED, CAS, Love. Heal Believe. LLC
This session introduces autism caregivers to the PEACE Pathway™, a wellness framework designed to support emotional balance, reduce daily stress, and strengthen overall well-being. Participants will explore simple practices to pause before overwhelm, build moments of calm into busy routines, reframe everyday caregiving stressors, nurture supportive connections, and create sustainable habits that promote resilience and whole-self wellness. This presentation equips caregivers with practical, real-life tools to feel more grounded, energized, and emotionally steady so they can navigate their journey with greater clarity, confidence, and peace.
PLANNING FOR THE NEXT SEASON IN LIFE: LEGAL, FINANCIAL & HEALTHCARE STRATEGIES FOR AGING ADULTS AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
Emily Taylor, Esq., Elder Law Attorney, Cynthia Macluskie, Insurance & Benefits Advocate
Planning for the future takes more than one professional. Join elder law attorney Emily Taylor and insurance and benefits advocate Cynthia Macluskie as they discuss the legal, financial, and healthcare decisions that help protect individuals and families. Learn practical strategies for estate planning, Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care, and preserving benefits so you can confidently plan for the next season of life.
BEYOND RECREATION: BUILDING INDEPENDENCE THROUGH INCLUSIVE CAMPS
Hana Alanis, Jeanne Anastasopoulos, Isabelle Aiello, Matthew Millspaugh, Civitan Foundation
Inclusive sleepaway camp is more than recreation. It provides a supportive, real-world environment for practicing choice-making, communication, self-advocacy, social connection and daily living skills. It also helps families navigate a difficult part of fostering independence: knowing when to step back. Drawing on Civitan Foundation’s nearly 60 years of experience serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, this session explores how camp allows participants to test their independence while families practice trusting their growth from a safe distance. Attendees will gain practical guidance for evaluating readiness, preparing for separation, reinforcing new skills and identifying pathways to access.
▶️ Register now at https://arizonaautismcoalition.wildapricot.org/event-6807066
▶️ Learn more at https://dayoflearning.azautism.org/
💲 Family Scholarships Available at https://azautism.wufoo.com/forms/melzhcd0mtjnjl/
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙤𝙧𝙨:
The Autism Academy for Education & Development - Series Sponsor
Mercy Care - Series Sponsor
Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. - Series Sponsor
Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center - Scholarship Sponsor
Axis for Autism - Lunch & Learn Sponsor
📅 Saturday, July 18, 2026
⌚ 8AM - 3PM
📍 Desert Willow Conference Center in Phoenix
EACH DAY OF LEARNING INCLUDES:
👉 10 Informative Sessions with Expert Speakers
👉 Continental Breakfast, Hot Lunch Buffet, All Day Beverages & Snack Breaks
👉 Continuing Education Certificates
👉 Sponsor & Exhibitor Resource Fair
👉 Complimentary Parking
👉 Affordable Pricing - Thanks to Generous Sponsors!
💲 $30 for AAC Members // $60 for Non-Members
💲 Scholarships Available at https://azautism.wufoo.com/forms/melzhcd0mtjnjl/
▶️ Register now at https://arizonaautismcoalition.wildapricot.org/event-6807066
▶️ Learn more at https://dayoflearning.azautism.org/
𝙎𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙙𝙚:
THE BRIDGE TO INDEPENDENCE: PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE WORKING WORLD
Cheryl Maltese, Autism Academy for Education & Development
Deep dive into AAED's B.R.I.D.G.E. program's approach to vocational skill development, including job shadowing, work simulation, and employer partnerships. Also discussing our umbrella company, FMG's approach to combating high unemployment rates in the autism community through places like Crave Protein Cafe and The Olive Branch Boutique.
BETTER CONTEXT, BETTER OUTCOMES: ABA FOR SUPPORTING SDOH AND QUALITY OF LIFE
Alan Haberman, BCBA, LBA, S.E.E.K. Arizona
Social determinants of health (SDOH) and quality of life (QoL) factors are essential considerations for behavioral health providers, especially as people transition into adulthood. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be used to address these factors using existing assessment and intervention best practices to inform both direct and indirect services. Direct services may include promoting skills for self-determination; reducing environmental and social barriers through training and collaboration; and, increasing opportunities for inclusion in and access to meaningful life experiences. Indirect services may include referrals for other services; collaborating with other providers for cotreatment and coordination of care; and, engaging with training opportunities and academic literature to better individualize care.
THE ROLE OF EDUCATIONAL THERAPY
Dr. Shannon Troy, Ed.D, ET/P, Troy & Associates Educational Therapy
This presentation explores the vital role of the educational therapist as part of a collaborative support team for individuals with autism. Participants will learn how educational therapists partner with students, families, schools, and related service providers to support learning, self-advocacy, executive functioning, and educational planning. Topics include advocacy, homeschool program development, school collaboration, transition planning from elementary school through college, and fostering student independence. The presentation will also provide an overview of the Association of Educational Therapists (AET) and the professional standards that guide educational therapy practice.
DIFFERENT VOICES, DIFFERENT NEEDS: ACHIEVING NEURO-INCLUSIVITY
Faith Johnson, Arizona Achieve
This interactive presentation explores the diverse realities of neurodivergence, emphasizing that no two experiences are the same. Through the lived perspectives of three advocates: a Black, highly masking and verbal individual; a Brown, non-speaking advocate; and a white, verbal advocate, we highlight how neurodiversity presents across race, communication styles, and support needs. Attendees will gain insight into how identity and expression shape advocacy experiences, and learn practical strategies for adapting communication and support approaches. By engaging participants in discussion and reflection, this session equips attendees to advocate more inclusively, ensuring neurodivergent individuals are understood, respected, and empowered according to their unique strengths, preferences and needs.
COLLEGE SUCCESS FOR NEURODIVERGENT STUDENTS
Roxanna S. Dewey, Ed.D., Glendale Community College
This session will cover tips, tools, and strategies to support student success in college and beyond. Leave will resources you can use now.
3 WAYS SPECTRUM DISORDER AND TECHNOLOGY GET COMPLICATED
Adam Brooks, M.Ed., Bark Technologies
The integration of technology into every area of our lives has come at a cost. This is even more true for those who use or need assistive technology to operate in the world. In this session, we will explore three areas where dependency on technology can begin doing more harm than good: social connections, AI dependency, and isolation or seclusion. Together, we can help find healthy, more balanced ways for our exceptional children to utilize technology.
ARIZONA POLICY UPDATE
Jon Meyers, Executive Director, Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
Demystify fact from fiction with accurate information on disability related legislative issues and learn how they impact the DDD community. This session will touch on changes to state DDD services, including the Parents as Paid Providers program, and federal Medicaid changes, and what to watch at both the state and federal levels.
THE PEACE PATHWAY™ FOR THRIVING AND WELL-BALANCED AUTISM CAREGIVERS
Dolly Tampos Oksman, MA, MAED-SPED, CAS, Love. Heal Believe. LLC
This session introduces autism caregivers to the PEACE Pathway™, a wellness framework designed to support emotional balance, reduce daily stress, and strengthen overall well-being. Participants will explore simple practices to pause before overwhelm, build moments of calm into busy routines, reframe everyday caregiving stressors, nurture supportive connections, and create sustainable habits that promote resilience and whole-self wellness. This presentation equips caregivers with practical, real-life tools to feel more grounded, energized, and emotionally steady so they can navigate their journey with greater clarity, confidence, and peace.
PLANNING FOR THE NEXT SEASON IN LIFE: LEGAL, FINANCIAL & HEALTHCARE STRATEGIES FOR AGING ADULTS AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
Emily Taylor, Esq., Elder Law Attorney, Cynthia Macluskie, Insurance & Benefits Advocate
Planning for the future takes more than one professional. Join elder law attorney Emily Taylor and insurance and benefits advocate Cynthia Macluskie as they discuss the legal, financial, and healthcare decisions that help protect individuals and families. Learn practical strategies for estate planning, Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care, and preserving benefits so you can confidently plan for the next season of life.
BEYOND RECREATION: BUILDING INDEPENDENCE THROUGH INCLUSIVE CAMPS
Hana Alanis, Jeanne Anastasopoulos, Isabelle Aiello, Matthew Millspaugh, Civitan Foundation
Inclusive sleepaway camp is more than recreation. It provides a supportive, real-world environment for practicing choice-making, communication, self-advocacy, social connection and daily living skills. It also helps families navigate a difficult part of fostering independence: knowing when to step back. Drawing on Civitan Foundation’s nearly 60 years of experience serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, this session explores how camp allows participants to test their independence while families practice trusting their growth from a safe distance. Attendees will gain practical guidance for evaluating readiness, preparing for separation, reinforcing new skills and identifying pathways to access.
▶️ Register now at https://arizonaautismcoalition.wildapricot.org/event-6807066
▶️ Learn more at https://dayoflearning.azautism.org/
💲 Family Scholarships Available at https://azautism.wufoo.com/forms/melzhcd0mtjnjl/
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙤𝙧𝙨:
The Autism Academy for Education & Development - Series Sponsor
Mercy Care - Series Sponsor
Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. - Series Sponsor
Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center - Scholarship Sponsor
Axis for Autism - Lunch & Learn Sponsor
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Where is it happening?
Desert Willow Conference Center, 4352 E Cotton Center Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85040-8852, United States
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherArizona Autism Coalition
