The Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support turned 15 in October. Since its founding, Kinney has launched countless programs, created brick-and-mortar inclusive spaces, forged national partnerships and established itself as a trailblazer in autism awareness, education and support.
Over the last decade and a half, Kinney has been recognized as a model for best practices in supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and producing research and training aimed at changing the way the world interacts with and supports autistic people. Now, with a newly appointed executive director and a standalone center scheduled for construction, Kinney is prepared to continue and expand upon its legacy.
The Kinney Center opens with a founding gift from Paul, BS ’70, H ’16, and Margaret Hondros, H ’16.
The first Camp Kinney is held during the summer to provide an immersive and recreation-based, traditional summer camp experience for individuals with autism.
Kinney launches its SCHOLARS program, training undergraduate students to be leaders in the field of autism.
Enrollment for transitional programs, including social skills, cooking and baking, sports and athletics, and preparation for adult life, opens to youth and adults alike.
Three students enroll in ASPIRE and launch the program for college students with ASD into existence.
Kinney hosts its first annual Kinney 5K, where participants are encouraged to walk or run to raise money for the center’s programs and services.
Kinney holds its inaugural Annual Luncheon, a fundraiser to support Kinney programs and services, featuring a keynote by Margaret Hondros, H ’16.
SJU unveils an autism break room to support sports fans, which remains available to clients and community members during games in Hagan Arena.
Bridget Cichon, BA ‘20, is the first student to enroll in SJU’s new partnership program with Jefferson, which trains physicians to work with individuals on the spectrum.
Saint Joseph’s launches a new neurodiversity at work minor as organizations increasingly seek to hire neurodiverse candidates.
The Kinney Center expands its commitment to college students with ASD by offering an on-campus residence that builds community and provides increased support.
Kinney’s Practical Assessment Exploration System (PAES) Lab opens with a $25K gift from the Eagles Autism Foundation.
Alumnus Daniel J. Hilferty, BS ’78, H ’16, and his wife Joan Pilot Hilferty give a $2 million gift in support of Kinney.
Saint Joseph’s Saxbys location teams up with Kinney’s ASPIRE program to expand employment opportunities for students on the spectrum.
Kinney Center researchers work with young adults on the spectrum to explore and improve dating experiences.
Kinney graduates its 500th SCHOLAR.
Physics major Fox Ryker, BA ’22, is the first ASPIRE student to attend medical school at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Luca Toth, BS ‘24, is the first ASPIRE student to graduate into full-time employment at Philadelphia Insurance.
Meredith Robertson, BA ’25, delves into research on how providers can successfully treat co-occurring disorders in people with autism.
Voith and Mactavish Architects produce renderings of a new, standalone Kinney Center. Construction is scheduled to begin when fundraising is complete.