The Hench Autism Studies Program
At Defiance College, we believe that understanding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is about more than just learning a new vocabulary or having a diagnostic label to explain a person. Bringing together expertise and services in an innovative way, the Hench Autism Studies Program offers programming designed to support the development of inclusive communities.
- The ASD Affinity Program
- The Hench Summer Program
- An undergraduate minor in autism studies
- Professional development opportunities
History of The Hench Autism Studies Program
As parents of a child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Eric and Deb Hench often felt frustration and isolation as they searched for suitable educational, health, and support services.
The Defiance couple worked hard to help school officials find the right classroom setting. They looked endlessly for physicians, dentists, therapists, psychiatrists, babysitters, and summer camps that were appropriate for youth on the spectrum. Sometimes, after much searching, they found what their son needed. Other times, they did not. Seeing what he called a core need in Northwest Ohio, Eric Hench said there were few services "and a huge lack of information" about ASD, including challenges with sensory processing, emotional regulation, and executive functioning.
In 2007, equipped with 19 years of first-hand experience, the Hench family sat down with Defiance College administrators to design an innovative program to address the multi-faceted needs of a growing population of individuals with autism.
CONTACT US
Hench Autism Studies Program
autism@defiance.edu
Office of Admissions
admissions@defiance.edu
Graduate Studies & Professional Development
gradstudies@defiance.edu