Autism advocate to speak at TJC

TYLER — Temple Grandin, a prominent autism advocate and leader in the cattle industry, will appear at several Tyler Junior College events this month. Grandin is widely known for her work in animal welfare and autism awareness. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, she was diagnosed with autism at age 2. She experienced challenges with speech and social interaction early in life but developed a strong interest in reducing stress in livestock. Her ideas were initially met with skepticism in the cattle industry, but they later transformed cattle handling and housing practices across the United States. Grandin went on to become an influential voice in autism advocacy.

Her life and work inspired the 2010 biographical film Temple Grandin.

TJC’s events begin Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m. with Grandin’s lecture, “The Importance of Good Stockmanship,” which will focus on animal behavior and insights drawn from her decades of industry-changing work.

On Feb. 21, TJC will host “Pathways to Potential: An Autism Symposium” from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include Grandin’s keynote address, “Great Minds Are Not the Same,” along with interactive sessions for youth and young adults with autism. Additional sessions for parents, caregivers and educators will offer resources from diagnosis through adulthood.

The day will conclude with Elijah’s Retreat’s Boots & Bling Gala from 6 to 9 p.m. at the W.T. Brookshire Conference Center. The event will honor Grandin, celebrate families affected by autism and feature live music performances by artists on the autism spectrum.

For more information on tickets and availability, visit Elijahsretreat.com.