FASD United is proud to take part in the AUCD (Association of University Centers on Disabilities) conference in Washington, DC Nov. 3-6 as a member of the planning committee and an exhibitor.  The AUCD Special Interest Group (SIG) on FASD hosted a Pre Conference event in collaboration with the AUCD 2024 Conference on Saturday, November 2, 2024. 

AUCD is a national association that supports Network members in their research, training, education, and service.  The Network includes practitioners, researchers, educators, Emerging Leaders, people with disabilities, community advocates, and professionals. 

AUCD’s FASD SIG is chaired by Elizabeth Cleveland and meets to discuss FASD-related topics and how these can be considered within the disability field.  During the pre-conference, Elizabeth discussed a National Trainee Network Exchange. 

Emily Rusnak of the FASD Collaborative provided an introduction to FASD and went over the key facets of the issue.  The AUCD FASD SIG Steering Committee discussed what’s happening on the ground to build connections between AUCD and the FASD community.   

Group roundtable discussions addressed strategies and best practices for engaging FASD in the AUCD Network.  Jennifer Wisdahl, Chief Operating Officer of FASD United, gave an overview of FASD United and the Affiliate Network.  The pre-conference featured a powerful Living Experience panel, as well as a poster session with poster presentations. 

Elizabeth Cleveland, Chair of the FASD SIG, says, “Being part of the organization for the AUCD Pre-Conference on FASD has been a pleasure. This event is a great example of how dedicated AUCD is to spreading awareness and education for FASD around the network. Not only have they given FASD a seat at the table, AUCD has made FASD the guest of honor. I feel very lucky to have gotten the opportunity to plan this pivotal event with the amazing members of the Steering Committee and the phenomenal AUCD staff. The future for FASD advocacy, research, and education is bright!”