Alumna establishes new fund to support Autism Spectrum Disorder programs at the College

SUNY New Paltz is pleased to announce the establishment of the Kressner Family Autism Spectrum Disorder Program Fund, a three-year pilot program created to benefit students as they transition into college, then to employment.

The program is funded by alumna Myra (Rosenberg) Kressner ’76 and supports students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by providing them with tools for academic and professional success. Related programs will be administered by the College’s Division of Student Affairs through the Disability Resource Center and Career Resource Center.

“Students benefit from these types of educational services when they are available,” said Kressner. “My daughter is on the Autism Spectrum and it was difficult to see her struggle to make these challenges and transitions at the college she attended. This fund will provide access to other students in similar circumstances and offer the guidance needed to find success during their college years and in preparation for completing their course work.”

A SUNY New Paltz Foundation Board director, Kressner credits her degree in education with her later success in the business world, where she has built an impressive portfolio innovating print and web-based media as a publishing and marketing executive.

“I want all students to make the most of their time at New Paltz, because once they graduate, a whole range of opportunities can come their way,” said Kressner. “This includes the students who will benefit greatly from these funds.”

The cornerstone of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Program Fund will support transitions to employment through career exploration, interviewing skills and job readiness preparation. A pilot seminar series will be launched in January 2018, and more than 40 students diagnosed on the spectrum who are already receiving accommodations through the Disability Resource Center will be invited to participate. An additional seminar series focused on building interpersonal and social skills will begin for new students in fall 2018.

“Our students and their families have expressed a need for services,” said Director of the Disability Resource Center Jean Vizvary. “We have an obligation to guide these students to realize their individual strengths and reach their true potential, and this generous gift from Myra will make a real difference in their lives and the opportunities presented to them.”

In addition to this program fund, the Disability Resource Center provides support to students with Autism Spectrum Disorders through regularly scheduled individual appointments and through workshops focusing on interpersonal and academic skills.

Learn more about the Disability Resource Center online.