Utah Valley University welcomes Jane Carlson as the new director of the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism. Carlson is a veteran in the autism industry bringing 35 years of experience with her.

 

Carlson holds a Master of Psychology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook and a doctorate in clinical psychology from SUNY Stony Brook. 

 

UVU attracted Carlson from Providence, Rhode Island because of the opportunity to train professionals wanting to work in the field of autism. “I feel honored to be selected to direct the Nellesen Center for Autism,” Carlson said. “I’ve been impressed that the center has already had such a positive impact on the students at UVU and on the local autism community.”

 

The center currently offers a preschool-kindergarten class and a combined first and second grade class. These classes fall within the Alpine School District. Education coaching is also offered for young adults looking to become more independent.

 

“I look forward to continuing the mission of the Center and developing new programs, connections, and collaborations to expand the supports for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and their families, in our community and across the state,” Carlson said.

 

Undergraduate students at UVU can minor in autism studies. As part of that program students need to complete an internship which can be done right on campus at the center.

 

Carlson said, “I am passionate about training young professionals in evidence-based practices. There is a tremendous need in our field for caring compassionate professionals who can partner with individuals and their families to achieve the best possible outcomes for the individuals we serve.”

  

About Utah Valley University

 

At 37,282 students and growing, Utah Valley University is the largest public university in the state of Utah, and one of a few in the nation offering a dual-mission model that combines the rigor and richness of a first-rate teaching university with the openness and vocational programs of a community college. UVU’s unique model, which focuses on student success, engaged learning, rigorous academic programs, and faculty-mentored research, is transforming higher education by making it more affordable and accessible to students of all backgrounds.

 

University Marketing &Communications

 

Scott Trotter

801-863-6807 | [email protected]

Barb Smith

801-863-5274 | [email protected]

 

 

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