Autism Advocate Temple Grandin, Ph.D., to Give Lecture at Kean University

Renowned autism advocate and animal scientist Temple Grandin, Ph.D., will share her insights on autism and education on December 5 in the Kean University President’s Distinguished Lecture Series. 

The lecture, entitled The World Needs All Kinds of Minds, is open to the public. It will take place at 4:30 p.m. at North Avenue Academic Building on Kean’s Union campus.  

Grandin, a professor of animal science at Colorado State University and the author of numerous books, is known both for her work in animal welfare, especially with cattle, and her leadership in the autism community. 

“Temple Grandin is a leading voice in science and autism advocacy, and she brings a powerful perspective that aligns with Kean University’s core values of diversity and inclusion,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “Her insights will enrich our community and inspire us to embrace new ways of thinking. This lecture represents an exceptional opportunity for learning and growth for all of us.” 

The Temple Grandin lecture is made possible through the generosity of Kean alumna Marjorie Slass ’13 M.A., ’16 Psy.D., and her husband Jonathan Slass. 

Grandin was diagnosed with autism as a young child and learned to speak at age 4 through the benefit of education, speech therapy and encouragement. She is a well-known advocate for people with autism. 

The President’s Distinguished Lecture Series brings speakers to campus to share their insights and vision as part of the University’s role as an anchor institution and research leader.  

The moderator for the distinguished lecture will be James F. Konopack, Ph.D., dean of Kean’s College of Health Professions and Human Services. 

“Dr. Temple Grandin is the world's most recognized autism spokesperson, author and neurodiversity advocate,” Konopack said. “Hosting her at Kean University is exciting not just for members of the Kean community but for the public, who can hear and meet a truly remarkable thought leader.” 

Kean faculty and students are committed to autism and neurodiversity-related work through the Kean Occupational Therapy Community Cares Clinic; the Center for Communication Disorders; and Kean Psychological Services, which is home to the Center for Autism and Assessment Research Services.  

Kean’s President’s Distinguished Lecture events are accessible to all individuals. Kean provides ASL interpreters, Assisted Listening Devices, wheelchair-accessible seating and entrances, and sensory bags. 

Additionally, the Grandin lecture will feature C.A.R.T. Services (real-time captioning); neurodivergent seating with spaced-out options; house lights at 50%; lowered audio levels for a more comfortable auditory experience; and a quiet room for those needing a break from the event environment. Guests with sensory needs are welcome to stand, walk around or exit and re-enter the event as needed to maintain comfort. 

Tickets for the lecture are free for Kean students, faculty and staff, but there is a limit of one ticket per person. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Tickets are $20 for Kean alumni and the public. Learn more and purchase tickets at the President’s Distinguished Lecture Series webpage. 

Other events in the President’s Distinguished Lecture Series this academic year include appearances by actor Giancarlo Esposito on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, and technology journalist Kara Swisher on Monday, April 28, 2025.