Alex Cohen

Autism Light #406 is Alex Cohen.

Alex Cohen is an autism sister and is from Bayside, Wisconsin. Her older brother Aaron Cohen has autism. Alex Cohen played college basketball for four years at Northwestern University. Alex Cohen is an Autism Light for the work she did in the leadership of the Autism Speaks U chapter at Northwestern University from 2012-2015.

The following is a video done on Alex Cohen as one of the Faces of the Big Ten.

Northwestern University Basketball: While playing college basketball at Northwestern University, Alex Cohen played for Coach Joe McKeown, who was Autism Light #382. Alex scored 646 points in her career at Northwestern University and made almost 40% of her three point shots. Her statistics for her career are on her page on the NUSports webpage. She also earned All Big Ten Academic Honors in the Winter 2015.

Alex Cohen of @nuwbball earned 2015 Winter Academic-All B1G honors as well as 2015 WBCA Good Works Team Selection. pic.twitter.com/GMGg1mU4dx

— B1G Women's Hoops (@B1Gwbball) April 3, 2015

Autism Speaks U: Alex Cohen served as the President of Autism Speaks U at Northwestern University from 2012-2014. In her senior year (2014-2015) she transitioned to the Vice-President and created and led an initiative for autism awareness and fundraising called NU Goes Blue.

"Most of the events we've coordinated through Autism Speaks U have been geared specifically toward Northwestern students," said Cohen. "I really wanted to create something that the surrounding community could be involved in as well. When I thought of the idea for NU Goes Blue, one of my main goals was raise autism awareness beyond Northwestern's campus and into the Evanston and Chicagoland communities. We're bringing everyone together for a fun evening that supports a great cause (NU Sports.com, September 29, 2014)."

Alex Cohen's work for Autism Speaks U earned her a spot on the 2015 All State Good Works Team. Here is a video of her selection.

Future Plans: Alex Cohen graduated in 2015 with a degree from Northwestern University in Human Development and Psychological Services. Alex Cohen hopes to continue her basketball career in a professional international league. She plans to use her education to work with individuals with autism after she finishes her professional basketball career.

Special thanks to Alex Cohen for being an Autism Light. We wish her all the best in her professional basketball career and in her future work as an autism advocate. Alex is representative of the growing number of autism siblings who are poised to make a difference in the world for their relatives and for all those impacted by autism.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Jason Allison

Autism Light #383 is Jason Allison. 

Jason Allison is the assistant coach for the men's basketball team at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. He was born on July 23, 1976.  Jason is married to Hope (McLaughlin) Allison. Jason Allison is an autism father. His 8 year old soon Riley and 6 year old son Ryder both have autism. Jason Allison is an Autism Light for his advocacy for autism as an assistant basketball coach.

Jason Allison earned his B.A. in Physical Education from Liberty University in 1999. He played basketball at Liberty University from 1995-1998. Jason Allison was hired by Appalachian State University to be the Assistant Coach in 2014. He served from 2005-2014 as the Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Virginia Military Institute. You can read the complete details about Jason Allison's experience at the Appalachian State Athletics Website.

Here is a video about the journey of Jason Allison's family in the world of autism that was used by the Appalachian State Men's Basketball program to promote their Autism Awareness Game against Troy on February 7, 2015.



Top Fundraiser in Coaches Powering Forward for Autism: Coaches Powering Forward for Autism partners with Autism Speaks and funds raised benefit the work of Autism Speaks. Appalachian State University participated in the campaign in their game against Troy on February 7, 2015. Thanks in part to Jason and Hope Allison's passion for autism, Jason's head coach Jim Fox was the top fundraiser on the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign for 2015. As of March 28, 2015, Jason Allison had raised $2,457 of the $3,799 raised for autism on behalf of the Appalachian State University Basketball Team.

Jason Allison described part of the autism awareness that arises from the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign that doesn't involve the fundraising. "We wear pins on our suits and it catches people's attention. It's something the rest of America has the opportunity to look at, ask questions, research and learn about. It is one of the better ways that we can draw attention to this on going process (As Quoted by Kayla May, The Appalachian, February 10, 2015)."

Building Autism Awareness for College Students:  Jason Allison said, "[Autism affects] one in 68 children now and the number is increasing. The student body will come in contact with autism at some point in their life, whether it's a family member or their own children. If it's something they can learn about now they can be aware of it. It won't hit them blind like it did me and my wife (As Quoted by Kayla May, The Appalachian, February 10, 2015)."

Social Media:  You can follow Jason Allison on Twitter@JAllison10.

'Autism Awareness in College Hoops' is this weekend. Thx to @CoachPatSkerry for bringing attention to it. My boys! pic.twitter.com/HMl47NpjYU — Jason Allison (@JAllison10) January 31, 2014

Special thanks to Jason Allison for being an Autism Light. His dedication as a father of two boys with autism is an example to other fathers. The way in which he uses his position as an assistant coach to raise autism awareness is a light for the autism community. We wish Jason Allison continued success as an autism father and coach.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Joe McKeown

Autism Light #382 is Joe McKeown.

Joe McKeown is the coach of the women's basketball team at Northwestern University near Chicago, Illinois. He was born on May 12, 1956. Joe McKeown is also an Autism Father. His 20 year old son Joey has autism. Joe McKeown is an Autism Light in part for how he uses his position as the coach of a Division I NCAA basketball program to spread autism awareness. But ultimately Joe is an Autism Light because of his dedication to place his role as an autism father above his coaching career.

Joe McKeown has been a women's basketball coach since 1986. In June, 2008, Joe McKeown unexpectedly left his highly successful position as the women's basketball coach at George Washington University to take over as the coach for a struggling Northwestern program. His move was not to advance his career, but it was for his son Joey to have better educational opportunities available him in the Chicagoland area.

Those closest to McKeown knew his decision to take over Northwestern's long-struggling program had nothing to do with basketball. McKeown was leaving because his high school-bound son, Joey, had been diagnosed with autism and educational resources were lacking in Northern Virginia (The Washington Post, Gene Wang, February 28, 2015).

Being a coach in a rebuilding program is a challenge. After several average years at Northwestern, coach Joe McKeown had a breakthrough year in the 2014-2015 season where his team won 23 games and they were selected for a birth in the Women's NCAA Tournament, losing in the first round to Arkansas. During this season he passed 600 wins in his coaching career. Here is a video congratulating Joe McKeown on the milestone of 600 wins.

Autism Awareness:  In 2008, Joe McKeown brought a case to Congress to battle for autism awareness. Although he lost that fight with the government he was determined after that to do what he could to raise awareness as a coach (Northwestern Wears Blue for Autism, Chicago Talks, May 12, 2014).  Kaitlyn Cubacub wrote about the autism awareness legacy that Coach Joe McKeown brought with him to Northwestern in 2008,

This was wear Northwestern sports made their turnaround. The women's basketball team changed their game plan, it wasn't so much about winning anymore, it was deeper than a victory. Their mission now was to create autism awareness at every game they could. Whether it be wearing autism awareness pins or holding fundraisers throughout the season, the team made sure that every opportunity didn't go untouched (Kaitlyn Cubacub, Northwestern Wears Blue for Autism, Chicago Talks, May 12, 2014)

Under Coach Joe McKeown's leadership, the Northwestern University Women's Basketball Team has an annual Autism Awareness Game. During this home game the Northwestern fans are encouraged to wear blue for autism awareness. They also open the event to autism families in the Chicagoland to enjoy a special day with their kids in a wonderful atmosphere. In addition, the team participates with other Northwestern athletes in an annual walk for autism at Chicago's Soldier Field.

Playing Career: The Northwestern Sports website says that,

As a player, McKeown earned Junior College National Small Player of the Year honors at Mercer College in Trenton, N.J. He helped the team to a 33-1 record and a spot in the NJCAA Championship game. McKeown transferred to Kent State the following season, where was the co-captain of the Golden Flashes as a senior and earned honorable mention All-Mid-American Conference honors. His school-record 15 assists in a game still stands (Northwestern Sports, Joe McKeown Bio).

.@jasondorow writes that Joe McKeown has #Northwestern ready to compete on the big stage: http://t.co/mV65MELyov pic.twitter.com/Li2eZbtUKa
— Inside NU (@insidenu) March 3, 2015

On Dealing With Schools:  Joe McKeown said this about the difficulty faced by autism parents in educating their special needs children.

We've all fought over the years just trying to create awareness and trying to get the kids better opportunities and schools and not be pushed to the side. That's still our biggest fight. The principals and education systems. Every school you talk to is broke. Every state in the country is broke. The laws are there. It's just being able to enforce the laws and make sure these kids get the money that's supposed to be allocated (Joe McKeown as Quoted by Neil Hayes, November 23, 2012).

Other Information: You can read more about Joe McKeown and his work with autism in these online news stories:

• At Northwestern, Joe McKeown Balances Family and Winning (Washington Post, February 28, 2015)
• Northwestern Wears Blue for Autism (Chicago Talks, May 12, 2014)
• Women's Basketball to Host Autism Awareness Game (Inside Northwestern Sports, November 23, 2012)
• Coach, Family Find Right Fit at NU (ESPN.com, February 2, 2011)

Wikipedia: The Wikipedia Page for Joe McKeown has more information on his life and coaching career statistics.

Special thanks to Joe McKeown for spreading autism awareness.  As a legendary coach of a top team in the nation he has a remarkable opportunity to raise autism awareness. His dedication as an autism father is an example to others who have children with autism. We wish Joe McKeown continued success as an autism father and coach.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Tom Herrion

Autism Light #381 is Tom Herrion.

Tom Herrion is the Assistant Coach of the men's basketball team at Georgia Tech. He was born on November 13, 1967. Tom Herrion is also an Autism Father. His 9 year old son Robert has autism. Tom Herrion is an Autism Light for his willingness to use his role as an autism father and an assistant coach of a Division I NCAA basketball program to spread autism awareness.

Basketball Career: Tom Herrion played basketball in college for Merrimack College from 1985-1986. Tom Herrion was hired by Georgia Tech Coach Brian Gregory to be his assistant coach on September 18, 2014. He has 147 career wins as a head coach at College of Charleston and Marshall University. Follow the future success of his team at the Georgia Tech Men's Basketball Page.

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism: Tom Herrion and Pat Skerry started the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign in 2014. Both coach Herrion and Skerry have sons with autism. In 2014 they presented their fellow coaches across the NCAA with the request to wear the Autism Speaks blue puzzle piece during televised games the first weekend of February. In its first year (2014), "More than 82 NCAA coaches and broadcasters took to the sidelines and airwaves throughout the weekend wearing the pin (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism partners with Autism Speaks and funds raised benefit the work of Autism Speaks. The campaign was in place in 2015 for the televised games on the weekend of February 6-8, 2015. The Coaches Powering Forward for Autism fundraising page lists the coaching leaders in this autism awareness campaign in 2015. The top 3 coaches in 2015 in fundraising for autism as of March 23, 2015 are:

1. Coach Jim Fox, Appalachian State University
2. Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Duke University
3. Coach Mike Brey, Notre Dame University

Both Duke and Notre Dame have teams that are experiencing success on the court in the 2015 NCAA Final Four Tournament as well.

Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said, "There's so many good things that have happened for these youngsters, and so to help in some way is an easy thing to do. And Tom's a great guy, and so we'll participate in that, definitely, and feel proud and honored to do it  (Atlanta Constitution, February 5, 2015).

Liz Feld, president of Autism Speaks said, "Pat (Skerry) and Tom (Herrion) are advocates in every sense of the word. Last year's campaign was a true grassroots effort, and it continues to grow under the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism banner with far more coaches and broadcasters engaged. In addition, Pat and Tom have become great ambassadors for Autism Speaks attending events across the country that demonstrate the importance of participation and volunteerism (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

Here is a video of Tom Herrion giving a speech at an Autism Speaks event.

Other Information: You can read more about Tom Herrion and his work with autism in these online news stories:

• Georgia Tech Assistant Coach Driving Autism Awareness (Atlanta Constitution, February 5, 2015)
• GT Assistant Coach Tom Herrion's Belief Helped Create this Weekend's Coaches Powering Forward for Autism (Georgia Tech Sports, February 6, 2015)
• Coach with Son on the Spectrum Raising Autism Awareness (Autism Speaks, February 6, 2015)

Wikipedia: The Wikipedia Page for Tom Herrion has more information on his life and coaching career statistics.

Social Media: You can follow Tom Herrion on Twitter at @CoachTomHerrion.

Special thanks to Tom Herrion for spreading autism awareness. His leadership in Coaches Powering Forward for Autism has indeed had an impact around the United States. We wish Tom Herrion all the best in the future as an autism father, coach, and autism advocate.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Pat Skerry

Autism Light #380 is Pat Skerry.

Pat Skerry is the head coach of the men's basketball team at Towson University in Maryland. He was born on January 21, 1970. Pat Skerry is also an Autism Father. His 5 year old son Owen has autism. Pat Skerry is an Autism Light for his willingness to use his role as an autism father and coach of a Division I NCAA basketball program to spread autism awareness.

Basketball Career: Pat Skerry played college basketball at Tufts University from 1988-1992 and set the career record for assists (634) and the season record (198) at Tufts. Pat Skerry has served as the coach of Towson University Tigers' men's basketball team since the 2011-2012 season. He has 80 career wins as a head coach, including two years coaching at Curry College. Follow the future success of his team at the Towson Athletic Website.

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism: Pat Skerry and Tom Herrion started the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign in 2014. Both coach Skerry and Herrion have sons with autism. In 2014 they presented their fellow coaches across the NCAA with the request to wear the Autism Speaks blue puzzle piece during televised games the first weekend of February. In its first year (2014), "More than 82 NCAA coaches and broadcasters took to the sidelines and airwaves throughout the weekend wearing the pin (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism partners with Autism Speaks and funds raised benefit the work of Autism Speaks. The campaign was in place in 2015 for the televised games on the weekend of February 6-8, 2015. The Coaches Powering Forward for Autism fundraising page lists the coaching leaders in this autism awareness campaign in 2015. The top 3 coaches in 2015 in fundraising for autism as of March 22, 2015 are:

1. Coach Jim Fox, Appalachian State University
2. Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Duke University
3. Coach Mike Brey, Notre Dame University

Both Duke and Notre Dame have teams that are experiencing success on the court in the 2015 NCAA Final Four Tournament as well.

Liz Feld, president of Autism Speaks said, "Pat (Skerry) and Tom (Herrion) are advocates in every sense of the word. Last year's campaign was a true grassroots effort, and it continues to grow under the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism banner with far more coaches and broadcasters engaged. In addition, Pat and Tom have become great ambassadors for Autism Speaks attending events across the country that demonstrate the importance of participation and volunteerism (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

The following is a news story on Pat Skerry's work with autism awareness at Towson University.

Other Information: You can read more about Pat Skerry and his work with autism in these online news stories:

• NCAA Basketball Coaches and Fans Team Up for Autism, January 15, 2015
• Towson University Coach Puts Spotlight on Autism, WBALTV.com, February 3, 2015
• Coach Shares Why He Wants to Spread Autism Awareness, February 4, 2015
• Towson Coach Pat Skerry Speaks About Autism, Baltimore Sun, February 6, 2015 (Video)

Wikipedia: The Wikipedia Page for Pat Skerry has more information on his life and coaching career statistics.

Social Media: You can follow Pat Skerry on Twitter at @CoachPatSkerry.

Hats off to #JMUDukes on a thrilling win and many thanks to all who came out to support #AutismAwareness @Towson_MBB
— Pat Skerry (@CoachPatSkerry) February 7, 2015

Special thanks to Pat Skerry for spreading autism awareness. His leadership in Coaches Powering Forward for Autism has indeed had an impact around the United States. We wish Pat Skerry all the best in the future as an autism father, coach, and autism advocate.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Nicholas Bennett

Autism Light #376 is Nicholas Bennett.

Nicholas "Nick" Bennett is a senior at North Hall High School in Gainesville, Georgia who has autism. Nick has served as the manager of his high school basketball team for four years from 2011-2015.  Nicholas Bennett is an Autism Light for his dedication as a student manager in basketball and for accomplishing an amazing goal with making basketball shots from half court. Because of his accomplishment in basketball shots, Nick Bennett will be added today to the Autism Light Sports Page.

As manager of the basketball team since 2011, Nick Bennett has attended hundreds of practices. He started shooting shots from half court to entertain himself at practice. He set a goal to make 1,000 half court shots. His team and coaches helped him keep track of how many he made over the years. In January 2015, Nick Bennett made his 999 shot. 

Basketball Game on January 24, 2015: During halftime of his high school basketball game on January 24, 2015, Nick Bennett made his 1,000 half court shot on the third attempt. Nick also was put in the starting lineup for the game, and made his first shot before being taken out of the game. Nick will go down in the history books at North Hall High School as the only basketball player to have a perfect career shooting percentage. 

Here is a YouTube video of the magical moment on January 24, 2015, when Nick made his 1,000 half-court basket.

Nick Bennett told the Gainesville Times after the game, "This was such an exciting experience. It felt like I was in heaven (Fox59.com, January 30, 2015)."

Here is a news story on Nick Bennett's accomplishment. 

Atlanta News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | FOX 5

Future Plans: Bill Murphy reported that, "In addition to his love of music, primarily the guitar, Nicholas has a strong desire to share his Christian faith with everyone he meets. Following graduation, [his father] Tim said his son plans to attend the Gainesville Baptist College & Seminary, an accredited ministry with the Hillcrest Baptist Church in Clermont (Bill Murphy, Gainesville Times, January 25, 2015).

Special thanks to Nicholas Bennett for being an Autism Light. Nick's success on and off the basketball court are an example to others of the amazing things that students with autism can accomplish. We wish Nick Bennett the best of success in reaching his goals in the future. May he continue to be an inspiration of an autism life well lived.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Deron and Amy Williams

Autism Lights #265 are Deron and Amy Williams. 

Deron and Amy Williams are Autism Parents from Brooklyn, New York. Their adopted son D.J. has autism. Deron Williams is an NBA All-Star who plays for the Brooklyn Nets Professional Basketball Team. Deron and Amy Williams are able to help autism families in their community through special projects associated with their Point of Hope Foundation. Deron and Amy Williams are Autism Lights because of their dedication to their son D.J. and their desire to shine a light to other families in their community who are struggling with autism.

The following was a video that Deron Williams did for NBA Cares about his passion for autism.


Deron and Amy Williams adopted their son D.J. from an agency in Utah, but their son D.J. was actually born in Brooklyn, New York at Maimonides Medical Center, the official hospital of the Brooklyn Nets. In part to provide stability for his son, Deron Williams recently signed a 5 year contract to play with the Brooklyn Nets.

Deron Williams said this about his son's diagnosis of autism.

It was tough because you start thinking. 'Is he going to have a normal life?' Is he ever going to get married? Is he going to be able to play sports?' It was sad, tough on us for a while. It's been awakening. And you have to learn to be a little bit more patient (Source).

Basketball Career: Deron Williams played college basketball for the University of Illinois. In 2005 he led Illinois to the NCAA Championship game where they finished runner-up. Deron Williams has played in the NBA for 7 seasons and is currently an All-Star Guard for the Brooklyn Nets. You can see his career stats at this link.

Here is a video of when Deron Williams set an NBA record for 9 three pointers in a half of a game on March 8, 2013 against the Washington Wizards.


Kia Community Assist Award: In November, 2012, Deron Williams won the Kia Community Assist Award (Source). He won the award "in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work (Source)."

Point of Hope Foundation: Deron and Amy Williams founded the Point of Hope Foundation in 2007. Their website says that,

Point of Hope creates opportunities to help raise funds that can directly impact the lives of children in need. The foundation has supported cancer research, children with autism, different scholarship funds, single mother organizations, Boys & Girls Club, and a number of different children organizations through grants and donations (Source).

Here is a video of the Point of Hope Foundation giving to the community.


On December 22, 2012, Deron and Amy Williams hosted a special holiday party at the Distilled in New York City to shine a light for single mothers of children with autism who were impacted by Hurricane Sandy (Source). The Point of Hope Foundation partnered with Autism Speaks in the holiday event. 30 families had their holiday brightened by this event and, "The families were also gifted with toys, some of which were featured on the Toys "R" Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids and the Ten Toys that Speak to Autism (Source)." Toys "R" Us was featured on this blog as Autism Light #8.

More Information: For more information on Deron and Amy Williams visit these Websites.

• Wikipedia - Deron Williams
• www.deronwilliams.com
• NY Daily News Article by Stefan Bondy

Social Media: You can follow Deron Williams on the following social media.

• Facebook Page
• Twitter @DeronWilliams

Special thanks to Deron and Amy Williams for the light they shine for Autism. We wish their family the best and look forward to hearing how the Point of Hope Foundation helps needy children, including some with autism, in the years ahead. Deron Williams' post at Autism Light will be linked on the Autism Light Sports Page, where he becomes the first NBA player listed who is also an autism father.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

The photo of Deron Williams is in the Creative Commons of Wikipedia.

Dave and Mindy Rice

Autism Lights #240 are Dave and Mindy Rice.

Dave and Mindy Rice are from Las Vegas, Nevada. Dave Rice is currently the head coach of the men's basketball team at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Dave and Mindy have two boys and their 9 year old son Dillon has autism. In response to the personal way in which autism has touched their lives they established the Dave Rice Foundation on February 9, 2012 (Source). Dave and Mindy Rice are Autism Lights for their work to make a difference for autism as parents and as creators of an autism foundation.

D.J. Allen, Sr., the Associate Athletic Director at UNLV said, "Anyone who has ever been involved in the life of a special needs child at any level understands the amount of love, dedication and sacrifice that goes into that child to maximize his or her potential. What Dave and Mindy have decided to do is personal. They're not doing this for sympathy. They're doing it because it's the right thing to do (Source)."

Education: Dave Rice graduated from UNLV in 1991 with a B.A. and 1993 with an MBA.

UNLV Basketball: Dave Rice was a member of the UNLV Men's Basketball team during the 1989-1990 season, when UNLV won the National Championship. After 11 years as an Assistant Coach for UNLV and one year as an Assistant Coach for Brigham Young University, Dave Rice became the head coach at UNLV on April 10, 2011. In the 2011-2012 season UNLV won 26 games and made it to the 2nd Round of the NCAA Tournament.

Dave Rice Foundation: Here is a video of Dave and Mindy Rice talking about their autism foundation.


Dave and Mindy Rice started the Dave Rice Foundation on February 9, 2012. Dave Rice serves as Chairman of the Board and Mindy Rice serves as Secretary/Treasurer of the Board.  Dave Rice said, "Shortly after we moved back to Las Vegas, we saw this as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, and to bring about attention to the needs of those who are affected by autism (Source)."

According to the Dave Rice Foundation website they are a "non-profit, tax exempt organization dedicated to the education and support of health initiatives including developmental disorders such as Autism, and other charitable causes. The Dave Rice Foundation will be partnering with the UNLV Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Dave Rice said, "The difficulty with autism is that we would go to the doctor and he would ask us what we thought. And I thought, 'Aren't you the doctor?' That was the frustrating part. And with this foundation, the education and awareness will just benefit everybody (Source)."

Fundraising Events:  On May 4, 2012, the foundation held "An Evening with Dave Rice" as it's first fundraiser (Source). On November 12, 2012, the Dave Rice Foundation held a fundraiser with the support of restaurants in Las Vegas (Source).

The following is a video of the press conference when Dave and Mindy Rice announced their foundation for autism.  
For more information on the Dave Rice Foundation visit it's website at www.davericefoundation.org or connect with them through the various methods listed on their website contact area. 
Social Media: You can follow Dave Rice and the Dave Rice Foundation at the following social media areas:

• Twittter @CoachDaveRice
• YouTube
• Wikipedia

Special thanks to Dave and Mindy Rice for starting the Dave Rice Foundation and for being inspirational  public figures who are facing the challenges of being autism parents. The autism community in Nevada is blessed to have this foundation working to make the world a better place for families with autism. There will be a link to this post placed under the "Coach's section" of the Autism Light Sports Page as well as on the Autism Light Foundations Page. 

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Anthony Ianni

Autism Light #239 is Anthony Ianni.

Anthony Ianni is from Okemos, Michigan. Anthony has autism and defied all odds by graduating last year from Michigan State University. While in college he was a member of the nationally recognized Michigan State Spartans Men's Basketball Team. Anthony Ianni has a mission to spread an anti-bullying message to people within and outside the autism community. After graduation, Anthony became the Community Relations Advocate for the Autism Alliance of Michigan. Anthony Ianni is an Autism Light for his advocacy for autism and the example he sets of the success one can have in life even though they may have autism.

Anthony Ianni's biography for the Autism Alliance of Michigan starts out with these words about his remarkable journey through his educational process while having autism.

Anthony was diagnosed with autism at 4 years of age. His parents were told by medical specialists and professionals that he would never be successful academically, that he would likely not graduate from high school much less go to college, and most likely would live in a group home in the future--and that being an athlete was out of the question. HE PROVED THEM WRONG! (Source-Autism Alliance of Michigan).

College: Anthony Ianni received his B.A. in sociology from Michigan State University in 2012.  

Autism Light asked Anthony Ianni if he had any advice for students with autism and he said, 

For kids who struggle in school and they have autism, don't ever quit or give up on yourself or your school work. I struggled a lot in school whether it was homework, quizzes, or tests I still worked very hard to get my degrees from Okemos High School and Michigan State University. If you need help ask your teachers and they will help you in every way possible. I had more than 50 teachers who taught me throughout my life and I stay in contact with basically every one of them because they mean that much to me and without them I would not be the person that I am today. They are in the schools to help you be successful and always take advantage of that. I know I did and they helped me become very successful. Most importantly though, never ever ever give up in school. If things are hard just remember that there's always somebody there to help you.

Basketball Player:  Anthony Ianni played for the Michigan State University Spartans Men's Basketball team for two seasons from 2010-2012. In 2011 he earned the Tim Bograkos Walk-On Award and in 2012 he received the MSU Unsung Player Award.  Draymond Green, a college teammate of Anthony's who now plays in the NBA, said to Anthony, "It doesn't matter if I end up playing for Miami, Boston, Indiana, Cleveland, Detroit, or Dallas, no matter who I go up against in practice, no body will work as hard against me in practice like you did."  You can read more about Anthony's athletic career on his page at the Michigan State athletic website or his ESPN stats page. 

Autism Alliance of Michigan: Anthony Ianni works as the Community Relations Advocate for the Autism Alliance of Michigan. Anthony Ianni described his goals in life this way, "I want to make a difference in people’s lives, and I want to be able to be that hope and inspiration that people can look at, not just around the state but the nation as well (Source)." One of his roles is to share an anti-bullying message, especially how it relates to bullying towards the autism community. 

Anthony Ianni gave this quote to Autism Light on bullying:

Be careful what you say or do to others because they could be the next President of the U.S.A., a great movie star, or maybe the next Lebron James. If you see something, please say something because you can help prevent the bullying from happening and you could also not only change a person's life but possibly save one. Remember we are all different in many ways, but in the end we are all the same because we are created equally and we ARE all people.

Here is a small segment of Anthony Ianni presenting his anti-bullying message for Howell Public Schools in Michigan. 

To schedule Anthony for your event contact info@autismallianceofmichigan.org. 

Governor's Michigan Autism Council: When Michigan Governor Rick Snyder established the Autism Council in 2012, Anthony Ianni was appointed to join the 12 member council as a representative of the Autism Spectrum Disorder community (Source). 

Autism Light asked Anthony Ianni if he had any encouragement for the autism community and he said,

People ask me all the time if there were days when I wanted to roll over and quit either because things were getting too hard, people always picking on me when I was younger, or if me having Autism was too much. Every time I heard people telling me I can't do something or I wouldn't be successful, I would take that negative energy and I would feed off of it. So I was too busy and very focused on accomplishing the things I wanted to do. Not to mention the words Never or Can't were apart of my vocabulary. I would never use my Autism as a crutch in my life. It's just something I was proudly born with and using excuses are not good things for people to use or say. If you have dreams or goals you want to achieve in life. Go for them, you may have people telling you that you can't, won't, never be good at anything in life. But all you need is motivation, support from great friends and family, and to work hard you'll get to your goals and dream. Reach for the stars because they're not hard to reach for. I've reached and touch the stars many many times in my life and I'm not done reaching for more stars in my life.

Here are some news articles written on Anthony Ianni's success.

• Anthony Ianni Overcomes Odds to Standout at Michigan State (MLive)
• Former Athlete Helps Others With Autism (State News)
• MSU Alum a Champion for Autism 
• Former Michigan State Player Anthony Ianni Appointed by Governor to Serve on Autism Council

Special thanks to Anthony Ianni and all he is doing for autism in Michigan. We believe that with his continued hardwork his impact will continue to be a ever growing light for autism. Anthony Ianni's post at Autism Light will be linked to the page with all those who Have Autism and also the Autism Light Sports Page.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Alex Herrmann

Autism Light #166 is Alex Herrmann.

Well the 2012 NCAA Tournament field has been set and it's the day of the year today when people are busy filling out their brackets and many offices around the United States are getting their annual NCAA Final Four bracket pools together. For some avid sport fans today is like a holiday. If you are in need of some help on filling out your bracket this year you may want to get some pointers from today's Autism Light.

Alex Herrmann is a teenager from Chicago, Illinois who has autism. Alex Herrmann correctly picked the first 48 games (first two rounds) of the 2010 NCAA Final Four Tournament. Alex Hermann is an Autism Light for showing the world his amazing talents of analyzing college basketball.

The following is the news story about Alex Herrmann's accomplishment.

View more videos at: http://nbcchicago.com.

It should be noted that Alex filled his official bracket out online assuring the legitimacy of this accomplishment. Unfortunately in the 3rd Round (Sweet Sixteen), Alex's streak ended.  However, the odds of Alex predicting the first 48 games were 1 in 13,460,000 according to BookofOdds.com. For more information on Alex Herrmann's accomplishment in predicting the first two rounds of the 2010 NCAA Final Four tournament see the NBC Chicago article called Autistic Teen Picks First Two NCAA Rounds Perfectly. 

Special thanks to Alex Herrmann for showing an amazing talent at picking his 2010 NCAA Bracket. Your story brought awareness to autism to NCAA Basketball fans everywhere during 2010. Best wishes in your future endeavors.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Photo: The photo of a basketball in this post is in the Public Domain and was obtained from Wikipedia. 

Philadelphia 76ers

Autism Light #165 is the Philadelphia 76ers. 

The Philadelphia 76ers are a National Basketball Association franchise located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 1963 the Syracuse Nationals moved to Philadelphia and the franchise became known as the Philadelphia 76ers (they are commonly called the Sixers). The Philadelphia 76ers are an Autism Light because in September, 2011, when a 11 year old Mt. Airy boy with autism named Ojay Harris had his basketball hoop stolen, they replaced it for him.

On September 21, 2011 the Philadelphia 76ers replaced a treasured basketball hoop that was taken from a boy with autism named Ojay Harris. They also gave the boy new tennis shoes and other gifts. You can view pictures of this event on the Philadelphia 76ers Flickr Page. The news story was featured by the CBS affiliate in Philadelphia. The following is the news story on the generosity of the Philadelphia 76ers and what it meant to Ojay Harris.


Social Media:  To follow the Philadelphia 76ers on social media visit these pages.

• Facebook
• Twitter
• YouTube

For more information on the Philadelphia 76ers visit these links:

• Official NBA Website of Philadelphia 76ers
• Wikipedia Page of Philadelphia 76ers

Special thanks to the Philadelphia 76ers organization for being a light to a boy with autism. This gift meant so much to his life and he and his family will always remember it.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Kendrick Brinson

Autism Light #154 is Kendrick Brinson. 

Kendrick with his lovely prom date (2011)

Kendrick Brinson is an 18 year old from Soledad, California located in Monterey, County. Kendrick has autism and demonstrated tremendous success as a student athlete in his high school career. Kendrick Brinson is an Autism Light because of the inspiration his accomplishments in high school provides to those associated with autism. His character continues to be forged in a notable way as a college student.

While Kendrick was nonverbal until the age of 7, he received intensive speech therapy that helped him.  The record of his academic achievements defy the expectations of many who knew him back when he was first diagnosed with autism at age 3. In 2011 Kendrick Brinson graduated from Soledad High School with a 3.67 GPA. In addition to participation in standard social events such as Prom, he was a critical part of his Varsity Basketball team. 

Basketball: Required by his parents to step out of his comfort zone and to take up the challenge of at least one club or sport during school, Kendrick selected basketball early on because of his interests and gifts in the sport. It's something that he is grateful he experienced, and he encourages other students with autism to "try something you've never done" while you are in school.  His record in basketball prior to his senior year is an example of discipline, growth, and achievements.

• In 5th grade he received the Male Student of the Year for his entire school district.
• In 7th grade he didn't make the basketball team, but he didn't give up on his goals.
• In 8th grade, he was on the basketball team and won the Most Improved Player.
• In 9th grade, he played center on the Freshman Basketball team and received the Coaches Award.
• In 10th grade, he moved to Monterey County, California and made the Varsity Basketball Team in his new school. He was one of only two Sophomores to make the Varsity team.
• In 11th grade, he was the starting center for the Varsity Basketball Team at Soledad High School and received the Defensive Player of the Year Award.  He was named in the Alverez Eagle Classic as the All Defensive Player. 

Senior Basketball Star: In his Senior Varsity Year in 2011, Kendrick Brinson averaged 18 points per game on offense and was was nicknamed the "BEAST" because of his tenacious defensive play. Fans use to chant "UNLEASH THE BEAST" when a tough defensive stop was needed. Kendrick received the Most Valuable Player Award that year and he was ranked #6 in the Mission Trails League. He was selected to play in the Monterey County All Star Basketball Tournament. 

Basketball's Lessons: Autism Light asked Kendrick Brinson how basketball prepared him for life and this is what he said,

I think the most important thing I learned from playing basketball, was to always try to look outside of the box in certain situations. So often, people like me, with the autism diagnosis have such difficulty looking at situations from a different/more proactive perspective. Basketball taught me that even if you feel like your loosing the battle, you've actually won the fight to overcome symptoms of your negative self. Whether you win or lose, is irrelevant...You must give everything in life--100% (Kendrick Brinson).

Shared Dreams and Feelings: Kendrick Brinson offers the following perspective on the feelings and dreams of people with autism and in doing so demonstrates that what people with autism have in common with others is greater than any differences.

I don't mind having Autism, but I do mind being singled out and defined by it. Autism doesn't define me, because I want the same things every person at my age wants, to live my life, to be understood for who I am, to find love, have a rewarding career, and continue to do the best I can. Every person on this earth has something great to contribute. I'm no exception. People with autism are just like you. We want to be included, we want to know you get why we react to certain things, either good or bad, we want you to know we aren't stupid...We think differently but most of the times arrive at the same answer. Take the time to learn and educate yourselves. Trust me, it would make us ALL happier! (Kendrick Brinson).

Parents: Much of Kendrick Brinson's success is because of his parents involvement in his life. His mother Andria Brinson is a full-time autism advocate. You can read about her work at this news story by the Soledad Bee. Kendrick Brinson said, "I personally think that what made me so very successful in school was my mother and fathers ability to advocate for me, their continual support, and my innate drive to overcome my Autism obstacle."

College: Today Kendrick Brinson attends San Jose State University, where he is majoring in Accounting with an interest in Global Finance. He also has had the opportunity after high school to experience the thrill of working (and paying taxes).

Special thanks to Kendrick Brinson for being a light that other students with autism can follow. Kendrick has shown that significant achievements in academics, athletics, and social activities can be obtained by people with autism.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Photo: The photo in this post is used with permission of Andria Brinson.

Jason McElwain and Coach Jim Johnson

Autism Lights #150 are Jason McElwain and Coach Jim Johnson.

It's difficult to think of an event from years ago still being talked about on social media?  But search the name "Jason McElwain" on Twitter or Google+, especially this time of the year, and your likely to experience some shares, tears, and smiles about an event that happened in 2006. Jason McElwain is a graduate of Greece-Athena High School in Rochester, New York and Jim Johnson is the Varsity Boy's Basketball Coach for Greece-Athena High School. Jason McElwain, who has autism, and his Coach Jim Johnson are Autism Lights for bringing hope to the autism community. What started with an amazing 4 minutes at the end of a basketball game continues today as they shine a light for hope both on and off the court.

On February 15, 2006, with the game's outcome no longer in doubt, Coach Jim Johnson sent his high school basketball manager, Jason McElwain (J-Mac), in to play the final four minutes of the senior night game. What happened next would be an amazing feat for the most veteran player, but considering Jason McElwain has autism and was coming in cold off the bench to play his first ever minutes of competitive high school basketball, it is considered truly a miracle.   In just four minutes of game time, Jason McElwain dramatically scored six three-pointers and one two-pointer to score 20 points in the game and end up being the high scorer of the game. This event raised awareness for the capabilities of people with autism and inspired countless numbers of parents and people with autism to strive to reach their dreams. Embed here is one of the many news stories on J-Mac's game. This one was shared at the 2006 NBA Finals. The video shows how Jason McElwain's accomplishment gave hope to Terry and Kerri Connolly, whose son Eric has autism.

Honors: 

• The performance of Jason McElwain in this basketball game quickly made him a household name. Jason McElwain was listed #8 on the toptenz.net Top Ten list of people known to have autism (Source).
• Jason McElwain won a 2006 ESPY Award for the Best Moment in Sports that year.

Here is a news story recorded a year ago for the 5th anniversary of Jason McElwain's historic game that reveals how time has afforded both J-Mac and Coach Jim Johnson opportunities to continue to reach for their dreams.




Coach Jim Johnson Today: Coach Jim Johnson continues to coach the Boy's Varsity Basketball Team at Greece-Athena High School in Rochester, New York. He has been on the sidelines for 25 years and has over 335 wins. A complete biography is available at this link.  Jim Johnson also has become a published author and is a widely used professional speaker. His services have been utilized by corporations, educational institutions, religious institutions, and diverse organizations as a motivational trainer and speaker.  You may visit  his website to find out how you can book Coach Jim Johnson to fill your need for a great speaker. Coach Johnson will talk about the miracle of coaching Jason McElwain and also has other stories stemming from a career of 25 years of coaching young men in the game of basketball and life. His motto in his speaking is "Dreams Really Do Come True."

In 2011 Coach Jim Johnson published his book "A Coach and a Miracle" that talks about the Life Lessons that he learned by believing in an autistic boy named Jason McElwain. You may purchase the book at this website or click on the book to purchase it.

Jason McElwain Today: Today Jason McElwain works two jobs and when he has opportunity to speaks utilizes the motto: "Sometimes Dreams Do Come True".  J-Mac is also a volunteer assistant basketball coach for the Junior Varsity team at Greece-Athena High School, where he continues to work with Coach Jim Johnson. Several follow up articles have been written on Jason McElwain over the years, including Linder on Preps in 2007 and a Clay Travis article in 2009. Jason McElwain's dream is to become a college basketball coach.

Movie: The rights were sold long ago to make a movie on the life story of Jason McElwain, but there is no timetable for its production. Magic Johnson is going to be a co-producer of the film. Maybe they can get Kevin Costner to play Coach Jim Johnson and Luke Schroeder to play Jason McElwain.

Social Media: Jason McElwain has a Wikipedia page you can visit and also has a Facebook page.

Special thanks to Jason McElwain and Coach Jim Johnson for bringing a moment in sports that we can replay over and over whenever we need to find our dreams again. I think the reason this story has touched so many people's lives is that parents are often told to give up on their dreams when they have a child with autism. Jason McElwain's story reminds us that dreams for our children with autism don't have to end even if the take a different road. Those dreams may still be reached in a manner that goes beyond our wildest imaginations.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Photo: The photos in this post are used with permission of Jim Johnson.

Jim Calhoun

Autism Light #105 is Jim Calhoun.

Jim Calhoun is the former Men's Head Basketball Coach for the University of Connecticut who retired in September, 2012. He lives in Connecticut and has two grandchildren with autism. Jim Calhoun is an Autism Light because he has become a spokesperson for autism awareness.

Jim Calhoun has over 850 wins in college basketball. In 2005 he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. On April 4, 2011 he won his third National Championship as a coach with the University of Connecticut. The others came in 1999 and 2004. This third championship puts him in a group with only four other coaches in history who have accomplished this feat.

Jim Calhoun's granddaughter Reese and grandson Sam have autism. In honor of his two special needs grandchildren he has in recent years become a spokesperson for autism awareness. He won the 2010 Distinguished Public Service Award from the Connecticut Bar Association (Source).

The following is the video where Jim Calhoun is speaking at the Connecticut state capital for Autism Awareness Day in 2008.

Jim Calhoun wears an autism awareness lapel pin every day to help him advocate.  Jim Calhoun said regarding the pin, "Everybody asks me what the pin is for, and they get half an hour. If they don't like it they get an hour (Source)."

Jim Calhoun began raising awareness for autism research through Autism Speaks in 2006. In 2011 he produced the following Public Service Announcement for Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

Some online articles on Jim Calhoun's activism for autism can be found a these links.

• NBC Sports (2007)
• Jim Calhoun's Wikipedia Page

Social Media: You can follow Jim Calhoun a the following social media areas.

• Facebook

For more information on Jim Calhoun visit his official website at www.coachjimcalhoun.com.

Special thanks to Jim Calhoun for spreading autism awareness and being a light for autism. He has continued to fight for autism despite himself having cancer in both 2003 and 2008 as well as another undisclosed health problem in 2010.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

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Photo: The photo in the post is in the Public Domain and was obtained from Wikipedia.

This Autism Light post went into syndication on Autisable.