Jefferson Autism Center of Excellence

Dr Roseann Schaaf, Director of the JeffACE, received the Eleanor Clarke Slagle Award and Lectureship from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). The purpose is to honor a member of AOTA who has substantially contributed to the development of the profession's body of knowledge. 

Dr. Roseann Schaaf will deliver her lecture at the 2025 AOTA Conference in Philadelphia, April 3-5, 2025.

The mission of the Jefferson Autism Center of Excellence (JeffACE) is to be an international hub of Autism activities dedicated to high-impact research, forward-thinking education and training, innovative community outreach, and programs of global distinction.

Improves lives of those with Autism across the lifespan through:

• Conducting cutting edge research that informs care & improves quality of life
• Educating the next generation with evidence-based, value added clinical and research skills
• Leading community outreach to advance function and independence though:
  • Linking Jefferson with the Philadelphia and surrounding communities
  • Pioneering an interprofessional student collaboration and outreach through the Autism Advocacy Group
  • Responding to the national need for employment of autistic persons 
  • Improving access to services for autistic persons
  • Connecting with families of autistic persons to provide information and support
  •  Improving culturally inclusive practices for autistic individuals and their families from diverse backgrounds  
  • Facilitating participation in research and program development for autistic persons

Provides updates on research, news, projects and more.