
The Hussman Institute for Autism
Our primary research efforts focus on individuals with autism having limited or minimally-verbal communication; behavioral, sensory and motor challenges; and the need for significant day-to-day support. At the core of the Institute is a focus on the strengths, value and potential of individuals with autism, a presumption that they have competence, and a commitment to finding ways to help them develop and demonstrate these abilities.
Our perspective is not that autism is a tragedy that must be eliminated with a cure, nor that those with autism must be turned over to be “fixed” by therapists in segregated settings. Rather, our goal is to provide research and resources to support those with autism within their homes, schools and communities and to enable learning, communication, and meaningful relationships through day-to-day engagement with those around them.
“Our perspective is not that autism is a tragedy that must be eliminated with a cure, nor that the those with autism must be turned over to be 'fixed' by therapists in segregated settings. Rather, our goal is to provide research and resources to support those with autism within their homes, schools and communities; to enable learning, communication, and meaningful relationships through day-to-day engagement with those around them.”
Our Principles and Core Values

“Autism awareness can’t stop with a list of what makes people with autism different from us. Because what is essential is the constant awareness of what makes us the same.”
"In the end, the best argument for inclusion is the simplest. It’s the one we know by heart – that all of us are created equal.”
Structure
The Hussman Institute for Autism is a 501(c)(3) public charity incorporated as an independent nonprofit organization in Maryland. The Institute is located adjacent to the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) campus, with neuroscience laboratories located adjacent to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
The Institute has been funded with a major commitment from Dr. John P. Hussman and the Hussman Foundation, with the expectation of additional funding from research grants and public support.


The Institute will provide an active seminar series in-house, as well as access to nationally recognized experts, in its efforts to focus on high‐quality research, evidence-based practice, and the importance of including the voices of those on the autism spectrum.
The Institute expects to develop model programs and best‐practices by working with individual families, through research set within inclusive on-site classrooms, and through collaborative efforts with public school systems. The Institute does not envision offering medically-related clinical care to individuals with autism or other conditions.