Spectrum Award Winners Spotlights: Nominations open for 2024

Since 2015, Els for Autism has awarded individuals with autism from the U.S. and Canada who have shined a positive light through their character, positive attitude, and contribution. The Els for Autism Spectrum Award winner receives an engraved award, an invitation to the Golf Challenge Grand Finale at The Breakers Palm Beach, and a nomination to sit on the Els for Autism Advisory Board.

This award highlights and celebrates the achievements of individuals who has demonstrated significant achievements in their own person context, been an inspiration to other people with autism and a catalyst for helping people with autism fulfill their potential to lead positive, productive, and rewarding lives, and is accomplished in any area of endeavor (arts, employment, community service, recreation, etc.).

Our three most recent winners continue to impact the autism community through their daily lives and are all active members of our Advisory Board (learn more). 

2023 Spectrum Award Winner: Andrew Blitman 

Andrew Blitman, the 2023 Spectrum Award winner, aspires to make the world a better place through mentoring and tutoring in subjects like math and science. In addition to leading our Moovin’ & Groovin’ Summer Camp art classes, he creates beautiful artwork.

Andrew says, “Receiving the Els for Autism Spectrum Award is my highest honor and affirmation of my accomplishments. For most of my life, I hated having autism and was afraid to discuss the diagnosis with others. What the Autism Spectrum Award did was sincerely miraculous: It led me away from those darkest feelings and insecurities that fueled anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Now, I feel a warm sense of joy knowing that my struggles can be used to help others overcome their troubles (read more).” 

2022 Spectrum Award Winners: Gyasi Burks-Abbott and Dr. Kerry Magro 

In 2022, we awarded two individuals who continue to inspire the autism community: Gyasi Burks-Abbott and Dr. Kerry Magro.

Gyasi Burks-Abbott is a public speaker and published author. As an advisor and lead self-advocate on the Executive Employment Committee of Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts (AFAM), he prioritizes legislation and policy changes that affect individuals with autism. 

Gyasi says, “I haven’t been involved with Els for Autism long, and there’s still much I need to learn about the Foundation. But I love what I’ve seen so far. As a big believer in natural supports and a whole-body approach to treatment, I appreciate the focus on sports and other extracurricular activities, as well as the health-conscious meals served at events. I also like the variety of services that address autism across the lifespan, such as the school located on campus, the onsite job opportunities, and the mock apartment for teaching independent living skills.” 

Dr. Kerry Magro is a best-selling author and award-winning national speaker. He also hosts trainings with companies titled “ROI Benefits of Hiring Talented Autistic People,” where he spreads awareness and often creates hiring opportunities for adults with autism. 

Kerry says, “Winning the Spectrum Award was an incredible honor for me. During my autism journey from non-speaking to professional speaker, it was often quite challenging. Thanks to years of occupational, physical, speech, music, and theater therapy, I was able to overcome many of my obstacles. This award recognized not only my personal journey but also my efforts to advocate for and support the autistic community. It reinforced my commitment as an autism speaker to making a positive impact and inspired me to continue my work with even greater passion and determination.” 

Els for Autism is honored to continue the tradition of recognizing individuals who shine a positive light through their character, positive attitude, and contributions. We invite you to submit your nomination for the 2024 Spectrum Award. 

Nominations close August 31, 2024 at 11:59 PM EST. Els for Autism Foundation employees and/or their immediate family members are not eligible to participate.