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Gov. Chris Christie has named four new members to the Governor’s Council for Medical Research and Treatment of Autism.
The council is mandated to coordinate research and apply and advance the best ways to understand, prevent and treat autism, and attempt to enhance the lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Additionally, the council has awarded $5 million in basic science research grants to study the causes, triggers and treatment of ASDs. The council's membership is made up of representatives from academic institutions, autism and healthcare organizations and includes individuals with autism, or family members.
“New Jersey will continue to lead the nation and serve as an example of how the public and private sectors can work together to assist individuals and families affected by autism,” Christie said. “The First Lady (Mary Pat Christie) and I have worked together to highlight the resources available throughout the state for families, and the Governor’s Council for Medical Research and Treatment of Autism will continue to play an important role in autism awareness.
“Each of these nominees brings a wealth of experience from within the health, direct service and advocacy communities, and will be an invaluable resource,” the governor said. "I’d like to thank each of the new members for their willingness to serve and ensure New Jersey remains a leader in autism awareness.”
Named to the council by Christie’s were BrosUnitedD Mentorship Program co-founder and Program Director Matthew P. Cortland of Marlton, retired superintendent of the Atlantic County Special Services School District Barbara J. Morvay of Northfield, Parents Of Autistic Children Director Gary Weitzen of Lakewood, and Bancroft Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Caroline Eggerding of Haddonfield.Each council member will serve a three-year term without compensation. The appointments do not require the consent of the state Senate.
Autism is a spectrum of disorders that is complex and lifelong. According to the Centers for Disease Control, nationwide, it is estimated that autism occurs in 1 out of every 110 births while in New Jersey, the prevalence rate is reported to be 1 in 94. Most often diagnosed during the first three years of life, autism is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls and affects families of all races, ethnicities and socio-economic groups.
Autism awareness is an advocacy area embraced by Mary Pat Christie in an effort to bring greater understanding of the developmental disability. In March, the Christies convened a roundtable discussion in Princeton with parents of children with autism and educators.
—TOM HESTER SR., NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM
