Even after retiring from Yale University following a distinguished 44-year career, renowned autism researcher Dr. Fred Volkmar is far from slowing down. Now holding Southern Connecticut State University’s only endowed chair — within the Department of Special Education — Volkmar remains deeply engaged in autism research, advocacy, and mentorship.
At Southern, he leads a unique college-readiness initiative through the university’s Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders. The program offers local autistic high school students a hands-on introduction to college life — attending classes, meeting with faculty, and building the confidence and academic skills needed to succeed in higher education. In addition to these experiences, students also participate in practical training, including traffic stop simulations developed to help young autistic adults navigate interactions with law enforcement — a critical skill for independence and employment.
“For any idea, he would ask: ‘How is this going to be beneficial for the lives of autistic people or their parents?'” a former trainee noted. Volkmar himself echoes this philosophy, saying, “We should take a step back and ask how we could give them information that would be more helpful.”
Volkmar continues to publish scholarly work and collaborate on studies designed to improve real-world outcomes for autistic individuals. His recent co-authored research on police interactions is one example of his pragmatic approach to creating safer, more inclusive communities.
🔗 Read the full profile in The Transmitter to explore Volkmar’s legacy and continued impact at Southern and beyond.
