Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre
Official launch of the Centre
After months of planning, the launch of the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre was greeted with much excitement.
Proceedings commenced with a welcoming address by the Chancellor of La Trobe University, Mrs Sylvia Walton. The Director of the new Centre, Dr Cheryl Dissanayake then spoke of the mission and objectives for the Centre and the generosity and vision of Mrs Olga Tennison whose initial donation has been the driving force in establishing Australia’s first centre dedicated to research into Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Mrs Tennison surprised everyone on the day by matching her initial donation with another half million dollars.
Mrs Tennison (left) spoke of her reasons for wanting the Centre at La Trobe University and her desire to see research into the causes of Autism and the need for increased awareness to help people with Autism and their families. She expressed the hope that others will see her donation as an example and also adopt a philanthropic attitude towards the Centre.
Glenda Green, Maternal and Child Health nurse then spoke of her involvement in the SACS study. Ms Green spoke of the valuable resource that this study has provided in helping to identify children who are displaying characteristics of ASD from approximately 12 months. The benefit of earlier identification and diagnosis means earlier access to early intervention and other services.
Yvonne Hocking (below), a parent of a young boy with ASD who was identified within the SACS program, spoke of her initial reaction at her son's diagnosis. She now feels empowered by this knowledge and more able to help her son to learn and reach his potential. Her speech was inspiring for all present. The Hon Bill Shorten MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Services then officially launched the Centre and invited Mrs Tennison to help him unveil the banner of the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre.
Before guests dispersed to enjoy the refreshments and to take tours of the research labs, Professor Tim Brown, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) came to the podium to announce that the university would again match Mrs Tennison's second generous donation. This news was received with much applause, capping off an excellent launch.
