Grandin To Speak On Developing Talents In Autistic Individuals

Abby Rauguth, Staff Writer
March 3, 2022

Dr. Temple Grandin is one of the most influential scientists in the world–and, she is autistic.

Grandin is world-famous for her scientific career in animal rights. She is truly an inspiration, as she also has autism, but she is so much more: “Being a scientist comes before being autistic.” On Wednesday, April 20, Grandin will be giving the First Annual Autism Studies Lecture of 2022 at O’Laughlin Auditorium, Saint Mary’s College (Notre Dame, IN). Grandin will be drawing from her own experiences with Autism Spectrum Disorder and her own career to discuss ways to turn special talents and interests into paid work.

Dr. Grandin is a professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University, has obtained her B.A at Franklin Pierce College in 1970, earned an M.S in Animal Science at Arizona State University in 1975, and in 1989 was awarded a Ph.D in Animal Science from the University of Illinois. She has started the Livestock industry consultancy Autism rights activism, and also invented the Hug machine for cattle. This is a double rail conveyor system for bringing cattle calmly to the slaughterhouse; she created this in college, and it’s much more humane than the machines before this time.

Having Dr. Grandin give this lecture is gravely important, as she is the leader in animal behavior as well as understanding the autistic community. Ms. Brenda Mueller, EHS’s animal science teacher, explains how being able to meet and hear Grandin speak is a pivotal role for agriscience and her role as a teacher. Mueller explains it this way: “Our community here in Northern Indiana also has a need for more support for our autistic population, and having Temple Grandin here will help drive more support and programming.” So, not only will this lecture help influence others, it will also inspire many. This lecture will help drive society and the economy to treat the autistic community as a regular part of society. Many people, companies included, think the autistic community doesn’t have the capability to perform tasks, when in reality, they often have a higher ability than the general population. Mueller goes on to say, “Grandin has helped and is continuing to help break down the stigma barriers toward the autistic community.”

There have been many books and articles written on the topic that Dr. Grandin has published. Her books open minds on ways to improve the lives of those with autism, and she gives insight on her personal life experiences. Mueller shares her insights after reading a couple of Grandin’s books. “There is still so much I don’t know–so many books I have yet to read. I look forward to learning more!” Temple Grandin has inspired so many people and continues to inspire others every single day. She has given Mueller a perspective of teaching that has not only helped her understand her students but her animals, as well.

I don’t want my thoughts to die with me; I want to have done something. I’m not interested in power, or piles of money. I want to leave something behind. I want to make a positive contribution – know that my life has meaning. -Temple Grandin

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