A MONTH OF DISCOVERY JUNE 2025

We’re so thrilled to share that The Center for Discovery’s 2024 Annual Report is now live on our website.

Each year, we publish an Annual Report that showcases the progress we’ve made – with stories and updates from every program, milestones in research, and a year of exciting highlights. This comprehensive report is shared far and wide with potential donors, foundations, friends of The Center, and so many more.

If you haven’t already done so, we invite you to read the Annual Report here, and don’t forget to share it with your friends, family members, and anyone who might have an interest in the groundbreaking work we do here.

A recent scoping review, including authors from The Center for Discovery, Cornell College of Human Ecology, and other partners, explores how time in nature – like gardening, hiking, and outdoor play – can positively impact individuals with autism. The research highlights benefits like improved focus, reduced stress, stronger social connections, and enhanced well-being.

Read more here.

Step right up to witness an amazing Children’s Specialty Hospital carnival – hosted by our very own Clinical Behavior Analyst/Ringmaster Nelson Perez and Recreation Therapist Extraordinaire Bari Allor. Individuals at the CSH were able to enjoy many fun activities in the beautiful weather including Velcro Axe Throwing, Bucket Dunk Booth, Rubber Duck Pool, and tons of fun with friends and staff alike.

In early June, students from across all campuses at The Center for Discovery came together for a truly meaningful celebration – Prom 2025. This year, we hosted two vibrant proms to ensure that every student had the opportunity to experience this cherished tradition. For over thirty students, it was a rite of passage: dressing in their finest suits and gowns, celebrating alongside peers, and dancing into the evening.

From the first song to the last, the dance floors were filled with joy. Students arrived glowing with pride – looking their best, ready to move, sing, and simply enjoy the moment. With the support of families and dedicated staff, the night was made even more special. Every student was seen, supported, and celebrated.

Prom is more than an event – it is a reflection of the strength, individuality, and community we nurture every day. It was a night where joy came naturally, connections ran deep, and memories were made that will last for years to come.

Here’s to the students who continue to inspire us – and to the community that makes moments like these possible.

Pictured from left to right: Dr. Terry Hamlin, Natalie Knight, Elesia Madden, Donna Mapp, Maureen Ferguson, Cindy Boothe, Alyce Sherwood

As summer kicked right off, our newest clinicians in Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy hit the road for an inside look at the programs, people, and places that make up the broader TCFD community.

The Explore Tour gave them a chance to visit a variety of locations across The Center. The tour was more than just a walk-through – it was a chance to see The Center’s mission in motion. By connecting with teams across departments and learning how each program plays a part in our continuum of care, clinicians gained valuable insight into the collaborative, full-circle approach that defines our work.