Conversations with Audrey Amadeo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Audrey Amadeo.

Hi Audrey, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story begins with a deep belief in the power of creativity as a bridge to inclusion. Early in my career, while working with individuals with developmental disabilities, I saw how often traditional systems—especially education—failed to recognize the strengths, talents, and voices of autistic individuals. What stood out to me most was how transformative the arts could be: art, music, and creative expression consistently opened doors where conventional approaches fell short.

That realization led me to found Arts for Autism, a foundation rooted in the idea that the arts are not simply enrichment, but a vital pathway to communication, confidence, and community. The foundation was created to provide inclusive, strengths-based opportunities for autistic individuals to express themselves, develop skills, and build meaningful connections. Founding Arts for Autism allowed me to merge advocacy, creativity, and impact into one mission-driven organization that continues to grow alongside the community it serves.

My educational journey has been instrumental in shaping this work. I earned my master’s degree in Developmental Disabilities and Applied Behavior Analysis from Nova Southeastern University, which provided a strong clinical and theoretical foundation in behavior, learning, and individualized supports. I later earned my doctorate in Educational Leadership, with a focus on Autism in Higher Education. This academic background informs every aspect of Arts for Autism, ensuring that its programs are grounded in evidence-based practice while remaining human-centered, accessible, and innovative.

In addition to my work with the foundation, I serve as the Director of Access at Miami Dade College, North Campus, where I focus on expanding inclusive practices, training faculty and staff, and improving outcomes for students with disabilities. While my work spans nonprofit leadership and higher education administration, Arts for Autism remains the heart of my journey—reflecting my commitment to creating spaces where autistic individuals are not only included, but empowered and celebrated.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Building Arts for Autism came with many of the challenges that often accompany mission-driven work, especially in spaces that are still learning how to fully value neurodiversity. One of the earliest struggles was navigating limited funding and resources while trying to grow programs responsibly and sustainably. Like many grassroots organizations, the foundation began with big vision and very little infrastructure, which required creativity, persistence, and a willingness to do multiple roles at once.

Another ongoing challenge has been shifting mindsets. Advocating for the arts as a legitimate and powerful tool for development and inclusion—rather than an “extra” or luxury—often meant pushing against traditional systems and assumptions. There were moments when the work required not just program building, but education, advocacy, and patience in helping others see the long-term impact of inclusive, strengths-based approaches.

Balancing leadership across nonprofit work and higher education has also required intentional boundaries and constant reflection. However, those challenges ultimately strengthened the foundation and my leadership. Each obstacle clarified the mission, sharpened the focus, and reinforced the importance of staying grounded in purpose. The road hasn’t been easy, but it has been deeply meaningful—and every challenge has contributed to the impact Arts for Autism continues to make today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At the core of my work is creating inclusive systems that recognize neurodiversity as a strength, not a barrier. As the founder of Arts for Autism, I specialize in designing and leading arts-based, strengths-driven programs that support autistic individuals through creative expression, skill development, and community connection. The foundation’s work sits at the intersection of art, education, and disability advocacy, using evidence-based practices to create spaces where individuals can thrive authentically.

I’m also known for bridging worlds that don’t always speak to one another—nonprofit advocacy, clinical understanding, and higher education leadership. My academic background in Developmental Disabilities, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Educational Leadership allows me to translate research into practice in ways that are both effective and human-centered. Whether I’m building programs through Arts for Autism or leading access initiatives in higher education, my focus is on sustainability, dignity, and meaningful inclusion rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

What I’m most proud of is building Arts for Autism into a foundation that centers autistic voices and celebrates creativity as a form of empowerment. Seeing participants gain confidence, develop their talents, and feel a true sense of belonging is the most powerful measure of success. I’m equally proud of the ripple effect the work has had—helping families, educators, and institutions rethink how inclusion can look and feel when it’s done intentionally.

What sets me apart is my ability to pair creativity with structure. I bring the heart of advocacy and the arts together with the rigor of research, data, and leadership. That combination allows me to build programs that are not only inspiring, but scalable, accountable, and impactful. Above all, I lead with the belief that inclusion is not about accommodation alone—it’s about designing environments where everyone is seen, valued, and given the opportunity to flourish.

Any big plans?
Looking ahead, my focus is on growth with purpose. For Arts for Autism, that means expanding the foundation’s reach while staying deeply rooted in its mission. I’m looking forward to scaling programs that integrate the arts, education, and community partnerships, allowing more autistic individuals to access creative spaces that are affirming, inclusive, and empowering. A major priority is building sustainable infrastructure—strengthening funding streams, leadership capacity, and partnerships—so the foundation can continue to thrive long-term.

I’m also excited about deepening the impact of the work through collaboration. This includes partnering with schools, higher education institutions, and community organizations to embed arts-based, neurodiversity-affirming practices into existing systems rather than operating in isolation. By doing so, the work of Arts for Autism can influence broader cultural and educational change.

On a personal and professional level, I’m focused on refining my leadership and mentoring others who are passionate about inclusive practice. Having earned my doctorate in Educational Leadership, I see the next chapter as one of legacy-building—supporting emerging leaders, amplifying autistic voices, and contributing to policy and practice in meaningful ways.

There aren’t radical changes ahead, but there is intentional evolution. I’m most looking forward to seeing the foundation continue to grow thoughtfully, the community around it strengthen, and the impact deepen—proving that when creativity and inclusion are prioritized, lasting change is possible.

Pricing:

• All our programs are free
• Price range for online training courses $25-$250

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.spectrumdancetherapy.com
• Instagram: @arts_for_autism
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artsforautismspectrumdance6075