ESU hosts Through Their Eyes Conference, April 19

Ben Hartranft

Posted by: Elizabeth Richardson on April 12, 2022, No Comments

Ben Hartranft, diagnosed with Autism at age 2, was invited to be a guest on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to promote autism awareness and raise funds for research. From that moment on, he said, “I knew my dream was to advocate for autism awareness, taking awareness into action.” On April 19, Hartranft will share his story “One Kind Person Can Change the World” at East Stroudsburg University as a part of a conference titled “Through Their Eyes.”

In its 23rd year, the conference hosts speakers who have overcome attitudinal, physical or cultural barriers. Joining Hartranft will be Trey DelGrosso, whose presentation is entitled “Autism – A Look Inside My Superpower” and Miles Forma whose presentation is “My Journey to Inspire and Educate.”

The conference, which will be held at East Stroudsburg University’s Innovation Center from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., aims to give those in attendance a personal perspective from people with disabilities that is unique, according to Domenico Cavaiuolo, Ph.D., professor of special education and rehabilitation.

“It is intended to provide the audience with an understanding that people with disabilities can accomplish great things despite their challenges,” he said.

The conference is open to the public and it is free of charge. For more information contact Dr. Cavaiuolo at (570) 422-3893, or dcavaiuolo@esu.edu.