About the Navigating Autism Today Conference:

 

You are invited to join Autism Alliance of Michigan for the Navigating Autism Today Conference on Friday, March 6, 2026 at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace (formerly Suburban Collection Showplace), 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi, MI.

 

The mission of the Navigating Autism Today Conference is to provide autistic people and their loved ones with education, resources, and support in the areas of early diagnosis, education, and adulthood. Our goal is that attendees feel better equipped to navigate their unique journey with autism. 

 

Attendees will spend their day in four breakout sessions hosted by professional speakers. There will be a diverse variety of topics and speakers to choose from so attendees can design their day to best reflect their unique interests. The event also provides a keynote speaker, complimentary breakfast & lunch, networking opportunities, and an autism resource fair with 40+ vendors!

Please note that the registration fee is a fully tax deductible donation to Autism Alliance of Michigan. All registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable.

 

Schedule of the Day:

8:00am - 9:00am: Registration & Breakfast

9:00am - 9:10am: CEO Welcome

9:10am - 10:10am: Keynote Speaker

10:20am - 11:20am: Breakout Session A

11:30am - 12:30pm: Breakout Session B

12:30pm - 1:30pm: Lunch

1:30pm - 2:30pm: Breakout Session C

2:40pm - 3:40pm: Breakout Session D

 

Presenters will be announced soon!

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Coming in from out of town?

Book a room at the Hyatt in Novi at a discounted group rate of $149.00. Reservations can be made through the link below with the Group Code: G-ATSM.

 

All reservations must be accompanied by a first night room deposit, or guaranteed with a major credit card. Hotel will not hold any reservations unless secured by one of the above methods. Cancellations must be received a minimum of (72) hours prior to arrival for a full refund.  Cancellations received less than (72) hours prior to arrival will forfeit one (1) night room and tax. 

Reservations by attendees must be made by February 5, 2026.

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Tracey Cohen was a passionate self-advocate born in metro Detroit and diagnosed with autism at the age of 39. She was an author of three books, an inspirational speaker, long-distance runner, Peace Corp volunteer, and autism activist.

 

Tracey’s passion was helping others know that they are not alone in their journey with autism. Tracey aimed to “smooth their path” by sharing her own experiences and insight. She was also passionate about helping the non-autistic community more clearly understand life on the autism spectrum.

 

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is honored to continue Tracey's legacy by awarding the Tracey Cohen Memorial Award at the 2026 Navigating Autism Today Conference. The recipient will be a local self-advocate who embodies Tracey’s passion for advocacy, education, & accomplishment.

 

Previous Tracey Cohen Memorial Award Recipients

2024 - Tracey Cohen’s family members

2025 - Tommie Taylor Jr.

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Break Room location: In the main hallway, across from the Diamond Ballroom

 

Break Room Rules:

  • Silence all electronic devices before entering
  • Be respectful of others’ shared use of the space (e.g., refrain from eating, etc.)
  • Save conversations for outside of this space

 

Thank you for being courteous!