08/30/2026
What began out of necessity, when a handful of Bowling Green families came together because of the lack of meaningful services for autistic individuals, has grown into a program with an international reach. Today, that same family-driven spirit allows us to support Campus Lumya, a new organization founded by Romanian families who knew their loved ones deserved more.
A team from the Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex was invited back to Romania to continue this collaboration, this time with a focus on expanding employment opportunities for autistic workers.
During our visit, we traveled to three cities, met with government officials, appeared on national television, and spoke with parents and employers who asked the same question we hear in Kentucky: “How can I help?”
This experience underscored what can be accomplished when we reach across borders, firmly join hands, and push together for a better future. It was an incredible opportunity for the SVCEC, our partners at Campus Lumya, and our local Kentucky communities. We all benefit when expertise is nurtured and shared.
While part of our team was advancing this work in Romania, others were on WKU’s campus welcoming and supporting our newest students. Whether the work happens in our own backyard or 5,000 miles away, you can count on the SVCEC to be agents of change.
Thank you, Steluța, for your vision. Thank you to the Rotary Club of Pipera for your financial support. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended and shared the ideas and insights that will help us shape better outcomes for autistic individuals and their families.
