Art Education Professor, Dr. Laura Hetrick, Delivers Lecture on Autism
February 20, 2026
Dr. Laura Hetrick, Associate Professor of Art Education and CARD member delivered a virtual lecture on autism to two disability organizations in China, drawing significant interest and engagement from audiences across the country. The presentation, hosted via Zoom, was coordinated by Dr. Li Xu in collaboration with Dr. Jun Hu, both long standing research partners in China.
Following the event, Dr. Xu shared that the lecture had been picked up by The Paper, one of China’s major media outlets, greatly expanding its reach. Early audience responses—many accessible through online translation tools—reflected strong appreciation for Dr. Hetrick’s insights and the cross cultural dialogue on autism support and advocacy.
Dr. Xu reported that the talk was “very well received” and encouraged Dr. Hetrick to explore the public comments, which highlight growing interest in disability studies and neurodiversity awareness within the Chinese community.
The lecture marks another milestone in the continuing international collaboration between Dr. Hetrick and her colleagues in China, aimed at advancing understanding and support for autistic individuals worldwide.
Laura Hetrick, 2026. Life with Autism as an Adult. Invited Lecture at Hangzhou Normal University in Hangzhou, China. Organized by administrators from Comprehensive Service Center for Persons with Disabilities, and Rongna Art Service Center for Assisting Persons with Disabilities, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, China. (January 5).
