Patchogue, NY - October 18th, 2013 -  On Friday, November 1, 2013 St. Joseph’s College and Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE), a not-for-profit agency that supports more than 3,500 individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental illness and traumatic brain injury on Long Island, will partner together to host a conference dedicated to the exploration of positive approaches and current trends in education with a focus on resources and best practices for diverse learners.  The eagerly anticipated symposium will showcase celebrated autism advocate and internationally distinguished designer of livestock handling facilities, Dr. Temple Grandin.  

As a published author, renowned professor and the subject of an  HBO film starring Claire Danes, Grandin has worked to become one of the most accomplished and well-known adults with autism in the world. The conference which will include 30 breakout session topics will commence at 8:00 AM and last until 3:30 PM at St Jospeh's College 155 W Roe Blvd in Patchogue. Three CEU credits will be afforded to attending teachers.

For more information, visit the St. Joseph's College website, or call 631-687-4500.

About St. Joseph’s College
St. Joseph's College has been dedicated to providing a diverse population of students in the New York metropolitan area with an affordable education rooted in the liberal arts tradition since 1916. Independent and coeducational, the College provides a strong academic and value-oriented education at the undergraduate and graduate levels, aiming to prepare each student for a life characterized by integrity, intellectual and spiritual values, social responsibility, and service. With campuses located in the Clinton Hill area of Brooklyn and in Patchogue, Long Island, the College offers degrees in more than 26 majors, special course offerings and certificates, affiliated and pre-professional programs through its School of Arts and Sciences and its School of Professional and Graduate Studies.

About Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE)
Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE) founded in 1977 and headquartered in Old Bethpage, benefits and proudly supports more than 3,500 individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental illness and traumatic brain injury. It is the mission of FREE to help individuals of all abilities realize their full potential. FREE provides a diverse array of supports and services including: housing, recovery services,  transition to work, employment, day, community and family services, respite, crisis services, education and after-school support, primary and specialty health care and advocacy. For more information, please call 516-870-1622 or visit www.familyres.org.