Hume receives DADD Research Award
Kara Hume, PhD, a faculty fellow at UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG), was named the recipient of the 2025 Council for Exceptional Children’s Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities (DADD) Research Award — a recognition that honors outstanding contributions to research supporting individuals with autism, intellectual disability, and other developmental disabilities.
Hume was presented with the award at the 26th International Conference on Autism, Intellectual Disability & Developmental Disabilities in Clearwater, Fla., during an award ceremony on Jan. 22.
“I’m so grateful to have been nominated and to receive this award from DADD, and most importantly to get to do this work with the autism community alongside such wonderful colleagues, community members, and students,” said Hume.
For 30 years, Hume, who is also the Richard “Dick” Coop Faculty Scholar in Education within the UNC School of Education and director of the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice, has dedicated her career to advancing school- and community-based interventions for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Her research focuses on autistic children and youth, school-based interventions from preschool through high school transition, and the impact of life skills and physical activity outside of school. She collaborates with youth, families, school teams, and community partners to conduct applied research in real-world settings.
“This award is a testament to Dr. Hume’s dedication and groundbreaking contributions to autism research,” said Jill Hamm, Ph.D., interim dean of the School and William C. Friday Distinguished Professor of Education. “Her work has advanced evidence-based interventions, enriched countless lives, and paved the way for future scholars to build on this key research. We are proud to see an integral member of the School’s community recognized in this way.”
“I’m so grateful to have been nominated and to receive this award from DADD, and most importantly to get to do this work with the autism community alongside such wonderful colleagues, community members, and students,” said Hume.
