Queen’s academic honoured for contribution to autism services in Czech Republic
Professor Karola Dillenburger was awarded the Gold Medal of Masaryk University (MUNI) for her contribution to setting up autism services in the Czech Republic.
This prestigious award from Masaryk University is bestowed on distinguished representatives from the world of science, culture, higher education, and public life in recognition of their outstanding contributions, including their commitment to the struggle for human rights and dignity.
Professor Dillenburger, from the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, and Director of the Centre for Behaviour Analysis at Queen’s, is renowned for her high-impact research in behavioural science.
She established the Centre for Behaviour Analysis at Queen’s, an international research centre of excellence with world-leading expertise with regards to the science of behaviour analysis. The team at the Centre conduct research in relation to education, autism, and disability rights.
Professor Dillenburger has led similar developments internationally, with an enduring focus on the Czech Republic and other European countries. In the Czech Republic she led developments for training and professional recognition of behaviour analysts and evidence-based autism service. She was instrumental in setting up the Czech Association of Behaviour Analysis and the Centre for Applied Behaviour Analysis at MUNI.
Speaking about the award, Professor Dillenburger said: "Receiving this international recognition for my work in relation to bringing the science of behaviour analysis to the community means the world to me. I have been working with my colleagues in the Czech Republic since the mother of a child with profound autism contacted me asking for help. We brought together a team of parents, autistic adults, academics, politicians, and professionals to work together to enhance the lives of autistic children and adults. What this team has achieved in the Czech Republic in only a few years is remarkable. I feel that I received this award in the name of the whole team.”
Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s commented: “I warmly congratulate Professor Dillenburger on her well-deserved recognition for her remarkable achievement in advancing autism services in the Czech Republic. Her unwavering commitment and impactful research have brought about positive change, enriching the lives of autistic individuals and their families throughout the world.”
The Gold Medal was presented by the Rector of MUNI, Professor Martin Béreš as part of the celebration of the 105th anniversary of the founding of the university.
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