About

Mission and Vision

The George Washington University’s Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Institute (ANDI) was established to conduct groundbreaking research that will:

• Improve our understanding of the root causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Develop tools for accurate diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments with a focus on getting the right treatment to the right person at the best time
• Inform policies that address the complex issues facing the ASD community, particularly those relevant to young people living with autism as they transition to adulthood

As the lead site and only member of a National Institutes of Health’s Autism Center of Excellence (ACE) network in the mid-Atlantic, ANDI will harness the expertise of its researchers and clinicians to provide top-notch clinical services in DC and Northern Virginia while connecting faculty, families affected by ASD and policymakers to tackle tough questions that continue to divide the ASD community.

The institute will also develop more effective interventions, treatments and policies specifically focused on supporting women and girls with autism and individuals transitioning to adulthood, two groups that are often underserved and under-researched.

Despite more than 3.5 million Americans living with ASD, there is still significant mystery to its causes and which treatments are most effective. By combining science, evidence-based treatments and smart policy, ANDI will create better outcomes and better futures for those living with ASD.