Temple Grandin To Speak At Tulsa Community College Veterinary Benefit

She didn't speak until she was 4 years old, and today she is a household name to ranchers, animal scientists, autism advocates and HBO audiences.

Dr. Temple Grandin's life was chronicled in the HBO film "Temple Grandin," which earned 15 Emmy nominations and five awards, including Claire Danes' Best Actress in a Drama win for portraying the title role.

Grandin will speak at 7 p.m. March 6 at the VanTrease Performing Arts Center for Education on the Tulsa Community College Southeast Campus. In her presentation, "Animals, Autism and Visual Thinking," she will describe the connection that she, as a woman with autism, has with animals because of her ability to think visually.

"We are thrilled to have Dr. Grandin coming to speak at Tulsa Community College," said Dr. Tom McKeon, TCC president.

"She has made a significant impact in not only the world of autism, but also the world of animal science. I am looking forward to having her here to share her knowledge and inspirational story with our students and community."

Grandin, who is a doctor of animal science, is using her as a fundraising event benefiting the Dr. Jan Weaver Veterinary Technology Scholarship, which provides funds to students who are training to become Registered Veterinary Technicians in the TCC Veterinary Technology Program.

This event is open to the public. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students. For tickets, call 918-595-7777 or visit http://www.myticketoffice.com.

During Grandin's stay in Tulsa, she will also meet with teachers at the TCC Child Development Center and with representatives from the Autism Center of Tulsa. Grandin will discuss teaching children with autism March 7 on the TCC West Campus. Also on March 7, she will meet with Oklahomans actively involved with cattle and horses.

TCC's Veterinary Technology Program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). The Oklahoma Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (OSBVME) is the licensing body for Oklahoma.

Learn more about Dr. Temple Grandin and her work.