Dr. Edlyn Peña is an associate professor of higher education leadership at California Lutheran University. Her scholarship is dedicated to understanding ways to support college students with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Her award-winning researcher shines a light on the needs and experiences of students with autism in higher education. Dr. Peña is the director of the Autism and Communication Center, a university resource center that aims to empower students with autism to access communication and inclusion opportunities in schools and communities. Through her advocacy, Dr. Peña has organized national conferences, workshops, and trainings to support the autism community. Dr. Peña serves on a number of advisory boards and committees, including the National Institute of Health Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee in Washington DC.