UCLA Tarjan Center Forum Featured Presenters

Russell Lehmann is a charismatic activist, motivational speaker, and acclaimed author and poet for autism, mental health, and disabilities. He captivates audiences with his powerful message of acceptance and resilience. Lehmann's work has had a positive and life-changing impact on many, and his advocacy and activism have helped to increase understanding and support for individuals in the disability community. Russell’s talent lies in several areas, showcasing his diverse skills and abilities to deliver impactful, educational, and...

Dr. Catherine Lord is the George Tarjan Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry in the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. She is a practicing clinical psychologist whose primary focus is autism and related disorders across the lifespan from toddlers through adulthood. Her research and clinical work are aimed at improving methods of identifying strengths and difficulties in individuals with possible ASD and working with families and individuals to maximize independence and well-being for all concerned. This has involved the development of diagnostic instruments (the...

Dr. Brandon Ito completed his undergraduate degree from the UC San Diego, master’s degree in public health at Harvard University, and medical school at the UC Irvine School of Medicine.  Dr. Ito completed his adult psychiatry training at UCSF and Child & Adolescent psychiatry fellowship in at NYU, where he served as Chief Fellow.  Dr. Ito is passionate about medical education, LGBTQ mental health, and reducing health care disparities in vulnerable populations.  Dr. Ito is a designated UCLA Health LGBTQ Champion, attending in the UCLA Child & Adult...

Dr. Rujuta B. Wilson is a behavioral child neurologist specializing in autism spectrum disorders and related neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). She is an Assistant Professor in Pediatric Neurology and Psychiatry at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and the UCLA Center for Autism Research and Treatment (CART). Dr. Wilson leads the motor phenotyping core at UCLA CART and is part of the translational clinical core of the UCLA Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC). Dr. Wilson is also director of research for the UCLA Tarjan (UCEDD) Center...

Dr. Christine Moody leads the postsecondary education and employment initiatives at the UCLA Tarjan Center, including multiple partnerships with the California Community College Chancellor's Office and California Department of Rehabilitation, to support young adults with developmental disabilities in these systems. In addition to these roles, Dr. Moody is a licensed clinical psychologist, and the Director of Research at the UCLA PEERS® Clinic, facilitating research on the evidence-based PEERS® social skills interventions and serving as a group leader in these programs.