The Morris Family to Receive the 2025 Caryn Schwartzman Spirit Award
New York, Feb. 10, 2025 – The Autism Science Foundation (ASF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and funding innovative autism research, announced today that Robin and Danny Morris, along with their four children—Paul, Jesse, Sabrina, and Tyler—will receive the 2025 Caryn Schwartzman Spirit Award. This award recognizes outstanding autism research advocacy by family members of a person with autism.
The award will be presented at ASF’s twelfth annual Day of Learning event on Wednesday, April 9, in New York City.
For over 25 years, the Morris family has been committed to advancing autism research and advocacy. Their journey began when Paul was diagnosed with autism, which led them to the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR). Since then, they have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for research, advocated at both the federal and local levels, and worked to promote autism awareness. Paul, who is diagnosed with autism, has been a powerful advocate, addressing Members of Congress and speaking at the University of Pennsylvania, Yale, and many other institutions about his experiences.
“The Morris family’s dedication to autism research and advocacy has inspired us for over 20 years,” said Alison Singer, President of the Autism Science Foundation. “Their unwavering commitment has driven meaningful progress, and their efforts exemplify the profound impact that passionate advocates can have. We are honored to recognize their contributions to ASF and to the autism community with this award.”
The Morris family is a proud supporter of ASF, fundraising through initiatives like Wall Street Rides FAR, where they have earned the award for top family fundraising team for 11 years. Paul also spoke at ASF’s 5th Annual Day of Learning, highlighting the importance of research. Sabrina, Jesse, and Tyler are unwavering supporters of their brother who fundraise within the autism community and also help spread awareness of the needs of people with autism. Robin serves on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at Connecticut State Community College, where she has introduced seminars to raise autism awareness. Robin and Danny, immensely proud of their children, remain dedicated to making a difference—always inspired by Paul, who fuels the entire family’s commitment to improving the lives of individuals with autism.
The Caryn Schwartzman Spirit Award is presented annually to family advocates whose energy and commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism best emulate Caryn’s. Caryn was a loving and dedicated mother and a tireless advocate who worked with the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR), Autism Speaks, and the Autism Science Foundation to raise money, advance autism research, and improve the lives of children across the country.
The award will be presented by Caryn’s daughter, Allyson Schwartzman Hoffman. The Day of Learning on April 9 will feature TED-style talks by the nation’s top autism experts, offering insights into the latest autism research and innovations.
Register for this year’s Day of Learning here.
About the Autism Science Foundation
The Autism Science Foundation (ASF) is a 501(c) (3) public charity. Its mission is to support autism research by providing funding to scientists and organizations conducting autism research. ASF also provides information about autism to the general public and serves to increase awareness of autism spectrum disorders and the needs of individuals and families affected by autism. To learn more about the Autism Science Foundation or to make a donation, visit www.autismsciencefoundation.org.