Texas Border Project
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Henry Culler, PhD (TX-28), has been recognized for the 2025 Autism Advocacy Award, a national recognition of his leadership in advancing and funding policies to support the autism spectrum and individuals in their families. The award was announced during a valuable autism gala dinner hosted by the American Autism Association, which promises to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by autism through advocacy, education and support. Rep. Cuellar was awarded the award along with Sens. Ben Ray Luhan and Susan Collins.
“We are deeply honored to receive the 2025 Autism Advocacy Award,” Dr. Kuerer said. “I am grateful for the work of the American Autism Association and congratulate them on 60 years of transformational work. For the autism spectrum and individuals in their families, this job is not just a policy, it’s a lifeline.
As co-chair of the Congressional Autism Caucus, Dr. Quellal led a bipartisan effort to strengthen federal support for the autistic community. Working with Rep. Chris Smith, he has supported policies that advance research, improve access to care and expand services for individuals with autism at all stages of life.
The cornerstone of these efforts was the Autism Care Act, and Dr. Kuerer passed and helped him sign the law. The Act directs critical funding for early diagnosis, effective intervention, workforce training, and lifetime support systems. That continuous update highlights the federal government’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the autistic community.
