Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) has been designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC), highlighting its commitment to providing accessible and inclusive educational experiences for all visitors. The CAC designation is awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) for organizations that have undergone specialized training and are equipped to meet the needs of autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals.

“The Inland Seas Education Association firmly believes that all individuals should have the opportunity to experience the majesty of our Great Lakes. We are thrilled that training through IBCCES will help us provide hands-on education in alignment with the latest advancements in autism support,” Inland Seas Executive Director Fred Sitkins said in a statement. 

With the core value of protecting the essential function of the Great Lakes as a vital resource to the surrounding ecosystem, ISEA provides meaningful educational experiences that inspire curiosity, stewardship, and a lifetime passion for the resiliency of the Great Lakes.

“Inland Seas Education Association becoming a Certified Autism Center™ is a significant milestone. Their certification emphasizes their commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that everyone can fully experience and benefit from their programs. It’s a step forward in creating a more understanding and accommodating environment for all,” Myron Pincomb, board chairman of IBCCE, says in the statement. 

For more than 20 years, IBCCES has been the leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for health care, education, and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES created programs for a variety of industries so staff would be more knowledgeable and other accommodations could be offered to this growing, but underserved, part of the community. IBCCES is the only credentialing board offering these types of programs, which include training from subject-matter experts and autistic self-advocates, as well as long-term support and continuous learning, onsite reviews, and more.