Harris steps down as head of AsIAm autism charity
Becomes chief executive officer of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland
AsIAm, the autism charity, marked the contribution of its founder and outgoing chief executive officer, Adam Harris, at a farewell reception in Dublin last night, hosted by Arthur Cox LLP.
The event celebrated his leadership in growing AsIAm from a blog and website run from his bedroom into a national organisation working to ensure autistic people have the same chance in Irish society.
Harris is stepping down to take up the position of chief executive officer of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland.
Over more than a decade, AsIAm has developed advocacy and supports for autistic people and families across the life cycle, alongside programmes that build understanding and accessibility in schools, public services, businesses, workplaces and communities.
The farewell provided an opportunity to reflect on that journey and recognise the autistic people, families, staff, volunteers, partners and supporters who have helped shape the organisation.
Reflecting on his departure, Adam Harris said: “Leading AsIAm has been the greatest of honours. What began as a simple blog and website, operated from my bedroom, has become a movement for change because of the insights, ideas, support and generosity of our community.
“Everything we have achieved has been a collective effort. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey and who shares our vision of an Ireland where every Autistic person is accepted as they are — equal, valued and respected.
“AsIAm has so much more to achieve, and I have every confidence in the board, team and community as the organisation begins its next chapter. I will be cheering them on every step of the way.”
Shaun Murphy, Chair of the Board of AsIAm, said: “On behalf of the board, I want to thank Adam for his extraordinary contribution to AsIAm and to Ireland’s autistic community. His vision, determination and leadership have helped build an organisation that has made a lasting difference to the lives of Autistic people and their families.
“Adam leaves a remarkable legacy, reflected in the strength of our team, the commitment of our community and the ambition of our work. As we build on that foundation, our focus remains firmly on ensuring every autistic person has the same chance in Irish society. We wish Adam every success in his new role with Social Entrepreneurs Ireland.”
AsIAm says its vision, strategy, programmes and commitments remain unchanged throughout the leadership transition. The organisation will continue its work to protect the rights of autistic people, challenge misinformation and ableism, and build a more accessible and inclusive Ireland.