About Kate
This fund was created in honor of Katherine Margaret (Kate) Bowman, who died tragically from a head injury on Christmas Eve of 2023, leaving behind three wonderful little boys, the youngest of whom is autistic. Kate’s life had close connections to both autism spectrum disorder and the USC Biology Department. As a young woman, she watched as her older brother and his wife rose to the challenge of raising their two autistic sons, and had only just begun to face a similar challenge herself when she unexpectedly passed away. Her life was also closely tied to the Biology Department at USC, where both her parents were professors, and where she worked in the biology stockroom for years while attending college. This memorial fund is aimed at understanding autism spectrum disorder and helping families deal with the challenges of raising autistic children. Kate would have loved being a part of that endeavor.
The Kate Bowman Memorial Fund supports several CAN initiatives. Your tax-deductible gift will support the top three priorities for the Fund listed below:
The Registry is a database of potential research study participants, supporting recruitment efforts for faculty research and encouraging community engagement in research. Your gift supports the expansion of recruitment and outreach efforts and facilitates regular maintenance and updates of current registry contacts.
In partnership with the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) and CAN, AutismConnect is a free, in-person gathering dedicated to bringing together individuals, families, and professionals in the autism community. With over 20 unique presentation sessions and 75 exhibitors, AutismConnect provides attendees the oportunity to discover the latest research, innovative therapies, and support networks that can make a difference in the lives of those with autism. Supporting AutismConnect with a contribution to the Kate Bowman fund allows the conference to remain free-to-attend, can provide on-site childcare for attendees with young children, and support the venue cost, allowing for additional attendees and exhibitors. Learn more about this event here!
A free, weekly group meeting for parents of children with autism to learn and practice mindfulness activities that can benefit their parenting. Your gift to the Kate Bowman Memorial Fund will help CAN increase marketing and outreach efforts, provide additional groups in order to reach more families, and compensate the licensed group facilitators.