Publications & Presentations
The Autism Brilliance Lab for Entrepreneurship (ABLE) and Islands of Brilliance collaborate on research that explores neurodivergent strengths, creativity, and learning. Our findings are shared through publications and presentations designed to be accessible to everyone—neurodivergent self-advocates, family members, educators, service providers, researchers, and clinicians. We are committed to making our research both meaningful and actionable for the communities we serve.
Empowering autistic creativity through art and technology
Publishing Journal: Journal of Creativity
A relationship-centred approach to autism: Islands of Brilliance
Publishing Journal: Good Autism Practice (GAP)
Presentations
What Brings You Joy?: Exploring Autistic Joy in Individuals and Families
Conference: Children Come First Conference
Presentation Date: November 4, 2025
Presenters: Dr. Kate Siekman, Dr. Jeana M. Holt
Through the Lens of Joy: How Autistic Individuals Capture Their Happiness using Photovoice and Implications for OT Practice
Conference: Wisconsin Occupational Therapy Association Annual Conference
Presentation Date: October 3, 2025
Presenters: Dr. Kate Siekman, Dr. Jeana M. Holt
Using Creativity to Explore Neurodiverse Students’ Identities
Conference: 2024 Arts Education Partnership Conference
Presentation Date: September 13, 2024
Presenters: Dr. Kate Siekman, Dr. Jeana M. Holt, Natalie Derr
Community Engagement through Arts Research Partnerships
Conference: NEA Research Summit
Presentation Date: June 3, 2024
Presenters: Dr. Nathaniel Stern
Empowering Autistic Youth: Enhancing Creative Self-Efficacy Through a Community-based Art Program
Conference: Midwest Nursing Research 49th Annual Conference
Presentation Date:
Presenters: Dr. Kate Siekman, Dr. Jeana M. Holt, Margaret Fairbanks, Mark Fairbanks, Lilly Carrillo, Dr. Nathaniel Stern
Cultivating Creativity: Mentorship, Special Interests, and Habits of Mind in Autistic Youth
Conference: Midwest Nursing Research 50th Annual Conference
Presentation Date:
Presenters: Dr. Jeana M. Holt, Lilly Carrillo, Gita Shiltz, Dr. Kate Siekman, Margaret Fairbanks, Mark Fairbanks, and Dr. Nathaniel Stern
Autism Brilliance Lab for Entrepreneurship
Conference: 2023 Arts Education Partnership Conference
Presentation Date: September 2023
Presenters: Dr. Nathaniel Stern
Individuals or organizations interested in collaborative research or partnership opportunities are encouraged to contact Dr. Kate Siekman, Director of Learning and Outcomes at Islands of Brilliance, to explore potential projects that advance understanding of neurodivergent creativity and learning.