MASONIC MEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL “TOGETHER FOR AUTISM RESEARCH” GALA IN NEW YORK CITY ON THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2025, AT 6 PM, 71 WEST 23RD STREET, NEW YORK
Keynote Speaker Harry Psaros, author of “From Struggle to Strength,” to Share a Father’s Journey with Autism
New York, NY – [March 17, 2025] – The Masonic Medical Research Institute (MMRI) is proud to announce the Inaugural Together for Autism Research Gala, a special evening dedicated to advancing groundbreaking autism research. The gala will take place at The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at 71 West 23rd St, New York, New York.
Autism care and research advocate, Harry Psaros, will deliver the keynote address. Psaros is the author of the book, From Struggle to Strength: A Father’s Journey with Autism and the Power of Hope and Positivity, which offers a powerful perspective on resilience and hope in the autism community (https://www.harrypsaros.com).
The premier event will bring together supporters, researchers, and advocates to further MMRI’s mission of improving the quality of life through pioneering biomedical research. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening featuring a gourmet menu, a full bar and live music.
MMRI, a world-renowned biomedical research institute based in Utica, NY, has a 66-year legacy of life-changing research in autism, heart disease, lupus, diabetes, PTSD, and more. Under the leadership of Maria Kontaridis, Ph.D., Executive Director and Gordon K. Moe Professor and Chair of Biomedical Research and Translational Medicine, MMRI is at the forefront of identifying novel genetic links to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and congenital heart disease (CHD). Using cutting-edge technologies such as inducible pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and genome editing, MMRI researchers are paving the way for innovative treatments and therapies for individuals and families affected by these conditions.
“With 1 in 36 children diagnosed with ASD in the United States alone, our research has never been more urgent,” said Dr. Kontaridis. “At MMRI we are dedicated to unlocking the genetic and molecular mechanisms of autism to develop future therapies that can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. In fact, we have already made strides in determining several genes that could potentially cause the condition.”
By attending this gala, supporters will play a crucial role in funding MMRI’s groundbreaking autism research and helping to accelerate medical advancements that could transform the future of autism care and treatment.
“Many families with loved ones with autism are coming forward, allowing us to study their genetic makeup,” said Dr. Kontaridis. “We can map out their genes to identify any specific mutations that could lead to autism- helping us develop pathways towards a cure. Right now, funding is critical to continue this vital research.”
To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities, please visit: mmri.edu/autismgala
About MMRI:
The Masonic Medical Research Institute (MMRI) is a world-class biomedical research institute dedicated to improving human health through cutting-edge research in autism, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, and other complex conditions. Founded in 1958, MMRI continues to lead the way in innovative scientific discovery and translational medicine. For more information: https://www.mmri.edu/.
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