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The Access for Autism program of the University of Arkansas is under the direction of Michele Kilmer, D.N.P., an assistant professor in the U of A Eleanor Mann School of Nursing. Located on the Fayetteville campus in the Epley Center for Health Professions, the A4A program conducts research studies to enhance the quality of life for autistic children. The program has completed studies examining workforce and clinical practice barriers to pediatric autism diagnosis and care, as well as cultural factors contributing to delayed identification. As of January 1, 2026, A4A no longer conducts research studies that include autism diagnostic evaluations. Current research efforts focus on evaluating a hybrid care model developed from findings of prior studies, while ongoing animal-assisted therapy research continues to enroll autistic children. These studies, conducted with Gryffin, examine the impact of animal-assisted interventions on prosocial behavior and emotional regulation.