Center Faculty Affiliate Honored with Statewide Award for Excellence in Autism Research

The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing is pleased to celebrate Sarah Mire, Ph.D., faculty affiliate and associate professor of educational psychology, who was recently awarded the Dr. Ollie Seay Knowledge Award for Excellence in Research by the Texas chapter of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDDTX).

This distinguished honor recognizes not only her outstanding scholarship, but also her sustained and far-reaching impact on improving the lives of children with autism and other developmental disabilities across Texas.

For more than 15 years, Mire’s work has exemplified the power of rigorous, community-rooted, and interdisciplinary research. As founder and director of the School Psychology Autism Research Collaboration, she has focused on improving outcomes for children through strengthening the capacities of the adults who support them—including caregivers, educators, and clinicians. She is also developing new approaches for earlier and more culturally responsive autism identification, with the goal of creating equitable access to services statewide. 

“This recognition is very meaningful and deeply humbling,” said Mire. “I’m sincerely grateful to AAIDDTX for honoring the work I do as part of the Center. I truly hope our research continues to reflect AAIDDTX’s values and contribute in meaningful ways to the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.” 

Mire’s scholarly contributions include more than 67 peer-reviewed publications, chapters, and other works, in addition to workshops, presentations, and consultations that equip practitioners and leaders with evidence-based approaches. 

Her partnerships span schools, service providers, medical professionals, and family networks—aligning with the Center’s mission of bridging research and practice to ensure that people with disabilities, their families, and communities experience mutual flourishing.

“Interdisciplinary scholarship is essential to building communities where people with disabilities can truly flourish,” said Center Executive Director Dr. Erik Carter. “Dr. Mire’s work exemplifies how integrating insights across fields can lead to more responsive supports, stronger families, and more inclusive communities.” 

The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing is grateful for Sarah Mire’s continued collaboration and celebrates her leadership, impact, and enduring commitment to strengthening the supports that help children and families thrive.