Ric & Jean Edelman Planetarium at Rowan University Achieves Certified Autism Center™ Designation

Nothing should prevent someone from learning about the universe, and this designation helps every visitor experience the joys of discovery.”

— Amy Barraclough, director of Edelman Planetarium

GLASSBORO, NJ, UNITED STATES, January 8, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) proudly awards the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) to the Ric & Jean Edelman Planetarium at Rowan University, recognizing

its efforts to create an accessible and inclusive environment for all visitors, including autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals. To earn the certification, planetarium staff completed autism and sensory training to equip them with a deeper understanding of autism and provide knowledge of best practices to welcome, support, and include autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals. The project was funded by a federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

“Our designation as a Certified Autism Center™ reflects our commitment to making the planetarium a place where everyone feels welcome and supported. For us, this project is about fostering an environment where curiosity and learning are accessible to all. Nothing should prevent someone from learning about the universe, and this designation helps every visitor experience the joys of discovery,” says Amy Barraclough, director of Edelman Planetarium.

“We’re excited to congratulate the Ric & Jean Edelman Planetarium at Rowan University on becoming a Certified Autism Center™,” says Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “This achievement shows their commitment to making the wonders of space accessible to every visitor. By investing in specialized training, the planetarium is creating a more welcoming experience for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and strengthening its connection with the entire community.”

IBCCES autism training provides staff with clear, standardized protocols for interacting with guests with autism and other invisible disabilities. This gives staff confidence in their interaction with guests, reducing hesitation, guesswork and the time it takes for staff to decide how to handle a situation, leading to faster and more confident service. Certification fosters a strategic, big-picture impact that fundamentally strengthens the organization by enhancing the organization’s reputation and differentiation and creating a culture of excellence, all working together to build long-term institutional value.

For more than two decades, IBCCES has been a leader in providing autism, sensory and neurodiversity training and certification for professionals worldwide, including those in healthcare, education, public safety, travel, and corporate sectors. As the only credentialing board offering these programs, IBCCES provides training from subject matter experts and autistic self-advocates, along with long-term support, continuous learning, onsite reviews, and renewal requirements to ensure continued growth and lasting impact.

To further support inclusivity efforts, the Ric & Jean Edelman Planetarium is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download. This app provides individuals with a variety of disabilities real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces, and tailored recommendations. By connecting users to accessible locations worldwide, the app helps ensure seamless, enjoyable experiences for everyone.

IBCCES also provides access to resources such as AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com, free online tools for families that list certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the site has met IBCCES certification requirements.