PBSC alumnus coauthors book, shares story of autism

October 14, 2021 | By Staff Report

Palm Beach State College alumnus William Andrew Rose, who recently coauthored with his mom a book detailing his experiences of being diagnosed at 2-years-old with autism spectrum disorder, is featured on the website of a national nonprofit dedicated to promoting solutions for those with autism and their families.

In the Autism Speaks article, written in recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Rose encourages those with autism and other disabilities to be “consistent when applying for employment and never give up on your dreams until they come to fruition.”

Now 27, Rose overcame numerous challenges to graduate from Jupiter High School in 2014 and complete his Associate in Science degree in Graphic Design from PBSC in May 2019. Earlier this year, their book, “Amazing Grace, Amazing Gifts,” was published by WestBow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson & Zondervan.

His story is gaining traction. The youngest of four children, he was featured Oct. 13 on WPTV News Channel 5’s “Inspiring South Florida” segment, which highlighted the mentors who have helped shape his life and the tremendous support his mother, Terri Cunningham Rose, has provided. He hopes to speak more to high school students with disabilities as a source of inspiration and encouragement.

William Rose is also a member of the Toastmasters Club at Palm Beach State College, which has helped him hone his public speaking skills, and a new board member of the Junior Board of Directors at Unicorn Children’s Foundation.

To learn about the events the PBSC Center for Student Accessibility is hosting for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, visit www.palmbeachstate.edu/CSA.

17 comments on “PBSC alumnus coauthors book, shares story of autism”

Congratulations, William! What an achievement!

Congratulations to mom and son! Perseverance, love and community support does make a difference. God bless. Maria

Way to go nephew. One love uncle Steve.

Let nobody tell you it can’t be done, we are reading about it right at Palm Beach State College, well done William Andrew Rose.

What a blessing William. God is so good;keep up the good work.

Congratulations William. Keep soaring to higher heights.

William, youyouYOU are amazing. The mentoring you are doing perhaps may be the most important of all your many successes. Am so excited to see what you do next with your gift(s).

William I am so proud of you!!!
Congratulations to the both of you.
Love you two ❤️❤️ Brenda Mency

Congratulations William! We are so proud of you! May God continue to use you! Pastors Bobby Sr. & Dr. Annette M. Gilbert
Blessings!🌴

Congratulations William! I tutored him while in college! His mother is relentless, and he was so determined! I am just so proud of him!! The best is yet to come!!

Our families have a very close bond. I have known William since birth. He has always been a genius. I expect nothing but great things to come from this young man!

Congratulations, William! We are blessed to have played a part in your art education! May you continue to soar!
Wayne & Sherry Stephens

William Andrew Rose (WAR), I am so proud to say I know you! You and your mom are a force to be reckoned with! The sky is the limit to who you will be influencing with your positive message! Declare WAR on your challenges!