Jamie Burke

My name is Jamie Burke and I am from Syracuse, New York. I am a senior at Syracuse University in the College of Human Ecology.  I am very interested in making communication a happy absolute in autism, simply holding the potential of everyone.

My life embraces books, libraries, attending Syracuse Symphony, bowling, and being at camp on Lake Ontario with its peaceful fresh winds and hot sun.  Family times and joy of my brothers and relatives assumes that within the circle of life, all can be attempted.

- Jamie Burke

Jamie is an eloquent and passionate presenter on the topics of autism, sensory integration therapies and facilitated communication.  Using his Lightwriter and typing with the support of his parents and facilitators, Jamie has worked hard to learn to type independently and speak.

As a high school student, Jamie wrote and narrated the video documentary “Inside the edge: A journey to using speech through typing”.  In his documentary, Jamie tells his remarkable story of his introduction to facilitated communication as a young boy at Jowonio, which has progressed for him to independent typing and ultimately the ability to speak. On the topic of success, Jamie says, “Success is in your interpretation of life”.

Jamie is an inspiration to many through his work with Syracuse University’s Facilitated Communication Institute. He encourages others to continue their own journeys towards greater communication and connection with others.

Jamie and his family self-direct their staff and services through his Self-Determination / Consolidated Supports and Services plan with the support of their Advocates Medicaid Service Coordinator and Broker.

“Knowing the feeling of success, the solid realization that dreams are held through hope and belief, struggle and love, disappointment and persisting – when quitting is secretly thought to be the best thought to hold.”  - Jamie Burke