February 15, 2024

Written by: Sarah Greer

Icylee Basketbill is a Family and Community Liaison with the Policy and Analytics Center at the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute. Her journey into the field of autism was deeply personal, as it began with her daughter's diagnosis in 2008. Motivated by her experiences as a parent navigating the stages of emotion and understanding, she felt a solid duty to care for her daughter and advocate for other families facing similar challenges.

She started working at the Autism Institute in February 2017 in a role that perfectly marries her lived experience as a parent with her professional responsibilities. Icylee has been actively involved in various initiatives within the Autism Institute, including the Leadership Council. Her role on the council allows her to provide a valuable parent perspective and contribute to discussions on research and policy. She has also been instrumental in outreach efforts, including tabling, speaking engagements, and creating infographics.

One of her standout moments was during a collaborative project at a judges' conference in February 2020. She created a skit to help judges understand the experiences of individuals on the spectrum, leaving an impression and garnering appreciation for her unique approach. Her motto in life is "Don't let your dreams be your dreams." This philosophy underscores her belief in stepping out on faith, visualizing goals, and taking proactive steps to achieve them. She emphasizes the importance of self-education and personal growth in navigating life's challenges.

In her free time, she enjoys exploring history through documentaries, particularly those focused on British topics. She is keenly interested in understanding the stories behind events and enjoys researching various subjects to deepen her knowledge. Additionally, she particularly enjoys DC comics and sci-fi content.

Icylee has a clear vision for her future. She wants to keep working in roles that allow her to positively impact the lives of individuals and families affected by autism. To further her impact in the field, she is considering pursuing a master's degree in counseling.