ETA Magic Moments

By the end of the visit to Cheyney University, one student’s college plans had changed completely. After sharing her interest in attending the nation’s first Historically Black College and University, and explaining how she had researched its history and imagined herself on campus, she was invited by the Director of Admissions into a private conversation.

When she returned from the trip, she shared the news that confirmed just how much that visit had mattered: she had been offered a full scholarship by the Director of Admissions to Cheyney University.

That moment came during an ETA-developed HBCU tour through Washington, DC, led by ETA Tour Manager Myra. While the group explored multiple campuses, the visit to Cheyney stood out because of the access and dialogue built into the experience. Students were welcomed directly by campus leadership and encouraged to speak openly about their goals. For one student, that access turned a campus visit into a life-changing opportunity.

Each June, students step onto a Broadway stage and into a moment they will never forget.

ETA’s annual benefit concert, Arts for Autism, brings young performers from across the country together with Broadway stars for one extraordinary night in New York City. For many of these students, it’s the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, the bright lights, the orchestra, the hush before the curtain rises, the Broadway stage!

But what makes the night truly magical is what it represents. Every performance helps raise funds for organizations that support individuals and families impacted by autism across the United States. From sensory-friendly theatre experiences to arts education and job training programs, the impact of this one evening reaches far beyond the stage.

Since 2016, Arts for Autism has raised over $400,000, brought 1,491 students to perform on Broadway alongside 262 Broadway stars, and donated 51 grants.

One student once shared that while waiting in the wings, heart pounding, they realized something unexpected: “I’m not just here just to sing. I’m here to help others feel seen.”

The realization that their voice could help someone else is the heart of Arts for Autism. For one unforgettable night, a Broadway stage becomes more than a stage. It becomes a bridge between young artists’ dreams and real, lasting impact.

After taking part in ETA’s annual Arts for Autism event, one dance educator shared what the experience meant for her students, both on stage and beyond.

“I have tried to write this email several times but no words that I type convey the appreciation I feel for what you made possible for my dancers.

Thank you for making this happen. Thank you for lifting up so many children/youth and allowing them to shine bright.  Thank you for providing an opportunity for my “typical” dancers to create a community of inclusion….making “helping, dancing, and being buddies” with our “special needs dancers” popular.  These are what I call pebbles in a pond….the ripples go far beyond the first reaction.  These young people will go to school, dance, events, etc. and understand what true inclusion looks and feels like because they have experienced it first hand.  Not to mention the gift we gave all of our parents that truly understand how big this opportunity is for their child.

Thank you for throwing that pebble into our pond. :)”

That is the magic of Arts for Autism. One moment on stage creates a ripple effect that carries into classrooms, communities, and everyday life.