Union County Review

Kean University graduate Aidan Allman-Cooper ’24 has transformed his experiences as an autistic individual into a career focused on education and advocacy. Allman-Cooper, who graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in history education and certification to teach students with disabilities, intends to work at a special needs school post-graduation. His future plans include attending law school to combine his “passion for advocacy” with legal expertise.

“The combination of history and education allows me to engage with subjects I love while making a tangible difference in students’ lives,” said Allman-Cooper, of Watchung. “Being autistic and physically disabled, I've encountered numerous hurdles. Kean presented a supportive environment that felt like the right place to foster my academic and personal growth. It has indeed been one of the best decisions of my life.”

After experiencing bullying in high school, Allman-Cooper founded SECA Organization LLC, an educational consulting company, and a pro bono clinic aimed at assisting special needs students and their families. These initiatives help navigate complex education matters such as Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

In 2020, at age 18, he co-authored "This is Autism," a collection of personal stories highlighting diverse experiences within the autism community. In 2022, he was recognized as Outstanding Student Human Rights Activist at Kean’s Human Rights Conference for his philanthropic efforts, which also include serving as an officer for the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children.

“Being awarded the Outstanding Student Human Rights Activist of the Year Award was one of the most humbling, positive experiences of my life,” he said. “I am grateful to all of the people who supported me and never gave up on me—my family, friends, the wonderful people at Kean, and all of the families and children within the special needs community.”

Allman-Cooper credited his mentors at Kean for supporting him throughout his educational journey. He highlighted College of Education Adjunct Clinical Supervisor Jean Perkins as particularly impactful during his two semesters of student teaching at Union High School.

Perkins described him as a well-prepared and engaging student teacher who consistently wore a jacket and tie to school and demonstrated extensive knowledge about his subject matter. She noted that he created an informative civics unit for an AP Government class that engaged students effectively.

“Aidan is a most gifted and able young man who is aware of what he often terms as blessings and will offer them generously to others,” Perkins said. “I have every confidence that he will accomplish his present goals and will continue to pursue goals yet unknown.”