Columbia, MO: $54.8M Thompson Center for Autism/Neurodevelopment opens at U of MO

April 24, 2026, U of MO: Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment at University of Missouri to hold grand opening; Mayor of Columbia to proclaim 'Autism Friendly City'

The Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, a nationally recognized destination center for autism and neurodevelopmental care at the University of Missouri, will celebrate the grand opening of its new $54.8 million, 74,000-square-foot facility, enabling significant expansion of its comprehensive services. 

The new building increases the number of patient rooms and expands top-tier staffing, empowering the Thompson Center to address rapidly increasing demand by serving twice as many patients each year. The new Thompson Center project reflects a nationwide collaborative effort, supported by more than $9 million in private contributions from individuals, organizations, and foundations to the Thompson Foundation; a $31.5 million appropriation from the State of Missouri; and continual, integral support from the University of Missouri and University of Missouri Health Care.

A celebration of the commitment of more than 45 active Columbia businesses across various industries to support neurodiverse clients and employees by completing Autism Friendly Business training through the Thompson Center. 

The Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment is a nationally recognized destination center for comprehensive autism and neurodevelopmental care at the University of Missouri. With its unique multidisciplinary structure, the Thompson Center provides world-class clinical care and therapeutic services for over 4,500 patients each year, totaling 18,000 visits annually; conducts groundbreaking translational research; and educates professionals and communities through a diverse range of training programs. Supported by the Thompson Foundation for Autism & Neurodevelopment, the University of Missouri, the State of Missouri, and other generous funding partners, the Thompson Center exemplifies a shared commitment to expanding access to compassionate, evidence-based neurodevelopmental care, right in the heart of Missouri.