A Hinds Community College student has received statewide recognition for being an inspiration to people with autism.

Ryan Robinson, 19, was given the TEAAM Championship Award on March 2 during a luncheon at Pearl River Resort in Philadelphia.

&#8220I’m honored that I was chosen,” said Robinson, a 2004 graduate of Vicksburg High School.

TEAAM, an acronym for Together Enhancing Autism Awareness in Mississippi, is a nonprofit, volunteer organization composed of parents, family members, educators and service providers who work live or work with the autistic. The organization aims to improve understanding of the autistm through extensive training and to help Mississippians with the disorder excel in everyday life.

The Champion Award recognizes individuals with autism who, despite their disabilities, have made significant progress in achieving their goals.

Autism is a brain condition that interferes with a person’s ability to communicate with others. Signs of autism vary widely and usually develop before age 3.

Scientists have not determined the cause of autism. Some individuals need assistance in almost all aspects of life, while others are able to function at very high levels and can attend school in a regular classroom.

At age 10, Robinson was diagnosed with Asperger’s disorder, a high-functioning form of autism that is characterized by social isolation and eccentric behavior. The condition impairs a person’s social interaction and non-verbal communication.

&#8220The doctors told us that this form of autism would make him slower at grasping things,” said Patti Robinson, Ryan’s mother. &#8220It didn’t affect him academically. He is a brilliant student. He just doesn’t have the social skills that a person his age would normally have.”

While in high school, Ryan was a member of the National Honor Society. He was named to Who’s Who Among American High School Students from 2001 through 2004, and in 2003 he was a recipient of the United States Achievement Academy Mathematics Award.

Robinson is taking classes on the Vicksburg and Raymond campuses of Hinds where he is majoring in graphic design.

Patti Robinson and her husband, Mike, say the award reflects their son’s character.

&#8220He doesn’t let his disability slow him down or stop him from pursuing his dream,” Patti Robinson said.