Abstract

Dr. Marilyn C. Augustyn is a developmental-behavioural paediatrician, Professor of Pediatrics, and Director of the Division of Developmental and Behavioural Pediatrics at the Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Centre (BMC). I chose her because she is a notable figure with over 30 years of extensive experience in evaluating and caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, learning disabilities, and intellectual disabilities, particularly within trauma-informed, culturally diverse, and urban healthcare settings. Throughout her career, Dr. Augustyn has demonstrated a deep commitment to improving developmental outcomes for children by integrating clinical care, research, and advocacy. She has played a key role in advancing evidencebased approaches to early identification and management of developmental and behavioural challenges. Her work often emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader psychosocial environment of children, including exposure to trauma, socioeconomic barriers, and family stressors, which significantly influence developmental trajectories. In addition to her clinical responsibilities, she is an influential educator who mentors medical students, residents, and fellows, shaping the next generation of paediatricians. Her leadership at BMC has strengthened multidisciplinary collaboration and improved access to compassionate, family-centred care for vulnerable populations. Dr. Augustyn’s contributions highlight her enduring dedication to child health and developmental well-being. Key Messages:Dr. Marilyn C. Augustyn is an exemplary developmental behavioural paediatrician whose career embodies interdisciplinary excellence, compassionate care for underserved communities, and leadership in academic pediatrics. Her contributions including innovations in family navigation, trauma-informed care, and developmental research highlight how dedication, advocacy, and scholarship can advance the health and well-being of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

• 1.   Augustyn Marilyn C., Frank Deborah A. Developmental and behavioral consequences of prenatal drug exposure. Pediatrics 1998; 101(2): 364–368.
• 2.   Augustyn Marilyn C., Parker Samantha. Outcomes of early intervention programs in developmental pediatrics: A review. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2005; 26(4): 276–285.
• 3.   Augustyn Marilyn C., Zuckerman Barry. Developmental screening in urban primary care: Barriers and opportunities. Clin Pediatr 2011; 50(3): 203–209.
• 4.   Augustyn Marilyn C., Rosenberg Jessica. Trauma-informed developmental care in underserved pediatric populations. JAMA Pediatr 2015; 169(11): 1025–1032.
• 5.   Augustyn Marilyn C., Martinez Sophia. Family navigation models to reduce delays in autism diagnosis: Results from a randomized controlled trial. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2020; 41(8): 610–618.