Jamie Burke

Communication Specialist

Jamie Burke is 38 years old and a graduate of Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the College of Arts and Science. Jamie has used supported typing since age five, and has progressed from supported typing to independent typing, and typing with two hands.  At age 12, he became able to use his voice to read his typing and continues to develop useful and reliable speech.  He has been a frequent presenter at Syracuse University School of Education and at conferences throughout the United States. He has traveled to England, Wales, and Germany to speak about inclusion and the process of typed communication and the life-changing impact it can have for those who have difficulty speaking.


In the spring of 2002, Syracuse University produced a video written and narrated by Jamie, titled, “Inside the Edge, A Journey to Using Speech through Typing.”  This video won the TASH Image Award in 2002, which honors those who challenge stereotypical beliefs of those with disabilities.  Jamie is a regular attendee of the Syracuse Symphony, enjoys reading, theater, vintage movies, swimming, bowling, and hiking. He is a member of the National Honor Society and currently serves on the Board for the Autism National Committee. He has appeared in People and Time magazines, and CNN. Jamie continues to advocate for typed communication as a gateway to speech, literacy, and connection and continues to support communication training. He is an active advocate and shares this journey at conferences and classrooms throughout the United States.  He attributes much of his life’s success to years of innovative therapies, and most importantly, to full access of regular education classrooms.