Students in Misericordia University's newly formed chapter of Autism Speaks U designated April 7 as "Light Misericordia Up Blue Day" to shine a light on autism and show support of Autism Speaks.

The students organized blue exterior lighting on a number of campus buildings, including the Mary Kintz Bevevino Library and the Mercy Hall Bell Tower.They also sold blue T-shirts and encouraged everyone in the campus community to wear blue that day the color chosen to signify autism awareness.The Light Misericordia Up Blue event was held in alignment with the international campaign initiated by Autism Speaks, the world's largest autism science and advocacy organization, to raise awareness and research funds for the disability of autism.Lori Charney, assistant professor of occupational therapy, is adviser to Misericordia's Autism Speaks U chapter and helped coordinate the project. Miranda Amey of Tamaqua participated in the event. Proceeds from the shirt sale were donated to Autism Speaks.