Beautiful Minds: Neurodiversity, Equity and Inclusion Conference
This conference culminated as a result of a group of staff volunteers seeking to make a difference in a space that touches each of us in various ways. As the team navigated, researched, and connected in this space, we teamed up with a group of Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) students and built relationships with institutional partners as we champion and advocate for our University community members who navigate neurodiversity.
With the generous support of our institutional sponsors, we are excited to bring you a conference that focuses on building awareness and support for the University of Michigan’s community that navigates the challenges of neurodiversity. As we worked on the project, we have learned that there are many in our community who navigate, interact, and experience the invisible variations of capabilities and communication within neurodiversity. We understand that when you meet one person who is neurodivergent, you have met only one person who is neurodivergent.
Throughout this process we have also connected with many in our U-M community, we have heard your stories, your concerns and your ideas. By far, the feedback we heard most often centers around support and awareness for those who may navigate neurodiversity, whether it is self, our loved ones, co-workers, faculty, students, patients, etc. The aim of our work seeks to bring awareness to neurodiversity at our institution and identify resources to supports inclusive environments, that champion all community members and bring the dialog of neurodiversity, equity and inclusion to the forefront.
Through this work, we’ve also connected with the University of Melbourne (Australia) Neurodiversity Project and Stanford Neurodiversity Project as we look to evolve our own efforts. During the conference we will highlight work taking place at the University of Melbourne and Stanford University, and highlight initiatives underway at the University of Michigan.
The Conference will take place April 11, 2024, at the North Campus Research Center (NCRC) Building 18 Auditorium. The event is in-person and will also be live streamed.
Registration is free to the University of Michigan community and we look forward to seeing you there.
Sincerely,
HOPE Team Members (volunteer): Sebastian Beckley, Liam Benton, Andy Brosius, Annalisa DeGuzman, Kathy Ignatoski, Beth Jakubowski, Chris Laurinec, Christine Lightner, Sally Mo, Aimee Piehl, Jenna Santamaria, Jack Seel, Sara Turner, and Sandy Zalmout
REGISTRATION BEGINS MARCH 11, 2024
Much work lies ahead and your support is greatly appreciated as we continue to move ahead. Please use the “support” button below to donate to and support this important work. Your contribution and support matters. For more information, please contact [email protected].