CAARES holds Neurodivergent in College series
(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — SEPTEMBER 12, 2024) Empire State University’s Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports (CAARES) recently collaborated with the Saratoga Springs Public Library for an online educational series, Neurodivergent in College: Navigating the Transition from High School. The series focused on how to support neurodivergent individuals, their families, and professionals supporting neurodivergent individuals in K-12, higher education, and outside of the classroom.
“We were excited to offer the presentation series because we are committed to sharing accurate information for free that centers the experience of neurodivergent individuals,” Lauren Allen, assistant director of the Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports, said. “Often, the experiences of neurodivergent individuals or individuals with disabilities may be overshadowed by the voices of others within presentations and resources. Within our series, we offered a collaboration between neurodivergent college students and alumni as well as higher education professionals. For a prospective or current college student, hearing directly from others who share their experiences builds community and belonging.”
Empire State University is designated an autism-supportive institution by the Anderson Center for Autism. Support for neurodivergent students is embedded within the university’s culture, infrastructure, and planning to create an inclusive environment and improved academic experience. Allen said CAARES works to offer resources and support on day one for current and incoming SUNY Empire students.
“CAARES is able to connect with students upon their entry to SUNY Empire. During their orientation at the university, students can indicate interest in connecting with CAARES and, since launching this last year, CAARES has reached out to hundreds of students,” Allen said. “Connecting with students in this way has allowed CAARES to proactively share a number of resources, information, options to connection with other students, as well as ensure students know they are part of a neurodivergent community here at SUNY Empire.”
Recordings of the sessions can be found on YouTube:
- Session 1: Thinking about College
- Session 2: Advocacy, Accommodations, and Supports
- Session 3: Academic Success
- Session 4: Health and Social Emotional Well-Being
If you are interested in connecting with SUNY Empire’s Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports, you can contact them at Autism@sunyempire.edu or check out their website.