President Lisa Vollendorf discusses autism-supportive education on Presidents Forum

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — OCTOBER 15, 2024) President Lisa Vollendorf published an op-ed for the Presidents Forum to discuss Empire State University’s commitment to autism-supportive education.

SUNY Empire was designated as a first-of-its-kind autism-supportive institution in 2022 and the university continuously works to support neurodivergent students through flexible, virtual education. As the rate of autism in the United States continues to grow, SUNY Empire has made it a priority to provide support systems through the Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports (CAARES).

“Before I joined SUNY Empire, I did not have any training or education in supporting individuals with autism,” President Lisa Vollendorf said. “I did not fully understand the role that online institutions could play in helping expand access to higher education for autistic and neurodivergent students, faculty, and staff. I now have a deeper appreciation for a simple fact: a commitment to inclusion requires a commitment to building universal design into all aspects of our teaching, learning, and operations.”

Vollendorf strongly encouraged university leaders to examine their systems and see how they can better serve learners of all backgrounds and expand access to higher education.

“At Empire State University, we believe that online institutions are uniquely positioned to expand educational opportunities to learners from all backgrounds, including the growing number of autistic and neurodivergent individuals in the United States today,” Vollendorf said. “I invite others to join us to create truly inclusive colleges and universities that are welcoming to all.”