Our Story
The University of Michigan Neurodiversity Project grew out of a conversation between colleagues (Sebastian Beckley, Kathleen Ignatoski, Chris Laurinec, and Sandy Zalmout) who are each touched by neurodiversity in very different ways. As conversations took root, and other colleagues began to share stories, we realized we had an opportunity to use our voices and platforms to advocate for awareness.
These team members volunteered their time, collaborated with students and faculty, cultivated institutional relationships, and built global alliances, all with the goal of bringing the conversation of neurodiversity front and center. What has emerged is tremendous institutional support across our entire institution and all of our University of Michigan campuses. More importantly, it has also opened the door for our neurodivergent community members to claim their space, to be heard and uplifted, to be supported and recognized and seeded opportunities for civic engagement and leadership.
There is still much work to be done, and we hope that you will join us and share in the journey as we work toward supporting all our communities.
Vision
We envision a University of Michigan where neurodiversity is embraced as an essential part of human diversity and where every community member has the support, understanding and sense of belonging needed to thrive. Through sustained collaboration and cultural change, the Neurodiversity Project seeks to build a more neuro-inclusive university for faculty, staff and students, patients, families and allies.
Engagement
Annual Conference
The Beautiful Minds Conference is the Neurodiversity Project's flagship annual gathering. Each year it brings together faculty, staff, students, community partners, and international collaborators to elevate neurodivergent voices, share research, and advance neuro-inclusion across higher education.
View conference impact recap →Collaborations
Building regional, national and global collaborative networks that offer educational resources, community building experiences, shared knowledge and more. Our goal is to provide access to supports and resources.
Educational Outreach
As conversations on neurodiversity continue to grow, there is much to learn and many questions to address. The Neurodiversity Project team has become a resource for communities and organizations on their neurodiversity journey.