��ɫ��

Autism Acceptance Month takes place every April to help people understand and accept people with autism.

Dr. Lisa Audet, the Neurodiversity Research Initiative director, which works to advance research in the area of neurodiversity, said she hopes the Kent community takes the time to understand people with autism instead of relying on preconceived judgments.

Cultivating an acceptance on-campus community

Student Accessibility Services Director Amanda Feaster said the ��ɫ�� community can support autistic individuals by “embracing the idea that there is no ‘normal.’

“Different behaviors and different ways of thinking are part of what make a rich community, and those differences deserve to be celebrated,” Feaster said. “We should focus on creating an environment that is flexible and inclusive enough for everyone to do what they need to do to learn and live happily.”

Students can take advantage of a wide variety of academic resources on campus, such as academic coaching to help with executive functioning support and developing good study habits.

The Autism Initiative for Research, Education, and Outreach, as part of the College of Education, Health and Human Services, also runs a group called “Simply Social,” Feaster said.

Audet said she hopes her initiative will contribute to a welcoming, inclusive and supportive campus environment. She wants to help individuals finish their degrees and support them vocationally and socially after graduation.

“I would remind students with autism that everyone is nervous about beginning college, so it is nothing to be embarrassed about,” Feaster said. “The needs of neurodivergent students may be different, but no student really knows what to expect or what they need at the beginning. College doesn’t need to look the same for everyone, either.”