Emory University announced on April 2 that it will host its sixth annual Autism Celebration Month this April, featuring a series of events to recognize and celebrate autistic and neurodivergent students, researchers, and community members. The month-long program is organized by the Emory Autism Center and a neurodiverse planning committee of students, staff, and faculty. This year’s theme is “Persistence and Pride,” with both in-person and virtual activities scheduled throughout the month.
The initiative aims to highlight the talents, perspectives, and achievements of autistic individuals while fostering inclusion across Emory’s campuses. Matt Segall, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and chair of Emory’s Autism Celebration Month planning committee said: “Autism Celebration Month is an opportunity to honor the perspectives, talents and contributions of autistic students and community members, while also creating space for connection, visibility and belonging.” Segall added: “This year’s theme, ‘Persistence and Pride,’ reflects both the strength of our community and the perseverance often required for achievement and advocacy.”
Events include an Atlanta Campus Special Interest Showcase on April 2 at Cannon Chapel underpass where attendees can meet autistic students through presentations; a PowerPoint Night at Oxford Campus on April 2 at Phi Gamma Hall; a virtual Autistic Student Panel on April 7; a Virtual Research Symposium featuring neurodivergent researchers on April 16; as well as an invitation-only Autistic Student Graduation Celebration at Carlos Museum on April 20.
Sponsors for this year’s celebration include the Emory University Office of the Provost, Emory Autism Center, Emory Autism Advocacy Organization, Emory University School of Medicine, and Atlanta Autism Consortium. More information about these events is available through the university’s dedicated event page which will be updated throughout April. Supporters are invited to contribute via Emory’s Momentum campaign dedicated to this cause.
The series underscores ongoing efforts within higher education institutions to foster greater awareness about autism spectrum conditions while providing opportunities for recognition within academic communities.
