Neurodiversity at Rowan

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is the full range of variations in cognition, learning, behavior, and socialization that exists within the population. Individuals identifying as neurodivergent may include those labeled with:

Dyspraxia
Dyslexia
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Dyscalculia
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Tourette Syndrome

*Infographics from Erinhuman.com

Definition of Terms

Ableism – a set of beliefs or practices that discriminate against people with disabilities

Neurodiversity – is a viewpoint that brain differences are normal, rather than deficits. It is a concept where neurological differences are recognized and respected as any other human variation

Neurotypical – not having developmental, intellectual, psychiatric or learning disabilities

Neurodivergent – having developmental, intellectual, psychiatric or learning disabilities

Neurodiversity Movement: 

The neurodiversity movement is a social justice movement that is based on a philosophy for embracing different ways of thinking and behaving as normal variations of being human. The term was coined by autistic self-advocate Judy Singer in the late 1990’s.

*Infographics from Erinhuman.com

Rowan University Neurodiversity Task Force

The Rowan University Neurodiversity Task Force was established to research and design the future multidimensional Center for Neurodiversity at Rowan University. The Taskforce is comprised of representatives from all 3 campuses, as well as students and parents. 

The Neurodiversity Task Force invites faculty, staff and students to participate in an online survey on Neurodiversity as we examine our current resources and develop recommendations for campus-wide improvement.  Your insight and input will help to shape our future plans for a Neurodiversity Center at Rowan: Go to Neurodiversity at Rowan University to complete the survey.

The goal of this survey is to gain a better understanding from faculty, staff and students on current experiences, resources, supports and recommendations for improvement as it relates to neurodiversity at Rowan University. 

Download & share the neurodiversity survey flyer:

Interested in a faculty/staff Neurodiversity group?

Affinity Group

Affinity groups consist of individuals who are connected by similar identities, backgrounds, experiences, and/or interests. The purpose of affinity groups is to create inclusive spaces for community members to explore their commonalities, grow professionally, and build community.

Affinity Groups provide:

• Sense of community that is supportive and respectful of members
• Opportunities for professional and personal development for group members
• Space for employee’s concerns, with the goal of creating a more positive work environment
• Opportunities for mentoring and networking for group members to explore their similar identities, backgrounds, experiences, and/or interests.

The Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is seeking faculty and staff members interested in developing a Neurodiversity affinity group, if interested, please contact Dr. Penny McPherson-Myers at mcphersonp@rowan.edu

Some other higher education institutions with a focus on neurodiversity are:

University of Laverne: https://education.laverne.edu/neurodiversity/

William and Mary: https://www.wm.edu/sites/neurodiversity/

Landmark College: https://www.landmark.edu/center-for-neurodiversity