Neurodiversity in the World of Work

Monday, June 24, 2019 | 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Meeting Rooms 22/23
Members: $55 | Non-Members: $75

Get the most out of your conference experience by attending this hot-topic pre-conference workshop! Registration is required and tickets can be added to your conference registration. If you have already registered and would like to add on the pre-conference workshop, please contact EACE Headquarters at [email protected].

Workshop Description

Workplaces involve many different kinds of diversity (i.e., race, gender, sexual orientation). Neurodiversity values differences in how people think and work. “Neurodiversity” as an umbrella term can include ADHD, autism/Asperger’s syndrome, or a learning difference (e.g., dyslexia). Neurodiverse individuals possess unique perspectives and skills that employers are seeking such as an adherence to rules and a strong attention to detail. However, a majority of these individuals are unemployed or underemployed because workplaces currently are not set up to accommodate their specific working styles and needs. In this training, you will learn how to see neurodiversity as a form of workplace diversity and gain a deeper understanding of how to see autism in the workplace from the perspective of neurodiversity. Through a panel, case studies and discussions, you will learn how to best support neurodiverse job seekers and employees at your college or workplace. This is a foundational workshop that supports colleges and employers on how to access unique talent that neurodiverse employees bring to organizations and how to build a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Participants will:

• Gain a better understanding of neurodiversity
• Gain a better understanding about Autism Spectrum Disorders and related profiles
• Learn about the benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace
• Learn about the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals during the job search process and in the workplace
• Discuss and develop strategies and techniques to support neurodiverse job seekers and employees
• Discover how college campuses and employers are currently supporting neurodiversity

Lead Presenter

Leslie O'Brien
AspireWorks Program Manager, Massachusetts General Hospital/MassGeneral Hospital for Children

Leslie O'Brien, LICSW, developed and directs Aspire Works and its Employer Training and Consulting programs. In addition to individual consulting with supervisors and employees, her programs provide over 50 area employers with carefully matched neurodiverse interns and the mentorship that leads to success. She facilitates corporate workshops such as Neurodiverse Hiring and Interviewing Practices and Feedback & Performance Evaluations for Neurodiverse Employees.

Co-Facilitator

Bridget McElroy
Assistant Director of Program Support, Saint Joseph's University, Kinney Center for Autism Education & Support

As Assistant Director of Program Support, Bridget works with students with autism in the ASPIRE program, providing them with the individualized case management and counseling to help them excel both academically and socially at Saint Joseph's University. She also oversees ASPIRE's Peer Mentoring program. Bridget graduated from Georgetown University in 2014 with a degree in psychology, and from the University of Pennsylvania in 2016 with her Master of Social Work. She is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania.

Panelists

A panel featuring college and employers discussing programs and tips for supporting Neurodiversity will be featured. Panelist information coming soon.