In recognition of Autism Acceptance Month, IDEAL IT’s Neurodiversity in IT Program group hosted an online event on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
Michael Fox, CIO council co-sponsor of the Neurodiversity in IT Program, and CIO for Land, Buildings, and Real Estate (LBRE), set the tone by providing context. “Finding the right career, the right culture, and the right accommodations are keys to success, and that's what we're dedicated to through the Neurodiversity in IT Program.”
This event focused on neurodiversity recruitment and retention, along with allyship and strategies for creating more inclusive work environments. The event featured a fireside chat with guest speakers Michael Bernick, JD, from the Autism Center of Northern California, and Rebecca Beam, founder, and CEO of Zavikon, and was facilitated by Jonathon Lee, Neurodiversity Program co-lead and IT Support Manager at Stanford LBRE.
This chat focused on providing resources for the employment of neurodiverse individuals and ways in which we as a community can recognize the unique strengths and talents that neurodivergent individuals can bring to the workplace. An open Q&A session followed the fireside chat.
During the Q&A session, participants had the opportunity to ask Michael Bernick and Rebecca Beam questions about their experiences and perspectives. The discussion covered a range of topics, including strategies for advocating for neurodivergent individuals.
Watch the Autism and Allyship event here.
Get involved
If you are interested in becoming more involved in the Neurodiversity program and/or joining the task team, please contact Angelo Celeri or Jonathon Lee at neurodiversity-it-leads@lists.stanford.edu
