David White, Jr. Champions Disability Awareness During Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Neurodiversity Week at UNR: Events Highlight Inclusivity and Empowerment

The University of Nevada, Reno is gearing up to celebrate Neurodiversity Celebration Week on campus from 17 March. This global initiative challenges stereotypes surrounding neurological differences and promotes understanding. The week will change how neurodivergent individuals are perceived by highlighting their unique skills and talents. It encourages the development of inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate diversity and empower everyone. The University’s Neurodiversity Alliance, composed of dedicated board members, actively organises events and provides resources for students, faculty, and staff to support this initiative.

Board members Cheyenne Magpantay, Jim Cherney, Dawn Snell, and Z Li emphasized the importance of Neurodiversity Celebration Week. They stated that it challenges misconceptions about neurological differences, highlights diverse ways of thinking and learning, and fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment. The week celebrates the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent individuals while promoting equity, understanding, and belonging both on campus and beyond.

Neurodiversity Celebration Week Events:

On March 17, a Neurodiversity Social event will take place, featuring a presentation by David White, Jr. on the establishment of a Disability Cultural Center. Additionally, the premiere of the documentary The Muralist will be followed by a discussion with artist Connor Fogal and other distinguished experts. On the next day, March 18, an interactive workshop on crafting sensory tools for enhancing focus and relaxation will be held at Great Basin Hall. On March 19, a discussion on inclusive teaching strategies for neurodivergent students will be conducted by Sarah Cummings, PhD, and Wenzhen Li, PhD, at the Joe Crowley Student Union. Throughout the week, the University Libraries will offer electronic access to a curated digital book display featuring literature on neurodiversity, accessibility, and the lived experiences of neurodivergent authors.

David White, Jr., a Ph.D. student in Special Education and Disability Studies, will share insights on March 17 as part of the event. He is leading the development of the state's first higher education Disability Cultural Center and is a member of the University’s Neurodiversity Alliance. White, a former Paralympic-classified snowboarder and consultant with the Nevada Department of Inclusive Education, uses his experience as a disabled, neurodivergent individual to promote a more inclusive disability culture. His work focuses on improving disability justice awareness and advocating for greater access, both in education and through his athletic pursuits.

White reflected on his academic journey, sharing that during his early years, including his undergraduate studies, he felt ashamed of his learning disabilities. The stigma prevented him from disclosing his identity, and seeking resources, and impacted his self-perception. He believed for a long time that he was the only student on a campus of over 20,000 who learned differently. David White, Jr. highlighted that celebrating neurodiversity for a full week at the University of Nevada, Reno empowers students and fosters community. He believes sharing personal neurodiversity stories strengthens the network of diverse thinkers. White feels supported by the Disability Resource Center staff, particularly his disability advisor, who recognizes him as a person first. He also values the support from his academic advisor, who has created space for him to embrace his neurodiversity openly.

White reflected that before transferring to the University of Nevada, Reno, he felt isolated due to his learning disabilities. However, he found pride in his neurodiversity at the university and is impressed by the progress made, thanks to the Neurodiversity Alliance. He also emphasized that neurodiversity affects many, with 1 in 5 people having a neurodiverse diagnosis. Neurodiversity Celebration Week at the University of Nevada, Reno exemplifies a meaningful step toward fostering inclusivity, breaking stereotypes, and empowering neurodivergent individuals within the academic community and beyond.

Editor's Note:

The University of Nevada, Reno's upcoming Neurodiversity Celebration Week, a significant initiative aimed at challenging stereotypes and fostering inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals. By highlighting events, resources, and personal insights from key advocates like David White, Jr., the piece captures the essence of creating an equitable culture that celebrates diverse ways of thinking and learning. The efforts of the Neurodiversity Alliance and its members reflect the university’s commitment to empowering neurodivergent students, faculty, and staff. Through a variety of engaging activities, such as workshops, discussions, and curated literary resources, the celebration underscores the importance of valuing neurodiverse perspectives.

According to Skoobuzz, the personal journey of David White, Jr., a driving force behind these efforts, adds depth to the narrative and inspires broader conversations on disability justice, belonging, and community support.