Each year, the TASH Conference brings together a diverse community of stakeholders who gain information, learn about resources, and connect with others across the country to strengthen the disability field. This year’s conference theme, “Be Creative - Innovative Solutions for an Inclusive Life,” reminds us to think outside the box during times of uncertainty. Creativity, innovation, and determination can pave the way for meaningful and inclusive lives for people with disabilities.
This presentation will describe one California city college's innovative approach to supporting neurodivergent students through collaborative student-professional partnership. City college students play a central role in helping design and direct the supports they deem helpful and necessary while professionals value their expertise regarding their own lived experience and educational and social needs. The presentation will explore how these partnerships have contributed to building meaningful support for neurodivergent students including individual counseling sessions, social groups, and a student-led Neurodiversity Club. Students have also partnered with professionals to inform trainings for faculty in order to help them better meet student needs. Following a description of the programming, the presenter will seek input and ideas from session attendees on other ways to increase meaningful post-secondary student support through culturally competent student-professional partnership.
