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Frist Center Partners with InclYOUsion Summit 2023; Sees 110,000 Participants on Livestream Over Three Days
Sep. 23, 2023—On 20th – 23rd September 2023, the Frist Center partnered with Indian non-profit Kidskintha to conduct the first International Neurodiversity at Work conference. The conference saw 47 speakers across 8 time zones speak about neurodiversity in the workplace. Themes such as education, transitions to work, success strategies, and global initiatives for hiring were discussed over the three-day...
Vanderbilt Researchers Seeking to Aid Neurodiverse Adults Receive Prestigious NSF CIVIC Stage 2 Award
Sep. 21, 2023—Two Vanderbilt researchers are part of a collaborative effort receiving a distinguished Civic Innovation Challenge (CIVIC) Stage 2 Award from the National Science Foundation that will be used to improve equity for neurodiverse adults. Principal Investigator for the team is Nilanjan Sarkar, David K. Wilson Professor of Engineering and chair of the department of mechanical...
Partnership with The Precisionists: Career Opportunities for 500 Neurodiverse Individuals in Nashville
Sep. 20, 2023—On September 19th, FCAI partner the Precisionists announced the expansion of their neurodiversity employment program to Nashville, hoping to bring career opportunities to 500 individuals in the area. The Precisionists is a Wilmington, Delaware-based company that assesses, trains and employs neurodiverse adults to carry out project-based consulting work. Of the partnership, FCAI director Keivan Stassun...
Event Announcement: A Night of Music, PHotography, PHriends, and PHun!
Sep. 13, 2023—We are excited to advertise AbleVoices’ very first fundraising event to benefit their programming for youth and adults with disabilities. Event Description: The evening promises to be a delightful experience filled with music, photography and much more. You will be moved by musical performances by singer-songwriter, Jessica Willis-Fisher and autism self-advocates Andrew Braach and Drew...
Special Lecture at VKC on 09/11 – Design and Development of VR HMDs With/For Autistic Groups
Sep. 7, 2023—Announcing a Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Special Lecture: “Design and Development of VR HMDs With/For Autistic Groups; Examples of Applied Virtual Reality (VR) Led by Autistic Input and Feedback.” Presented by Dr. Nigel Newbutt, Ph.D. When: Monday, September 11, 12:00-1:00 p.m. CT Where: Room 241, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center/One Magnolia Circle Building (Virtual Option Available) Nigel Newbutt,...
Neurodiversity Inspired Science and Engineering Fellow Hari Srinivansan Publishes Op-Ed In Newsweek
Aug. 11, 2023—This week, Neurodiversity Inspired Science and Engineering Fellow Hari Srinivasan once again published an amazing opinion piece in a leading US magazine, this time discussing the “disheartening lack of progress in practical solutions for autistics” in a piece entitled, “The Dual Approach for Autism.” In the article, Hari states, “Within the autism community, two seemingly...
Deputy Director Dave Caudel Interviewed for CMA Today Article
Aug. 7, 2023—Dave Caudel, Frist Center for Autism and Innovation Deputy Director, was interviewed for an article released in CMA today entitled “Opening Minds: Unlock Strategies for Making Workplaces Inclusive of Neurodiversity”. Part of the article discusses accommodations in the workplace and how accommodations are often provided, unconsciously, for everyone. Dr. Caudel makes this point clear when...
NISE Fellow Hari Srinivasan Writes Op-Ed for Time that Discusses the Gaps in Autism Research Participation
Aug. 1, 2023—This week, Neurodiversity Inspired Science and Engineering Fellow, Hari Srinivasan published an op-ed in Time discussing the gaps in autism research regarding the recruitment of research participants. Hari states: “This, in itself, contrasts with many autistics like me who are excluded from autism research due to the complexity of our issues, or because of the...
NISE Fellow Hari Srinivasan Posts Op-Ed in Fortune on the Importance of Remote Work in the Disabled Community
Jul. 28, 2023—This week, Neurodiversity Inspired Science and Engineering Fellow Hari Srinivasan published an article in Fortune entitled: “Flexible work critics are using the same arguments that were used against disabled ramps and closed captioning. Equity of access should never be optional.” In the piece, Hari discusses the arguments now being made to roll back remote work...
FCAI Deputy Director Interviewed for Neurodiversity Empowerment YouTube
Jul. 24, 2023—Last week, Dave Caudel, Frist Center for Autism and Innovation Deputy Director, was interviewed for Episode 88 of the Dr. Gwen Empowered YouTube channel. This YouTube channel seeks to “empower neurodiverse and disabled individuals, their support systems, and anyone who deeply cares about this community.” Dr. Caudel was interviewed about how FCAI is working to transform...
FCAI NISE Fellow Publishes Article in Psychology Today
Jul. 14, 2023—This week, Frist Center for Autism and Innovation Neurodiversity Inspired Science and Engineering Fellow Hari Srinivasan published a piece in Psychology Today called “Dignity Remains Elusive for Many Disabled People”. In this article Hari describes his experiences as a visibly disabled neurodivergent individual. He describes his frustration at feeling infantilized in everyday interactions, such as...
Recording Available for FCAI June Webinar
Jul. 4, 2023—On June 29, 2023, the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation monthly webinar series partnered with virtual reality company Floreo to discuss Workforce Skill Development and Virtual Reality. The panel was moderated by FCAI project coordinator Jessica Schonhut-Stasik and included four panelists (see bios below). We hope you enjoy this engaging conversation from these enthusiastic...
Recordings Available for “Disrupting Ableism and Advancing STEM: A National Leadership Summit”
Jun. 29, 2023—In July 2023, the National Academies of Sciences’ Keck Center in Washington D.C. hosted the hybrid “Disrupting Ableism and Advancing STEM: A National Leadership Summit” A host of panels and presentations discussed issues related to accessibility and inclusivity in STEM workplaces for disabled individuals. Dave Caudel, Frist Center for Autism and Innovation Deputy Director was...
Announcing the Frist Center’s June Webinar
Jun. 20, 2023—The Frist Center is excited to announce our June webinar, which will be taking place on Thursday 29th June at 2pm CDT. The panel for this month’s webinar will discuss workforce skill development and how it can be enhanced by virtual reality. The speakers will be Vijay Ravindran, who is the founder and CEO of...
Deputy Director Dave Caudel Features in Article on Neurodivergent Physicists
Jun. 13, 2023—Frist Center for Autism and Innovation Deputy Director Dave Caudel, was recently quoted in a Symmetry article on the struggles faced by neurodivergent physicists. When discussing the loss of talent in physics due to students not receiving appropriate support and understanding Dr. Caudel says: “One of the things that really keeps me up at night...
FCAI May Webinar Now Available on YouTube
May. 26, 2023—The FCAI May Webinar in now available on YouTube!! In this episode, FCAI program manager interviews Dave Thompson of Potentia about Belonging in Neurodiversity. Dave is the Director of Strategic Programs for Potentia Workforce, and works to support companies in becoming more neuroinclusive through training on best practices, as well as recruiting and providing ongoing support...
FCAI Project Coordinator, Jessica Schonhut-Stasik, is Guest on Square Pegs Podcast
May. 26, 2023—“Square Pegs,” is a thought-provoking podcast with engaging content and insightful discussions, surrounding the experiences of neurodiverse graduate students. With a keen focus on promoting diversity and inclusivity, Arash Zaghi brings together a wide range of guests who challenge societal norms and share their unique perspectives. On the latest episode of Square Pegs, Arash interviews...
FCAI May Webinar Announcement
May. 17, 2023—Our May webinar is almost here! Join Frist Center Program Manager Jessica Schonhut-Stasik in conversation with Dave Thompson of Potentia on the subject of Belonging in the Work Place. Date: May 25th 2023 Time: 9am HST / 12pm PDT / 2pm CDT / 3pm EDT Register Here. All of our previous webinars can be found...
Upcoming Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Webinar “Nothing About Us Without Us.”
May. 17, 2023—On May 18th, the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center (VKC) Research Ethics Grand Rounds will be having a webinar panel discussion with a focus on what “Nothing About Us Without Us” can look like within a research setting. The panel will include two VKC researchers and two disability self-advocates who serve on an advisory level for their...
FCAI Director Keivan Stassun One of Four Vanderbilt VUMC Faculty to be Elected as AAAS Members
May. 1, 2023—The American Academy of Arts and Sciences announced the election of four Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center faculty among its 2023 cohort of 270 new members, including Frist Center for Autism and Innovation director Keivan Stassun. The academy is an honorary society that recognizes and celebrates the excellence of its members and an...
Free Virtual Game Design and Employment Skills Workshop and Research Study in Summer 2023
Apr. 30, 2023—This summer Tech Kids Unlimited, a non-profit organization which teaches students how to learn differently, is offering a summer program for autistic youth who wish to participate in a research study to learn game design and employment skills. Participation is free and students will earn up to $115 in gift cards for attending. The workshops...
College Autism Summit Launching Webinar and Training Series for Developing New Autism Support Initiatives on Campus
Apr. 29, 2023—The College Autism Network is very pleased to announce a webinar series designed for higher ed professionals who are starting a new initiative or program on their campus. “Square One: Launching a Campus-Based Autism Support Initiative”. Square One is a three-part virtual instructional series for higher education professionals interested in launching a campus program or initiative...
National Academies to Hold National Leadership Summit on Disrupting Ableism and Advancing STEM
Apr. 28, 2023—On June 5, 2023, the National Academy of Sciences is hosting conversations on Disrupting Ableism and Advancing STEM. The events will begin with a National Leadership Summit on June 5, 2023, in Washington D.C. and online. The launch event will take on a hybrid format on June 5. All remaining events are virtual. They will explore...
NISE Fellow Hari Srinivasan Published Op-Ed in The Boston Globe
Apr. 25, 2023—We are so proud of NISE fellow Hari Shrinivasan, who wrote his first Boston Globe op-ed this week entitled “Is it better to describe someone as ‘autistic’ or as a ‘person with autism?'” In this piece, Hari discusses the importance of intent and context when using identity-first or person-first language; he states: “… it’s important...
The Precisionists, Inc. Announces Pilot with HCA Healthcare to Tap Talents of Neurodiverse Workers
Apr. 24, 2023— We’re excited to announce that one of our partners, The Precisionists, Inc. (TPI), a Wilmington, Delaware-based organization focused on employment for adults with disabilities, is launching a neurodiversity employment program that will provide business support services as part of a pilot program at Nashville- based HCA Healthcare. The program will leverage the talents of a team...
Neurodiversity Inspired Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Application OPEN!
Apr. 18, 2023—We are thrilled to announce the opening of applications for the Neurodiversity Inspired Science and Engineering (NISE) graduate fellowship for the upcoming academic year. NISE is a unique fellowship program that seeks to advance the field of science and engineering by embracing the strengths and talents of neurodiverse individuals. Fellows will receive financial support and...
New Book – A Hidden Force – Out Today
Apr. 11, 2023—Suppose you’re looking for a book that will help you improve your workplace culture, build stronger teams, and create a more inclusive environment. In that case, A Hidden Force by Ed Thompson is worth checking out. As the founder and CEO of Uptimize, a company focusing on building neurodiverse teams Thompson brings a wealth of...
Project PEACES Receives Prestigious Spencer Foundation Grant
Apr. 5, 2023—The Frist Center for Autism and Innovation extends the warmest congratulations to Brad Cox, Associate Professor of Higher Education at Florida State University, and Brett Nachman, Assistant Professor of adult and lifelong learning in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas, whose team has been awarded the prestigious Spencer Foundation...
Deputy Director of FCAI, Tim Vogus, Appears on News Channel 5
Apr. 2, 2023—Last week, our deputy directory Tim Vogus appeared on an episode of Openline through News Channel 5 Nashville, to discuss the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation and take callers’ questions. In his interview, Tim discusses the history and work of the Frist Center, before moving on to answer callers’ questions. We especially loved hearing...
Floreo Launches Immersive Learning Program to Bring VR to Neurodiverse Students
Mar. 28, 2023—We are thrilled to announce that the wonderful behavioral therapy metaverse, Floreo, has launched its Immersive Learning Program, a unique opportunity for schools to bring Floreo to neurodiverse students. In collaboration with Meta, the program is for neurodiverse students ages 13+ and includes free Meta Quest 2 headsets for schools. In addition, Floreo are providing...
Frist Center and Mentra Team Up For Webinar About Accommodations (March 21)
Mar. 19, 2023—The team at the Frist Center are teaming up with our colleagues at the neurodiversity recruitment network Mentra for our first collaborative webinar! Not one to miss! We will start with a talk by Mentra CEO Jhillika Kumar about accommodation resources before moving on to a panel of experts in education and employment to discuss best...
Frist Center Director and Project Manager Featured in Physics Today Article on Accessibility
Mar. 2, 2023—This month’s edition of Physics Today, the flagship publication of the American Institute of Physics and the world’s most influential and closely followed physics magazine, featured the Frist Center’s Director Keivan Stassun, and Frist Center project manager and doctoral candidate in astronomy, Jessica Schonhut-Stasik. The article discusses the growing attention to accessibility for physicists and...
Workforce Readiness and Preparation Camp Accepting Summer Program Applications!
Feb. 1, 2023—It’s the application season and here is another fantastic program opportunity! The Currey Ingram Academy Workforce Readiness and Preparation Camp (WRaP) is accepting applications for this summer! The program will run June 12-30 9am-3pm. The WRaP program is a three-week program for students aged 15 – 20 who are on the Autism Spectrum. Just like...
Frist Center’s Autism Summer Internship Open for Applications!
Jan. 31, 2023—The Frist Center is excited to announce applications are now open for our Autism Summer Internship Program. The program is open to undergraduate students who identify as neurodiverse (either through formal or self-diagnosis). Through this internship, successful applicants will undergo a STEM project with a faculty mentor, under the guidance of the Frist Center for...
New Podcast Exploring the Experiences of Neurodiverse Graduate Students
Jan. 29, 2023—Here at the Frist Center, we love a good podcast; and we are happy to announce the release of a great one! Square Pegs, hosted by Arash Zaghi, explores the experiences of neurodivergent students pursuing advanced degrees in STEM. Arash is an associate professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering at the University of Connecticut, where...
Frist Center Director Keivan Stassun Appointed to National Science Board by President Biden
Jan. 28, 2023—The Frist Center is excited to announce that director Keivan Stassun has been appointed to the National Science Board. The National Science Board was created, along with the National Science Foundation (NSF) but the National Science Foundation Act of 1950. The National Science Board, along with the NSF director pursue the goals and function of the...
Applications Open for Python Bootcamp
Jan. 25, 2023—The Frist Center for Autism and Innovation is pleased to announce applications are open for the second year of our summer program Aspie Bootcamp: Python. Our free, virtual, summer coding camp. This online course was created by and for autistic and neurodivergent folks who want to learn the basics of coding in the programming language...
December Webinar is Available to Stream on YouTube
Jan. 16, 2023—Back in December, the Frist Center ran a webinar following the premiere of the film ‘In A Different Key.’ The full webinar is available to stream on YouTube at this link, or with the embedded video below. We would like to take a moment to thank our panelists, who had such an incredibly profound and...
Frist Center featured on NPR’s “This Is Nashville.”
Dec. 7, 2022—The Frist Center for Autism & Innovation is truly excited about the upcoming premiere of the documentary film, In a Different Key, airing nationally on PBS on Tuesday, December 13. We have several exciting events to promote this premiere coming up next week. On Monday, 12th December, This Is Nashville on NPR’s WPLN News station...
“In A Different Key” Premieres December 13th
Nov. 28, 2022—We at the Frist Center are excited to support the release of a new PBS documentary, “In A Different Key.” Throughout the rest of November and into December, we will post great content about this upcoming premiere, the documentary, and the story it tells. Follow us on Instagram at @fcai.vanderbilt and Facebook for some sneak...
Frist Center Driver Training Project receives CIVIC Grant from NSF
Oct. 26, 2022—On October 17, The Civic Innovation Challenge (CIVIC) — a partnership between the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) — announced 56 teams of civic and academic partners to be awarded Stage 1 Planning Grants of $50,000 to “support the strengthening of their partnerships and plans for ready-to-implement, research-based pilot...
NISE Fellow Hari Srinivasan Attends White House’s ADA Event
Oct. 7, 2022—Hari Srinivasan, Neurodiversity in Science and Engineering (NISE) Fellow, was invited to the White House on Wednesday, 28th September. The event celebrated the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which President Joe Biden co-sponsored as a bill in 1990. This Vanderbilt University neuroscience graduate student shook hands with the president twice and...
FCAI Associate Director Dave Caudel on Innovation Research Interchange Podcast
Sep. 19, 2022—Earlier this month, Frist Center Associate Director Dave Caudel was interviewed by the Innovation Research Interchange podcast, which aims to “cultivates resources for the innovation leaders”. Click here to listen!
Frist Center to Host 2022 Autism Summit – Register Today!
Aug. 27, 2022—The Frist Center for Autism and Innovation is pleased to announce that this year’s College Autism Summit will be hosted at Vanderbilt University from 12th – 14th October. The College Autism Summit is organized by the College Autism Network, a collection of researchers, colleges, self-advocates, and other stakeholders engaged in evidence-guided efforts to improve access,...