Vanderbilt University

This article is part of a series highlighting the work and people associated with the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation (FCAI) at Vanderbilt University. The Frist Center brings together engineers, business scholars, researchers, and self-advocates to develop solutions for maximizing neurodiverse talent. With its focus on technology and innovation,… Read More

We are excited to share a new resource developed with the support of Dr. Julie R. Posselt, one of our FCAI visiting faculty fellows. This new resource, entitled “Supporting Fair and Inclusive Graduate Programs: A Guide for Faculty and Institutions,” is a collaboration between the Council of… Read More

In a world where communication is at the forefront of connection, Dylan Makani is reimagining what accessibility looks like. As the co-founder of Ner Chat, Dylan is making incredible and transformative shifts in assistive technology. Drawing from his unique perspectives and background in neuroscience and investment banking,… Read More

We’re excited to share this amazing resource, created by high school student Ellie Rosenthal-Strisik, a passionate advocate, neurodivergent student, and friend of the College Autism Network and Frist Center for Autism and Innovation. Ellie created this resource for students like themselves–not for their parents,… Read More

Announcing the College Autism Network Summer Webinar Series exploring Autistic Students on Campus, co-sponsored by the College Autism Network and College Ready. This series of webinars will be hosted by Lee Burdette Williams, executive director of the College Autism Network, and Matt Gunter, Founder of College Ready and… Read More

NEXT is once again recruiting students to participate in their FREE co-mentorship program. In 2024, more than 60 universities partnered with NEXT, and they’ve made over 100 student-mentor matches! Participants are matched with established professionals trained in neuroinclusion, and meet virtually for 8 conversations between now and September. The… Read More

Complete a 30 minute to 1 hour survey about neurodivergence and health outcomes. Participants receive $30 in gift cards. eligibility Requirements 18-30 years old Living in the U.S. Identifies as neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, etc) Self diagnoses are welcome! Find out more Please review the attached flyer… Read More

Congratulations to the Microsoft team, which is celebrating 10 years of running the Microsoft Neurodiversity Program this Autism Awareness Month with a new guide. On April 15th, they launched their best practice guide, which “encapsulates a decade of insights from our program. These learnings have… Read More

We want to Congratulate two members of the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation family today, Dr. Tyler Derr and Hari Srinivasan. This week, Vanderbilt University acknowledged them with Impact Awards in the faculty and PhD student categories, respectively. Hari Srinivasan with his Impact Award. Dr. Tyler… Read More

Welcome to the first ever post of the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation (FCAI) blog! We are beyond excited to introduce you to this space which we hope will flourish into a hub of connection. Housed in the School of Engineering at Vanderbilt University, the Frist… Read More