Staff

Due to funding cuts to the National Science Foundation made after the executive orders in the last several weeks, FCAI has lost $7 million in expected federal grant funding, and along with it some of our cornerstone programs for national impact. The $7 million in funding had been rigorously reviewed… Read More

We are thrilled to announce that our director, Dr. Keivan Stassun, has been awarded the prestigious National Medal of Science, recognizing his groundbreaking contributions to astronomy and diversity, equity, and inclusion. This honor not only highlights Dr. Stassun’s individual achievements but also shines a spotlight on the vital… Read More

Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, Dr. Keivan G. Stassun, a professor at Vanderbilt University, recently appeared on an episode of the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Discovery Files podcast. In this episode, Dr. Stassun discusses his groundbreaking work in astronomy, efforts to enhance diversity in STEM fields, and… Read More

In an episode of Autism Weekly that dropped in September, our Associate Director Dave Caudel was interviewed about transforming workplaces for neurodivergent individuals. Autism Weekly is a podcast that discusses Autism news, current events, and inclusion. Each week, host Jeffrey Skibitsky welcomes a guest to the program… Read More

We are thrilled to share that our Program and Communications manager, Jessica Schonhut-Stasik, launched her non-profit, The Neuroverse Initiative (TNI), last week. This unique initiative operates at the intersection of space science and neurodiversity, with a mission to support neurodivergent space scientists in training, research, and advocacy. Read More

We are thrilled to announce that our Director, Keivan G. Stassun, has been awarded the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship, also known as the “Genius Grant.” This incredible honor has been awarded to Director Stassun for his work “expanding opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and careers for… Read More

On May 10-11th, 2024, we are thrilled to announce that FCAI Program and Communications Manager Jessica Schonhut-Stasik will deliver multiple talks at the free, virtual SciAccess conference. Jessica, along with an array of incredible speakers at the intersection of disability and STEM, will provide three unique talks outlined below. Read More

The Frist Center for Autism and Innovation is proud to partner with Jobs for Humanity. This organization supports inclusive hiring practices for individuals from underrepresented groups, including those on the autism spectrum.  Jobs for Humanity has recently unveiled an inspiring impact report showcasing their remarkable achievements… Read More

Last week, FCAI Associate Director Dave Caudel spoke for a Disability @ Work session hosted by the UNC Charlotte Career Center. Caudel discussed the strengths and challenges of neurodiversity, and these undeserved and underutilized members of our society. You can view the video below or on YouTube … Read More

Our director, Keivan Stassun, was interviewed for the latest Special Needs Voices Podcast episode. You can listen by searching on the Spotify app or at the following link: https://open.spotify.com/show/6hmcBoR4vMaqFq4Kefpz6D In this episode, Keivan “will be speaking about topics such as his childhood and how it affected his career… Read More