In celebration of Autism Awareness Month in the United States, Owens Community College is hosting a series of events designed to promote understanding, inclusion, and support for neurodivergent individuals. The initiative is a collaborative effort among the Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, Counseling Services, the Disability Resource Center, and Admissions, all working together to raise awareness and provide meaningful educational opportunities for the campus community.
The month’s events begin with a Neurodivergent-Friendly Networking Expo on March 31 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in VE 201. This event is designed to create a welcoming space for neurodivergent individuals to connect with transfer institutions and employer partners. Participating organizations include Bowling Green State University, Defiance College, Heidelberg University, Ohio Northern University, Owens Community College, the Ability Center, Capabilities, the City of Toledo, MonARK, New Story Schools, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), ProMedica, Sunshine Communities, and the Zepf Center.
On April 1 at 11 a.m., the college will host an Autism Awareness Week film showing in CH 100, which will also be livestreamed for broader access. The following day, April 2, a more in-depth Autism Awareness Workshop will take place from 2 to 4 p.m., also in CH 100 and available via livestream. The workshop will feature four breakout sessions led by experts across disciplines, each offering practical strategies and insights.
Dr. Clarissa Barnes, Associate Professor of Special Education and Director of the Hench Autism Studies Program at Defiance College, will lead a session focused on universal design. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience, she will work directly with participants to modify assignments in real time, demonstrating how inclusive practices can be implemented in the classroom.
Vickie Heck, a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 20 years of experience, will guide participants through demonstrations in the College Hall sensory room and counseling spaces, focusing on understanding autism in adults.
Chris Hendricks, Director of the Disability Resource Center at Owens Community College, will facilitate a hands-on sensory demonstration. Participants will engage with visual, auditory, and olfactory elements to better understand sensory overload, along with exploring tools such as visual supports, earphones, and fidget devices that can support students experiencing overstimulation.
Dr. Kristin Price, Professor of Psychology, will lead a session on language and autism, helping participants examine classroom materials such as syllabi and assignments to identify inclusive language practices and areas for improvement.
The week continues with the opening of the BIG Read “Faces Of” Art Exhibit, which celebrates neurodiversity through student work. The exhibit reception will take place on April 3 from 12 to 1 p.m. in the first-floor lounge of Heritage Hall, where attendees are invited to engage with the stories and experiences of neurodivergent individuals. The exhibit will remain on display from April 3 through May 3.
