Neurodiverse Faculty and Staff Alliance
Events and Membership
To become a member of the Neurodiverse Faculty and Staff Alliance, please submit a membership form so you can be informed of upcoming meetings and events. There is no cost associated with membership and no time commitments. Members can attend as many meetings and events as they would like. Individual membership in ERGs is strictly voluntary and open to all individuals who are interested in promoting diversity, equity and inclusiveness. Refer to the ERG benefits and guidelines for more information.
Resources
- CMU's Digital Accessibility Office
- Welcoming Neurodiversity Presentation, hosted by the Neurodiverse Employee Resource Group and Evolve Coaching (passcode: M0=2F46s)
- Neurodiversity Network
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network
- Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- Job Accommodation Network
- ADDitude
- Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative
What Is Neurodiversity?
“Neurodiversity” is a word used to explain the unique ways people's brains work. While everyone's brain develops similarly, no two brains function just alike. Being neurodivergent means having a brain that works differently from the average or “neurotypical” person.
Mission Statement
CMU’s Neurodiverse ERG exists to provide intentional space for cognitively diverse employees, as well as allies, in search of resources, community and support across all Carnegie Mellon University campuses. We work to improve awareness of the diverse experiences of the human mind and to promote the showcasing of perspectives that focus on inclusive collaboration through workshops, discussion groups and social events.
Leadership
Cait Batchelor, Co-Lead
Cait Batchelor has been with CMU as an administrative assistant for the Financial and Business Services team within the Software Engineering Institute since 2016. By leveraging their degree in inclusive education, and their own experiences with ADHD, Cait advocates for neurodivergent people during the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating the transition to remote work environments. In 2022, Cait was awarded the SEI’s AJ Award in Living Our Shared Values for their work founding a Neurodiversity group within SEI. As CMU navigates its post COVID-19 future, Cait continues to advocate for neurodivergent individuals to ensure they are able to continuously maximize the contributions they bring to CMU every day.
Rachel Burress, Member Liaison
Rachel Burress joined CMU as an administrative assistant with Cyber Security and Privacy Lab. She is thrilled to be serving as the Neurodivergent member liaison. Rachel believes in creating a space where people can feel welcome, connected and supported.
Co-leads Cait Batchelor and Caedyn Busche pose with the Neurodiverse ERG banner during Spring Carnival.
The Neurodiverse Faculty and Staff Alliance joined CMU's employee resource groups to host a table during Spring Carnival.
On April 6, 2023, the Neurodiverse Faculty and Staff alliance hosted a CMU employee panel on myths and misconceptions about living as a neurodivergent person.