Our society has a narrow definition of success, rewarding speed over depth and conformity over originality. But innovation comes from people who invent new ways of navigating through the world—a skill at which folks with disabilities and neurodiversity excel.
The second annual Neurodiversity & Disability Week, hosted by the University of Utah’s Center for Disability & Access (CDA), is Feb. 17-20. This year’s theme, “The Power of My Perspective,” is not about overcoming what makes you different—it’s celebrating what becomes possible when “different” is allowed to fully participate.
“Universities often support one learning style for processing and communicating. Students who have a different learning style often spend their energy responding to the different style instead of engaging in their classroom, office or in relationships. It can be quite exhausting,” said Shalyse McKnight, manager of neurodiversity services at the CDA. “The Center for Disability & Access offers accommodations to remove barriers and provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding and knowledge.”
The week will kick off with a keynote from Adam Janisieski-Chacon, Certified Deaf Interpreter, who will share his perspective as a Deaf person and how he navigates his role as a student, mentor, colleague and instructor of American Sign Language. Then, come to the sensory fair and discover tools and techniques for self-regulating in an overwhelming environment—and craft with new friends. Learn from students who use accommodations to maximize their journey at the U. Finally, the week rounds out with an informational session about resources and strategies for supporting neurodiverse students in the classroom, and a treasure hunt (registration information below).
There’s something for all members of campus—students, staff and faculty alike. Join us to hear from your peers and learn about the myriad services the CDA can provide.
2026 Neurodiversity & Disability Week events
Tuesday, Feb. 17
Opening keynote address: Adam Janisieski-Chacon (virtual) | Zoom
- 12-1 p.m.
- Everyone is welcome—students, staff and faculty
Adam Janisieski-Chacon, Certified Deaf Interpreter at the U, will share his perspective as a Deaf person and how he navigates his role as a student, mentor, colleague and instructor of American Sign Language.
Wednesday, Feb. 18
Sensory Fair activities
- Wellness Hub | Student Services Building, Room 350
- Drop in from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Everyone is welcome—students, staff and faculty
- Raffle entry to students who attend. Enter to win a Brick, noise-cancelling headphones or Loop Quiet.
- Explore items used for sensory regulation. Learn about what this means and the tools that can be used.
- Mindfulness Center | Student Services Center, Room 344
- 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: Grounding techniques
- 12-1 p.m.: Guided meditation
- Social activities | Student Services Building, Room 380
- 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: Visit with facility dogs Volley and Homer
- 12-2 p.m.: Craft and Connect
Thursday, Feb. 19
Student voices panel | Zoom
- 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
- Everyone is welcome—students, staff and faculty
Join us for a virtual panel event where students share their experiences, challenges and triumphs at the U. Gain insight into their journeys, hear their stories and learn how we can all foster a more accessible campus.
Student social with dessert bar | Student Services Building, Room 350
- Open to students: Those who attend can enter the raffle.
- 1-2 p.m.: Trivia game
- 2-3 p.m.: Mingle and craft
Friday, Feb. 20
Supporting neurodiverse students | Register here.
Hosted by the Center for Teaching Excellence.
- 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
- Open to faculty, instructors, graduate students and post-docs.
Currently, 4% of University of Utah students self-identify as neurodivergent. However, research shows that only one-third of students with a qualifying disability inform their college. As a result, the number of students who need accommodations may be up to three times higher than what we typically recognize—often invisible in our classrooms. In this workshop, we will explore teaching strategies that support neurodivergent students’ academic success, social-emotional development and sense of community in the classroom. We will also share faculty resources available for effectively supporting neurodiverse learners.
Student Treasure Hunt | Register on Campus Connect.
- 2-4:30 p.m.
- Open to students
- Small prizes for winners.
Visit the Center for Disability & Access to learn about the CDA’s services, including how to register for accommodations, new sensory spaces and peer-to-peer mentorship.
