WKU News

Western Kentucky University (WKU) TRIO Student Support Services, Disabilities (SSS-D), Student Accessibility Ambassadors (SAA), and the WKU Faculty/Staff Neurodiversity Alliance (F/S NDA) are proud to announce this year's Neurodiversity Awareness Fair. This event is dedicated to fostering awareness, education, and inclusion of neurodiverse individuals within the WKU campus and broader Bowling Green and Southcentral Kentucky communities. The fair will take place on April 15, 2025, from 10:45 AM to 12:45 PM in Centennial Mall on WKU’s main campus. 

Organized by WKU’s TRIO SSS-D program in collaboration with the SAA and F/S NDA, the event aims to shed light on the experiences of individuals with neurological differences, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder. Through interactive exhibits and informational booths, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of neurodiverse experiences and how to support inclusivity in academic, professional, and social settings. 

"The goal of this event is to create a more informed and inclusive campus culture where neurodivergent students feel understood, respected, and supported," said Jimmie Martin, Project Director of SSS-D and co-event organizer. "By engaging students, faculty, staff, and community members in hands-on activities and discussions, we hope to foster meaningful dialogue and awareness about neurodiversity."

What to Expect: 

• Educational Booths & Interactive Exhibits – Campus and community organizations will host tables with information and activities designed to simulate neurodivergent experiences. 
• Sensory Overload Challenge – Attendees can experience the impact of sensory processing differences through an engaging, hands-on activity. 
• Student & Faculty-Led Discussions – Conversations on how neurodiversity affects learning, career paths, and social interactions. 
• Campus and Community Resource Fair – A showcase of services and support systems available for neurodivergent individuals. 

The Neurodiversity Awareness Fair is open to all WKU students, faculty, staff, and community members. WKU encourages organizations, local businesses, and advocacy groups to participate by hosting a booth or volunteering at the event to distribute resources, snacks, prizes, scholarships, and free fidget devices.

Why Neurodiversity Awareness Matters 

Neurodivergent individuals bring unique perspectives and talents to learning environments, workplaces, and society overall. By raising awareness and fostering inclusive environments, WKU aims to empower neurodiverse students and create a more accessible campus and community for all. 

For more information about the Neurodiversity Awareness Fair or to sign up as a participant, please contact Jimmie Martin at sssd@wku.edu.

About WKU Student Support Services-Disabilities (SSS-D):

The SSS-D program at WKU is a federally funded TRIO program that provides academic, career, and personal support for college students with disabilities. Through mentoring, advocacy, and resources, SSS-D helps students overcome their barriers to success at WKU. 

About WKU Student Accessibility Ambassadors:

The Student Accessibility Ambassadors is a student-led organization that advocates for accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities for students with disabilities at WKU. Through events, outreach, and policy advocacy, the group strives to promote a culture of acceptance and support for all students. 

About WKU Faculty/Staff Neurodiversity Alliance (F/S NDA):

The WKU Faculty/Staff Neurodiversity Alliance (F/S NDA) is a coalition of neurodiverse faculty and staff, along with allies, committed to advancing awareness, inclusion, and advocacy for neurodivergent individuals in higher education. The alliance fosters a supportive campus environment through programming, mentorship, and policy initiatives designed to empower neurodivergent students, faculty, and staff. Through these efforts, the F/S NDA aims to create a more supportive and accommodating campus environment for all members of the WKU community.

For more information, please contact Jimmie Martin at sssd@wku.edu or call (270) 745-5175.