As part of Autism National Awareness Month, Berkeley Lab is hosting a panel on neurodiversity on Tuesday, April 23 from noon to 1 p.m. in the Building 50 Auditorium.
The panel will highlight the personal and professional experiences of Berkeley Lab colleagues with those on the autism spectrum, raise awareness on the definition of neurodiversity, and discuss how to support pathways and opportunities for neurodiverse individuals.
Lab Director Mike Witherell will be one of the panelists, sharing his thoughts from a parent’s perspective. “As a parent, I’m pleased to help us discuss neurodiversity at the Lab. I have learned that we have more neurodiverse people in our community than most people imagine. The different perspective they bring to solving problems is a valuable resource that we need to take advantage of.”
Other panel members include Emalynn Robinson, Senior Analytics Consultant in the HR Division, Martha Ortiz, Clerical Assistant in the Biosciences Area Office and an employee from Berkeley Lab’s Project Search neurodiversity program, and Stacy Curry, Senior Supervisor in the Engineering Division and a supervisor for Berkeley Lab’s Project Search neurodiversity program.
Neurodiversity is a concept where neurological differences are to be recognized and respected as any other human variation. Neurodiversity includes the autism spectrum, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. This event will primarily focus on the autism spectrum, the power of high-performing organizations to leverage the strengths and unique talents of neurodiverse individuals, and how the Lab is working to further the ability of people on the spectrum to find gainful and integrated employment.
The event will be livestreamed. Viewing rooms have been set up for employees at offsite locations. They include:
- Aspen Room, Building 971, Office of Chief Financial Officer
- Room 4132, Building 978, Emery Station East, JBEI
- Room B100-149A, Joint Genome Institute
The panel is sponsored by the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Office and the All Access Employee Resource Group (ERG).