Fostering Success and Inclusion: UofL’s Support for Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is the concept that people experience and engage with the world in a multitude of ways, emphasizing that there is no single "correct" approach to thinking, learning, or behaving. Rather than viewing differences as deficits, neurodiversity celebrates the variety of human experiences. While it is frequently discussed in relation to Autism-characterized by diverse communication styles, social interactions, learning processes, sensory perceptions and behaviors, neurodiversity also encompasses a range of other conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety disorders, learning disabilities, PTSD, speech disorders, TBI, etc. Each person’s experience is unique, highlighting the richness of human diversity. 

The Neurodivergence Specialist (NDS) aims to:

· Foster a strengths-based approach in collaboration with students, faculty, and staff at the University of Louisville.

· Honor the lived experiences of neurodiverse students.

· Leverage unique talents and skills of community members.

· Raise awareness of the valuable contributions of others,

· Enhance a sense of belonging and community.

Together we can empower neurodivergent students, ensuring they feel confident that they have the personal qualities and University resources necessary to learn, contribute, successfully graduate, and thrive beyond their time at the University of Louisville.

 In our pilot program, students eligible for direct support from the NDS will receive personalized, one-on-one assistance as well as access to workshops and activities focusing on self-advocacy, social interactions, stress management, executive functioning, career preparation and connecting with others. Faculty and staff can request individual consultations to explore tailored solutions, and customized workshops or training sessions can be provided for departments.

We are requesting your ideas and input for this newly formed position. Please take a few minutes to complete the Neurodivergence Needs Assessment.

Find upcoming social events and workshops on Engage.

Krista Schutz-Hampton (she/her) joined the University of Louisville’s Disability Resource Center as the Neurodivergence Specialist in September 2024.

A proud alumna, Krista holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UofL and earned a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Spalding University. With over ten years of experience in disability services, Krista previously served as the director of the Accessibility Resource Center at Bellarmine University and held various roles, including director, at Disability and Access at the University of Texas at Austin. Her background also includes over fifteen years in community mental health serving K-12 schools in JCPS and rural communities surrounding Louisville metro.

Outside of work, Krista loves traveling with her family- spouse, Jody, and children, Isabella and Griffin. She also enjoys spending time in and around water and playing Euchre. She’s so excited to join UofL’s Office of Institutional Equity team!