Overview
Mizzou has formed a Taskforce on Neurodiversity in Learning and Work Environments to strengthen support for neurodiverse students, faculty, and staff. This focused initiative will align with our priorities for student success, workforce readiness, and inclusive excellence.
Leadership
Marisa Chrysochoou, Dean of Engineering
Connie Brooks, Executive Director, Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment
Membership
- Ashley Brickley, Director, Disability Center
- Chuck Burgess, Assistant Director of Outreach, MU Counseling Center
- Shawn Christ, Professor, Department of Psychological Sciences
- Rabia Faizan, Assistant Professor, Department of Architectural Studies
- Cortney Fish, Director, Training Division, Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment
- Annette Kendall, Associate Teaching Professor, Division of Applied Social Sciences
- Michael Krauch, Regional Director (Northwest), MU Extension
- Erica Lembke, Curators’ Distinguished Professor of Special Education, Associate Dean of Research, College of Education and Human Development
- Lea Ann Lowery, Clinical Professor; Faculty Fellow for Interprofessional Education, Health System, Occupational Therapy
- Bentley Lyda, Associate Director, Center for Teaching and Learning
- Tori Mondelli, Center for Teaching and Learning
- Anand Prahlad, Curators’ Distinguished Professor Emeritus, English, Self-Advocate
- Jackson Wiley, Student, Self-Advocate
- Laine Young-Walker, Chair, Columbia School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
- Duhita Zambre, Senior Program Manager, Undergraduate Admissions
Deliverables
Initial report to the Provost: May 2026
Expected Impact
- Position Mizzou as a leader in neurodiversity in the Midwest.
- Enhance recruitment and success of neurodiverse students.
- Improve workplace satisfaction and retention of faculty and staff.
- Strengthen competitiveness for external funding and partnerships.
- Advance Mizzou’s land-grant mission of access and opportunity.