Name
Building Inclusion: Rethinking our Physical Spaces
Time
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM (EDT)
Description

Physical spaces play a vital yet often overlooked role in fostering belonging, safety, and success in higher education. This session centers neurodivergent perspectives to explore how existing campus spaces can move beyond basic accessibility toward intentional, joy-centered inclusion. Grounded in lived experience, student feedback, cultural awareness, and neurodiversity-affirming design, it examines how environments can create barriers or build connection. Participants will consider the impact of sensory input on daily engagement, as well as how communication, marketing, safety, and maintenance decisions shape who feels welcome. The session highlights a spectrum of accessibility, from low-cost improvements to fully developed sensory-friendly spaces.