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Emory Autism Celebration Month to highlight autistic voices, talents and community
Media Contact
Jennifer Johnson McEwen
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Emory University will host the university’s 6th annual Autism Celebration Month this April, a series of events recognizing and celebrating autistic and neurodivergent students, researchers and community members. Led by the Emory Autism Center  and a neurodiverse planning committee of students, staff and faculty, the 2026 celebration is themed “Persistence and Pride” and will feature both in-person and virtual events throughout the month.

“Autism Celebration Month is an opportunity to honor the perspectives, talents and contributions of autistic students and community members, while also creating space for connection, visibility and belonging,” says Matt Segall, PhD, assistant professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and chair of Emory’s Autism Celebration Month planning committee. “This year’s theme, ‘Persistence and Pride,’ reflects both the strength of our community and the perseverance often required for achievement and advocacy.”

Autism Celebration Month is designed to highlight the talents, perspectives and achievements of autistic individuals while fostering inclusion, connection and community across Emory and beyond.

Events scheduled for April include:

  • Thursday, April 2, 3-5 p.m.Atlanta Campus Special Interest Showcase
    Held at the Cannon Chapel underpass, this in-person event will invite attendees to meet autistic students and community members and learn about their unique interests, gifts and talents through table-based presentations and conversations.
  • Thursday, April 2, 5 p.m. — Oxford Campus PowerPoint Night
    Hosted in person at Phi Gamma Hall, this event will feature students from Emory’s Oxford campus sharing brief presentations on their interests and areas of expertise. Attendees will have opportunities to learn, ask questions and enjoy light snacks and beverages.
  • Tuesday, April 7, 6 p.m. — Autistic Student Panel
    This virtual event will bring together three college students to discuss the autistic experience, celebrate successes and share perspectives on how communities can become more inclusive, supportive and accessible.
  • Thursday, April 16, 6 p.m. — Virtual Research Symposium
    This online symposium will feature a panel of neurodivergent and autistic researchers from around the country.
  • Monday, April 20 — Autistic Student Graduation Celebration
    Emory will host its 3rd annual graduation celebration, an invitation-only gathering honoring autistic students graduating in fall 2025 and spring 2026. The event will be held at the Carlos Museum and is expected to recognize approximately 15 students.

Sponsors for Emory University’s 2026 Autism Celebration Month include the Emory University Office of the Provost, Emory Autism Center, Emory Autism Advocacy Organization, Emory University School of Medicine and the Atlanta Autism Consortium.

More information about the month’s events is available on the Autism Celebration Month events page, which will be updated throughout the month. Those interested in supporting the effort can also contribute through Emory’s 2026 Autism Celebration Month Momentum campaign.


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