Current & Future Research
Empowering Neurodiverse Voices: Critical Participatory Action Research
2026 ~ Assessing the needs and equitable access of neurodivergent secondary students and their pathways through higher education. According to the US Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics at Institute of Education Sciences:
- Approximately 20-30% of students are identified as neurodivergent
- the six-year college graduation rate for students with these disabilities is only 49.5% compared to about 68% of non-disabled students.
- 15 to 43% of students identified as disabled do not receive accommodations from their educational institution.
- Only 12% of graduate students report as identified with one of these disabilities, which demonstrates a representation of less than half (24.8%) of the general population in the same category.
Our project plans to research a large sampling of secondary and university institutions in the USA, Canada, and the UK to perform comparative research on existing programs, their strengths and weaknesses, and their success rates both in aiding neurodivergent secondary students through the process of higher education entrance exams and applications, as well as supporting them at the university level to improve completion success rates.
In performing this study as critical participatory action research (CPAR) we aim to use both quantitative data from government and institutional resources, along with engaging identified neurodivergent students at many universities to participate in qualitative research to help better understand their pathway through higher education.
Project Budget: Estimated $165,000 - currently seeking grants
Past & On-Going Projects
Mentoring & Tutoring Secondary & Higher Education students with neurodiverse challenges
2023-Present ~ a specialized high-impact tutoring and mentoring program for neurodiverse teens and university students, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and mental health challenges. The program provides individualized academic support, career guidance, and long-term mentoring focused on executive functioning skills such as study strategies, test preparation, planning, and organization. Through a holistic approach, it aims to foster both academic achievement and personal growth. Quantitative data demonstrated measurable improvements in academic performance, while qualitative feedback from students and parents highlighted gains in self-esteem, personal organization, and confidence.
Project Budget: Approximately $50,000 per year / on-going funded by private tuition and donated hours of support
Enrichment Program ~ Online Art Therapy Classes for neurodiverse teens & adults
2022 ~ We managed the development and execution of a three-month online art therapy enrichment program tailored for neurodiverse teens and adults aged 16 to 45. The program combined art theory and hands-on practice across various mediums, including sketching, painting and sculpture, to encourage creativity and innovation. It was specifically designed to engage individuals who may be reluctant to leave their homes, offering a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment during the pandemic. Qualitative data was collected by participants prior to, during and after the program to assess the impact of the program on their emotional well-being. According to the results, through fostering both artistic expression and social interaction, the program supported participants in building connections and learning well-being techniques, in a comfortable virtual space.
Project Budget: $5,000 funded by the Nora Roberts Foundation
Virtual Social & Gaming Community for individuals with neuro-psychological disorders
2021 ~ Under Mind Span Wellness Communities, Inc. with the coordination of the Johns Hopkins International Arts & Mind Lab, we led the development of an online social and gaming community designed specifically for youths and young adults with autism and mental health challenges. The 9-month project focused on creating a private, safe, and supportive environment that fosters social interaction. We oversaw the implementation of robust safety protocols, including the deployment of trained live moderators, to ensure respectful and inclusive engagement. We ensured the platform addressed the unique needs of its users, promoting meaningful socialization and a sense of belonging.
Project Budget: $3,000 funded by private donations