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Center for Embodied Equity and Neurodiversity

About Us

Our Mission:

To explore and address the intersections of trauma and neurodiversity.

We recognize that trauma can profoundly alter brain function and nervous system responses, sometimes presenting as conditions that resemble learning disabilities. While the neurodiversity movement often focuses on accommodations for disabilities, we emphasize the necessity of understanding and addressing trauma and adverse experiences as fundamental to truly supporting individuals.

Our work aims to balance strategies that accommodate neurodiversity with a deep awareness of how trauma impacts learning and development. We do not assume that all individuals who have experienced trauma will have learning disabilities or that all learning disabilities stem from trauma. Instead, we strive to integrate these perspectives to better support the holistic well-being and educational success of individuals.

Our vision

Our vision is a world where educational spaces celebrate and support the full spectrum of human diversity. We envision a future where every individual, regardless of neurodiversity, race, gender, or socioeconomic status, experiences belonging, achieves their fullest potential, and contributes meaningfully to their communities. Through our work, we aim to transform educational paradigms and inspire systemic change that leads to equitable outcomes for all learners.

Who We Serve

Few education and child-serving professionals understand how marginalization affects the learner’s nervous system and how it impedes their lifelong learning capabilities. By equipping educators with this science behind neurodiversity and marginalization, we can empower them to create truly inclusive educational environments where every student can flourish.

Classroom Teachers

  • General Education PK – 12 Teachers
  • Special Education PK – 12 Teachers
  • Special Education Aides
  • College Professors
  • Vocational Instructors

Community Educators

  • Tutors
  • Coaches
  • YMCA Staff
  • Summer Camp Staff
  • Arts and Enrichment Educators
  • Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts Leaders
  • City Parks and Rec Staff
  • Community Volunteers

Caregivers

  • Group Home Staff
  • Foster Parents
  • Before and After School Care Staff
  • Daycare Staff
  • 1:1 Personal Aides

Therapeutic Support Providers

  • Therapists
  • Regional Center Staff
  • Social Workers
  • Case Workers
  • Juvenile Detention Staff
  • Campus Safety Officers
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Leadership Team

Executive Director

Dr. Niki Elliott

Associate Director

Dr. Sylvia Mac

Program Manager

Lauren Fittante

Affiliated Faculty

Dr. Cheryl Getz

Affiliated Research Faculty

Dr. Hugo Garcia

Graduate Assistant

Lailah Harris

Graduate Assistant

Coco Richard

Contact us

Learn more about our programs, resources, and partnership opportunities.