CUNY Neurodiversity Conference Highlights Student Voice and Inclusive Excellence

The 2026 Eighth Annual CUNY Neurodiversity Conference on Friday (March 27) brought together students, faculty, and staff at the Graduate Center in Manhattan for a day of learning, dialogue, and community. The event highlighted CUNY’s ongoing commitment to access, equity, and inclusive excellence for students with disabilities.

The program opened with Raymond Perez, University Director of Disability Programs, who introduced Charmaine Townsell, York College Senior Director of Student Wellness and Resources, as emcee. Representing York College in its signature red and black, proudly wearing a red York College cardigan, Townsell set the tone with an engaging presence that energized the room and fostered connection.

Dr. Denise B. Maybank, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, emphasized the role of leadership in advancing inclusive practices and ensuring students feel seen, valued, and supported. Often described by students as our “Fearless Leader in Heels,” she reinforced CUNY’s responsibility to support student success.

As the keynote speaker, Dr. Juliette Gudnechi, CEO and Founder of the Autism and Neurodivergency Advocacy Association, encouraged participants to reimagine learning environments that reflect the full range of student experiences.

A highlight of the conference was the student panel led by York College student leader Luis “Junior” Alvarez, Chairperson of the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities. Introduced by Townsell, Co-Advisor to the Coalition alongside Perez, the panel elevated student perspectives on resilience, leadership, and self-advocacy.

Framing the discussion, Townsell noted that this work continues in partnership with CUNY leadership, President Claudia V. Schrader and Vice President Karen Williams, and colleagues in Student Affairs who advance this work every day. She added, “When we center student voice, we create spaces where students with disabilities feel they belong, experience joy in learning, and thrive across CUNY.”

Students shared candid reflections on their academic journeys, underscoring the importance of lived experience in shaping more inclusive and responsive institutions. Echoing this, Perez noted that “as a University, our role is to ensure students with disabilities feel supported, heard, and empowered to succeed.”

Sessions throughout the day explored advocacy, accessibility, and identity, creating space for reflection and continued growth in supporting neurodiverse learners.

Townsell closed the conference by thanking participants and reminding attendees that April is CUNY Disability Awareness Month. She encouraged the community to register for the virtual conference on Friday, April 17, 2026, continuing the shared commitment to access and student success.

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