The Conclusion of the "Transforming Perspectives: Embracing Neurodiversity" Series

Neurodiverse Employee Resource Group

On April 29, the campus community gathered for a thoughtful and engaging “Lunch and Reflect” session in support of the ongoing series, Transforming Perspectives: Embracing Neurodiversity. The event, presented by Sara Sanders Gardner of Autistic at Work, LLC, was hosted in the Peter, Wright, and McKenna rooms of the Cohon University Center and welcomed 40 faculty and staff from across the University.

Designed to foster community, understanding, and dialogue, each table was provided with a dual-purpose sheet—featuring light-hearted “Would You Rather” prompts on one side to break the ice, and reflection questions based on the webinar on the other. 

Attendees began the session with lively conversations over empanadas from The Colombian Spot in Oakland, discussing fun prompts like, “Would you rather have the ability to talk to animals or speak every language fluently?”

Once conversations were underway, participants turned their attention to three reflective questions designed to deepen their engagement with the webinar:

1. How can we support and celebrate neurodivergent experiences?
2. What roles do culture and community play in shaping the way neurodivergence is experienced and responded to?
3. How did Transforming Perspectives: Embracing Neurodiversity impact your perspective on neurodivergence?

Table discussions were reported to be insightful and thought-provoking, with attendees sharing personal experiences and thoughtful commentary. Each group selected a notetaker to summarize key points from the discussion, which were later displayed on a sign hanger for all attendees to read and reflect on.

The event was warmly received, offering a meaningful space for connection and growth. Organized by the Neurodiverse Employee Resource Group in partnership with the Olitsky Family Foundation Career Readiness Program, the session exemplified the power of dialogue in shifting perspectives and fostering inclusivity.

Reconnect with CMU=You: Your One-Stop Hub for Employee Engagement

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Explore workshops and nomination-based programs like Administrative Professionals, Lean Six Sigma and CMULead. You can also stay in the loop on seasonal recognition opportunities such as the ANDY Awards and college/division-specific award programs.

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In April, Mary Ganska and Ryan Freytag had the opportunity to visit CMU Qatar to meet with fellow leaders and colleagues at their campus in Doha. On Sunday, we kicked off the day by joining CMU Qatar colleagues for a welcoming breakfast that brought together staff from both campuses in a spirit of camaraderie and shared purpose. We enjoyed sharing karak and mingling with everyone!

Later that day, we were honored to meet with the CMU Qatar Staff Council Executive Board over lunch, where we exchanged ideas, experiences, and perspectives on staff engagement and collaboration across the CMU community. We shared challenges we face at each campus and talked over ideas to engage with fellow staff meaningfully.

A highlight of the trip was attending the 2025 Thorpe Awards—CMU Qatar’s signature staff recognition event. It was a wonderful celebration of the outstanding contributions and teamwork demonstrated by our colleagues in Doha. The event served as a powerful reminder of the excellence, dedication, and community spirit that define CMU staff around the world.

We’re grateful to CMU Qatar for generously hosting us and covering the cost of the trip, which allowed for a valuable exchange of ideas and strengthened connections between our campuses!

This year's Staff Council's Take Our Children To Work Day (TOCTWD) was a huge success! The event would not have been possible without the incredible support of the dedicated volunteers, engaging presenters, and the enthusiastic families who participated.

It was inspiring to see children and their caregivers connect with the diverse and vital work we do here at Carnegie Mellon, demonstrating how our "heart is in the work". The behind-the-scenes tour of the Chosky Theater provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of theater, while the Formula SAE racecar shop ignited excitement for engineering and innovation. Even the exploration of chemistry in our kitchens offered a tangible and fun understanding of scientific principles. The TOCTWD Committee hopes the children went home with a broader appreciation for the many opportunities that surround us.

For those staff members who are interested in contributing to the magic of this day, please consider getting involved as a volunteer for next year's event.

Email TOCTWD@andrew.cmu.edu and be sure to save the date for next year's Take Our Children To Work Day, slated for April 23, 2026!

Want to Use Your Voice?

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Connecting with Staff Council

Have an idea or concern? Please don't hesitate to reach out to your Staff Council Divisional Representative or an At-Large Representative. You can also send an email to staff-council@andrew.cmu.edu.