Gillen Brewer Hosts First Webinar in New Series on College Programs for Neurodiverse Students

Two weeks ago, the Gillen Brewer community came together for an illuminating and encouraging webinar, which was open to the public, focused on college programs designed to support students with autism. Moderated by Gillen Brewer’s Director of Middle School & Enrollment, Amy Salomon, the panel featured three professionals from college-based autism support programs: Adelphi’s Bridges Program, Rutger’s College Support Program, and Drexel’s Center for Autism and Neurodiversity.

The conversation included insights into how each institution structures academic coaching, social skills development, executive functioning support, and residential life guidance to help autistic students thrive. Families heard firsthand how colleges are working intentionally and thoughtfully to ensure that neurodiverse students not only access higher education but also feel a genuine sense of belonging once they arrive on campus.

In addition to describing their programs, the panelists offered concrete advice for parents and caregivers of high school students. A central message was the importance of strengthening independent living skills long before graduation. Panelists emphasized that daily routines like managing personal care, organizing schoolwork, navigating transportation, practicing self-advocacy, and gradually increasing responsibility at home help build the confidence and competence students will need when they step onto a college campus.

Gillen Brewer will continue this series with a webinar in February on College Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities and then, in May, College Programs for Students with Learning Disabilities.