Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity
Welcome to the Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University: You Belong Here
The Center for Neurodiversity is dedicated to advancing the academic, social, and professional success of neurodivergent students. Building upon nearly two decades of pioneering experience, we offer a comprehensive suite of programs that empower students to transition into college successfully, excel in their studies and college life, and launch meaningful careers post-graduation.
Our center continues to grow and expand to meet the needs of our community, and we welcome a broader range of neurodivergent learners through innovative programming and community partnerships.
The center features several elements, all of which seek to help neurodivergent students transition into college, succeed on campus, and find success post-college. Admission to all programs require an application, but they do not require a prerequisite–students can enter at any point.
- IGNITE is a one-week program for rising high school sophomores and juniors.
- CREATE is a three-week program for rising seniors or graduating students.
The Center for Neurodiversity offers a pair of summer programs, responding to growing interest from families to start preparing for college early in high school years. Â
As dual enrollment (taking college courses while enrolled in high school) has grown nationally, there are very few programs that support neurodivergent learners. The Center for Neurodiversity offers one to two courses per semester that are remote, asynchronous, and include a weekly support meeting with center staff.
Contact us at neurodiversity@mercyhurst.edu to learn more about upcoming dual enrollment opportunities.
The signature program was founded in 2008, making it one of the oldest and largest programs of its kind in the world. This comprehensive support program includes weekly one-on-one and Career Path meetings, various social activities, vocational and experiential trips, and much more.
Neuroinclusive Workplace Solutions: Partnering for Talent
The Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity is committed to not only developing exceptional neurodivergent talent but also to connecting them with inclusive employers.
We partner with corporations, non-profits, and organizations to offer:
- ±·±ð³Ü°ù´Ç¾±²Ô³¦±ô³Ü²õ¾±´Ç²ÔÌý°Õ°ù²¹¾±²Ô¾±²Ô²µ: Customized training for management and human resources to understand the benefits that neurodivergent employees bring, including skills like attention to detail, deep focus, and innovative problem-solving.
- °ä´Ç²Ô²õ³Ü±ô³Ù¾±²Ô²µÌý³§±ð°ù±¹¾±³¦±ð²õ: Expert guidance to help your organization be more neuroinclusive in your recruitment, hiring, and retention practices.
- Talent Pipeline:Â Opportunities to connect directly with motivated students and alumni, who are prepared for the demands of the modern workplace.
With approximately 20 percent of the U.S. population identifying as neurodivergent, most workplaces have more neurodivergent employees than they realize. We can help you effectively support, retain, and leverage this valuable, innovative talent pool.
In October 2025, the Center for Neurodiversity launched the Neurodiversity and Higher Education podcast. The show seeks to be a resource for students and families who are navigating the transition into higher education through the journey from higher education into the workforce. We will welcome industry leaders, employers, admissions personnel, students, families, and more as guests to our show, hosted by Ryan Palm, executive director of the Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity.
Honoring Our Past, Building for the Future
The center is proudly named in memory of Brad McGarry, a true pioneer in college support programs for neurodivergent students. Brad served as the passionate director of the Autism Initiative at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ (AIM) from 2014 until 2021. His dedication and vision laid the groundwork for the robust center we are today. He passed away in December 2023 after a two-year battle with ALS.
Autism Initiative at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ
