The Learning Support Center at Kalamazoo College has a week of events scheduled that will challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences between people on campus and beyond.

Neurodiversity Week, starting Monday, will provide the K community a chance to recognize the skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual. Events will include:

• Snacks and games in the Learning Support Room daily.
• Panel pop-ups from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Monday–Wednesday at Hicks Student Center. Students and staff will answer questions and engage students in conversations about neurodiversity across campus. There will also be giveaways, raffles and a vote for what fidget toy the Learning Support Center will 3D print next.
• A sharing of Senior Integrated Projects from 7–9 p.m. Wednesday in the Learning Support Center at the library. Seniors will talk about their SIP processes and experiences as neurodiverse students.
• A neurodiversity mixer from 3–5 p.m. Thursday in the Learning Commons. The event will serve as a crafting party with make-your-own brain collages, snacks and games. Students can also meet the Learning Support Center mascots: axolotls of all kinds because you need to “axolotl” questions to succeed. A grand prize raffle winner will receive a large stuffed axolotl.
• A fidget-toy petting zoo from 4–5 p.m. Friday in the Learning Commons. Enjoy cake and try a variety of fidget toys.
• A study group for everyone from 2–4 p.m. Sunday in the Learning Support Room.

The Learning Support Center empowers students to develop study skills, notetaking methods and time-management strategies through a variety of methods that help students engage in deeper learning.

“We are excited to share our love of brains of all kinds,” Learning Support Specialist Candace Combs said. “We encourage everyone to learn more about neurodiversity throughout the week.”