Who We Are

The UNT Neurodiversity Initiative provides access to and information about a variety of groups, training opportunities, and research efforts that are designed to promote awareness, understanding, and acceptance of neurodivergent students, faculty, and staff in our university community.

"Neurodiversity is the diversity of human brains and minds - the infinite variation in neurocognitive functioning within our species.” (Nick Walker)

Neurodiversity is a term that refers to a natural variation in the "wiring" of the human brain.  The Meriam-Webster Dictionary (2025) defines neurodiverstiy as  "the individual differences in brain functioning regarded as normal variations within the human population." Neurodiversity ranges from being a single variation in thinking or doing to more involved neurological diversity.

Even though a person can self-identify as neurodivergent, several formal diagnoses that are considered neurodivergent include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Tourette Syndrome
• Learning differences such as dyslexia and dyscalculia
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Vision and Mission

Mission Statement: UNT will foster an inclusive campus for all through understanding and support of neurodiversity.

Vision Statement: UNT will support students' academic, social, and mental well-being through collaborative and individualized services. UNT faculty and staff members will be educated on neurodiversity to foster acceptance, understanding, and inclusion.