Neurodiversity Impact Team
Discrimination throughout history has leaned heavily on weaponizing normal and natural states of being against women. Stigmas associated with diverse neurological and emotional presentations create barriers for all women. It is critical that we empower educators, employers, and all Utahns to understand and promote universally designed environments. As part of "identity" on the Rim of the BWF Wheel of Change, this Impact Team is tasked with working with the leaders or a representative of each spoke to ensure that neurodiversity is considered in all aspects of A Bolder Way Forward. By fostering understanding and acceptance of diverse neurological presentations, we can design inclusive systems and environments that accommodate participation and success for all.
Leaders
Marianna Henry
ADHD Coach & Educator
LinkedIn Profile
Marianna is an ICF Associate Certified Coach committed to helping students and clients find strengths-based success on their ADHD, academic, career, and leadership journeys. She enjoys researching, educating, and training around neurodiversity and neuroequality.
Christina Guevara
Educational Specialist
LinkedIn Profile
Christina has a background in psychology from UCLA and a Master's in Education/Special Education from the University of Phoenix. As the Apprenticeship Educational Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, she is developing a new licensing pathway for licensing to increase recruitment and retention for Utah teachers.
Bold Vision & Goals
We, the Neurodiversity Impact Team, are dedicated to advancing neurological equality for those who identify as women through a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement, comprehensive resources, and unwavering advocacy. We hope individuals with all neurological presentations have equal access to prosperity across all aspects of life.
Our core values guide our actions:
- Empowerment: We empower women to embrace neurodivergence through self-awareness, engaging with resources, self-advocacy, and self-acceptance.
- Advocacy: We advocate for institutional reforms that promote neurodiversity, universal design, and access to resources within systems and structures.
- Education: We strive to educate the public about the importance of neurological equity, dismantling stereotypes and biases that hinder progress.
- Collaboration: We foster collaboration among organizations, educators, resource providers, and women to create a more inclusive and diverse community.
Together, we work tirelessly to break down barriers, challenge systemic biases, and create a future where women are equally represented and valued.
Thriving Statement: Neurodivergent women and girls thrive when societal attitudes shift to recognize and celebrate neurodiversity as a natural variation of the human experience.