Wayne State University Presentation - Humanity in Everyone We Serve

Insights from Dr. Adam Hazlett's Presentation at Wayne State University

In July 2024, Doc delivered a powerful presentation at Wayne State University, focusing on neuro-inclusion and micro-accommodations—small, cost-effective adjustments that improve job conditions for autistic people. Doc's discussion centered on the idea that inclusivity must prioritize the human experience, making neurodivergent individuals feel seen, understood and supported.

As society continues to grapple with stress on both financial and emotional fronts, Doc emphasized the urgent need for inclusion, framing micro-accommodations as a simple and affordable solution to making workplaces accessible for everyone.

The Main Message: Focusing on the Human Experience

When asked about the primary takeaway from his presentation, Doc stressed the importance of seeing beyond neurodivergent individuals' challenges to focus on their humanity. He urged the audience to prioritize neuro-inclusion, a practice that benefits not just autistic individuals but everyone facing exclusion in today's increasingly complex world.

"The main point I intended was that the audience focus on the human side of those they serve," he said. He provided benchmarks for best practices at CommuniCare, highlighting how neuro-inclusion can be normalized and implemented in everyday settings.

Why Micro-accommodations Matter More Than Ever

These small, often overlooked changes help neurodivergent individuals feel more comfortable and included in environments designed for neurotypical people. Actions like reducing background noise, offering alternative communication methods, or allowing individuals to step away from overstimulating situations can be incredibly impactful.

"Micro-accommodations are inexpensive ways to help everyone in situations of exclusion," he said. In today's world, stressed both financially and emotionally, he argued that the future must become inclusive, or it doesn't exist at all. This inclusivity starts with recognizing the power of micro-accommodations and creating spaces that cater to the diverse needs of all individuals, neurodivergent or not.

Audience Response and Resonance

According to Dr. Hazlett, the audience at Wayne State responded positively to his approach, particularly appreciating his ability to use his own experiences as someone autistic to explain concepts in a relatable way. One therapist in the audience commented on how Hazlett's background in literature enabled him to convey living autistic in 2024 effectively. This level of insight allows neurotypical individuals to understand the overlooked challenges that autistic people face.

Hazlett emphasized that the most important takeaway from his talk was that micro-accommodations remain achievable and present no risk. They provide simple yet powerful adjustments that transform the daily experiences of neurodivergent individuals, making their interactions with the world smoother for co-workers and customers in the work world.

Dr. Adam Hazlett wraps up his presentation at Wayne State University for CommuniCare. 

Creating Inclusive Spaces

Hazlett also touched on the significance of creating inclusive environments prioritizing the whole person. He praised the Troy CommuniCare location for its thoughtful design, which included warm lighting and an inviting atmosphere that made the space feel inclusive and comfortable for everyone.

This focus on inclusive physical and emotional environments remains crucial in supporting neurodivergent individuals. As Hazlett noted, even small changes in the environment—like adjusting lighting or creating quiet areas—can be considered micro-accommodations that contribute to a more supportive, inclusive space.

Challenges and Takeaways

Hazlett said that one of the critical challenges in presenting neurodivergence and micro-accommodations is navigating the balance between sharing his personal experience and speaking from a place of expertise. Instead of focusing on clinical or academic definitions of neurodivergence, Hazlett's approach offered a more personal, humanizing perspective.

This humanization remains key in Humanities 101's broader message—normal doesn't exist, and society must move away from rigid expectations of behavior or ability. Embracing neurodiversity requires shifting cultural expectations and embracing differences as part of the human experience.

Conclusion: The Future is Inclusive

Dr. Adam Hazlett's presentation at Wayne State University underscored the importance of micro-accommodations in fostering neuro-inclusivity. Normalizing these simple adjustments can create environments where neurodivergent individuals feel supported and valued.

This is a call to action for educators, employers and society to embrace micro-accommodations to build more inclusive, equitable spaces for all. Whether through minor adjustments in communication, environment, or policy, the message is clear: inclusion is achievable and begins with seeing the humanity in everyone we serve.