Mercyhurst expands opportunities for neurodiverse students with transformative grant
Mercyhurst University is breaking new ground with two innovative programs aimed at empowering young people on the autism spectrum. Thanks to a generous $293,600 grant from the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust, the university’s Autism Initiative at Mercyhurst (AIM) is set to revolutionize access to education and career readiness for both high school and college students.
“We are profoundly thankful to the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust for its steadfast support,” said Mercyhurst President Kathleen A. Getz, Ph.D. “The remarkable success of AIM as an international model reflects the trust’s commitment to our nearly century-long mission of serving underserved populations, including young people with autism.”
AIM: A Legacy of Growth
Since its launch in 2008 with just four students, AIM has flourished into a nationally recognized leader in neurodiversity-focused education, now serving 72 students—a 20 percent increase over last year alone. The new grant will expand AIM’s reach by bolstering its social, life, and career skills training while introducing two groundbreaking initiatives: a dual enrollment program for high school students and a campus employment network for college students.
Bridging High School to College
AIM’s dual enrollment program, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Cybersecurity Center (PCC), aims to inspire high school students to explore higher education. Through a blend of academics and hands-on experience, students in western Pennsylvania can enroll in Mercyhurst’s online “Introduction to Cybersecurity” course, taught by Dr. Christopher Mansour. Alongside rigorous academics, AIM staff will provide virtual support and enrichment activities to create a holistic learning experience.
The program doesn’t stop there. Mercyhurst will also launch a summer camp for high school students who have completed their junior or senior year, offering them a taste of campus life. Participants will live in residence halls, take a college course, and engage in activities designed to ease their transition to higher education.
“With the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals and the natural aptitudes many individuals on the spectrum bring to the field, this initiative perfectly aligns with AIM’s expertise and the needs of the job market,” said Ryan Palm, executive director of the Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity, under which AIM is housed.
Building Pathways to Employment
For AIM’s current students, the grant will establish a robust campus employment network to provide paid, career-aligned opportunities. For example, a graphic design major could work with the university’s Marketing Department, or a history major with the university Archives. The AIM staff will work closely with both the student and the sponsoring office to provide job coaching, executive functioning support, and best practices for employing neurodivergent individuals. Financial support from the grant will help provide student wages, training for AIM staff, and training for Mercyhurst leaders who will employ AIM students.
“Work experience is critical, especially for neurodivergent individuals entering the job market,” said Palm. “This program will give our students a competitive edge while educating employers on the value of hiring diverse talent.”
Additionally, AIM plans to replicate the success of Mercyhurst’s Center for Intelligence Research Analysis and Training (CIRAT) by creating opportunities for students to work on real-world contracts with external clients. Paid positions in this program will allow students to showcase their skills while building professional networks.
A Vision of Inclusion and Impact
By establishing a pipeline from high school to college and beyond, Mercyhurst aims to redefine success for neurodivergent students. With this unprecedented support from the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust, the university is setting a new standard for inclusivity in education and the workplace.
“Our goal is simple yet transformative: to empower neurodivergent learners to thrive in college, achieve their career aspirations, and help fill critical workforce gaps,” Palm said. “This is just the beginning of what we can achieve together.”
PHOTO: AIM students spent several days in Philadelphia this month exploring career opportunities.