Campbell community comes together for Autism Awareness Day
Campbell University brought students, faculty, and families together on April 9 in the Oscar N. Harris Student Union for its first Autism Awareness Day. This event was designed to celebrate neurodiversity, promote understanding, and highlight the University’s commitment to inclusion.
The initiative was led by junior Addie Simon as part of an Independent Study in Education, transforming her passion for advocacy into a campus-wide experience focused on autism awareness and belonging.
“I knew our faculty, staff, students, and alumni already cared deeply about individuals with autism, so I wanted to create an opportunity to highlight that support, celebrate awareness, and showcase Campbell’s heart for inclusion and make it better,” Simon said.
Throughout the day, attendees participated in hands-on activities, engaged with campus resources and joined conversations centered on inclusion and advocacy. A collaborative art project invited participants to contribute handprints to a campus painting symbolizing unity and support.
“The importance of the Autism Awareness Event is to share that those who have ASD have the ability to become amazing and smart human beings; they just need to see that it is possible and they have the resources,” said special education major Anna Johnson, who helped lead the art activity.
For faculty and program leaders, the event reflected a broader mission to support students with diverse learning needs and strengthen awareness across campus.
“Our first annual Autism Awareness Day was inspired by the vision and leadership of junior, Addie Simon,” said Dr. Jennifer Lowry, assistant professor of special education. “Rooted in her calling to serve as an advocate for individuals with autism, Addie’s work brought together students, faculty, and families for a meaningful day centered on autism and inclusion.”
Dean of the School of Education and Human Sciences, Al Bryant, emphasized the importance of the initiative in strengthening both awareness and the field of special education.
“Dr. Lowry and her special education students have worked hard this year to highlight the field of special education, with hopes of encouraging more great students to go into this very important field,” Bryant said. “It is my pleasure to support this effort and help get the word out about special education and needs like autism awareness.”
With support from special education majors, faculty members like Dr. Lori Langdon, and the University’s Disability Services team, the event highlighted collaboration across campus and a shared commitment to advocacy and education.
As Autism Awareness Day continues to grow, organizers hope it will serve as a lasting reminder of the importance of inclusion—not just for a single day, but across campus life.
