COD celebrates 15 years of autism support group Autismerica

College of DuPage student organization Autismerica is celebrating 15 years of educating neurodiverse students about COD and creating a safe, supportive environment where they can socialize.

“We provide a place for students to connect and build community. This is one of the most important things I think community colleges can and should do,” said Michael Duggan, counselor for students with disabilities and professor at COD.

Autismerica was created after the mother of a student shared with Duggan her hopes for a space where her son, who often felt isolated and misunderstood, could meet peers like himself.

“This resonated with me,” Duggan said. “So, in an attempt to do something, I sent a letter out to anyone at the college who I knew was neurodiverse and asked if they would like to get together and form a group to socialize and have fun. There was a large response.”

In the group’s early meetings, attendance averaged around 30 students. Today, Autismerica welcomes between 100 and 120 attendees per meeting, including COD students, parents and students from other schools and communities. The group meets monthly on campus, where members participate in group activities such as video games, board games, karaoke, and other creative outlets.

“There is no better feeling than when you have found your ‘tribe’ of students who understand exactly who you are. I like to think Autismerica gives students a chance to seek out this shared understanding,” Duggan said.

To celebrate the milestone, Autismerica is hosting a 15th anniversary celebration during its meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, in the Student Services Center, Room 1103, on the college’s Glen Ellyn campus, 425 Fawell Blvd.

The event will include cake, pizza, and participation from Autismerica members from the past 15 years. All are welcome to attend.

“It has been one of the greatest joys of my career. Autismerica has become a small family to so many students and parents through the years, and I feel deeply honored to be a part of such a wonderful group,” Duggan said.

Learn more about Autismerica at cod.edu/student-life/clubs-org/autismerica.html.