Launched in 2019, the Longhorn TIES (Transition, Inclusion, Empower, Success) program within New Student Services coordinates and facilitates neurodiversity initiatives at The University of Texas at Austin. Longhorn TIES seeks to enhance the student experience for students who identify as neurodivergent through advocacy, connections and training, starting with the New Student Orientation process and continuing throughout the student’s tenure at the university. Longhorn TIES encompasses: TIESplus and drop-in student support services, faculty and staff support, the Neurodiversity Leadership Council, presentations and training, and more.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity recognizes and celebrates the natural differences in human brain wiring. Individuals may self-identify as neurodivergent or identify with one of several neurodivergent diagnoses, including but not limited to: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder, Tourette’s Syndrome, and more. Neurodiversity is diversity, and neurodivergent students, staff, and faculty are essential and celebrated members of The University of Texas at Austin community.
Student Support
Longhorn TIES provides individualized support services to UT Austin students who identify as being on the autism spectrum or neurodiverse. Support services include TIESplus and drop-in support to address student’s academic, social and career related goals.
Faculty and Staff Support
Longhorn TIES has compiled resources for faculty and staff to better support neurodivergent students as well as resources for faculty and staff who identify as neurodivergent.
Neurodiversity Leadership Council
Longhorn TIES launched the Neurodiversity Leadership Council in January 2022 to uplift neurodivergent student voices on campus.
Presentations and Training
Longhorn TIES can facilitate custom neurodiversity trainings or workshops for your organization or department.
For Donors
Gifts from alumni, parents and friends of The University of Texas at Austin fund Longhorn TIES. To support, click the link below and type "Longhorn TIES" in the search bar.
Contact Us
Ashley Richardson-Minnitt, LCSW-S - Autism Spectrum Education and Outreach Administrator
Ashley.Richardson@austin.utexas.edu
Katharine Sucher, LMSW - Program Coordinator for Longhorn TIES
ksucher@austin.utexas.edu