Des Plaines, Ill. (April 27, 2026) — Oakton College is gaining global recognition for its leadership in neurodiversity, while continuing to make a meaningful impact locally.
Oakton recently received the 2026 Davos Neurodiversity Summit Community College Leadership Impact Award, recognizing Oakton’s intentional efforts to create an environment where neurodiverse learners can thrive.
The Davos Neurodiversity Summit brought together leaders to reimagine workplaces, education systems and communities. Held alongside the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, the summit centered authentic neuroinclusion and dialogue in spaces where global decisions are shaped.
“Neurodiversity is an asset, not only in the classroom, but in the workforce, and our role is to ensure students are empowered and prepared to succeed,” said Mark Kiel, Oakton’s dean of Counseling, Health and Wellness Services. “Oakton is committed to recognizing the neurodiversity of our community and developing policies and procedures that enhance the Oakton experience for all students, employees and community members.”
The College also marked Neurodiversity Celebration Month by welcoming nationally recognized expert Maureen Dunne, Ph.D., to campus to highlight the growing importance of neurodiverse talent in education and today’s workforce.
Organized by the Oakton Neurodiversity Working Group, the event featured two sessions focused on supporting neurodiverse students and strengthening inclusive workforce practices. Presentations by Dunne highlighted practical strategies to support students’ transition into meaningful careers, the importance of inclusive learning environments, and the growing demand for neurodiverse talent in an increasingly technology-driven economy. They also emphasized converting principles of universal design from theory and awareness into visible, applied practice.
Dunne is the author of the national bestseller “The Neurodiversity Edge: The Essential Guide to Embracing Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Neurological Differences for Any Organization.” She is the first community college graduate to be named a Rhodes Scholar, earning her doctorate from the University of Oxford. She is the former president of the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) and was recently honored by the Golden Apple Foundation with the 2024 Impact Award.
Oakton is committed to creating environments where every student can thrive and contribute their strengths. For more information, visit Oakton’s website.