Ben VanHook

Hello, my name is Ben VanHook!

I am a neurodivergent (autistic and ADHD) master's student (in public policy - emphasis in education policy) at George Mason University.

I speak about my lived experience as a disabled person of colour (I was born in China) going through both, education and employment systems, discussing the successes/barriers, what supports have helped/hurt me, best practises, navigating society as a person encompassing many differing intersections (Asian, Jewish, neurodivergent, adopted)

I want to transition society away from autism acceptance and into the age of autism appreciation as I have always seen mere acceptance as much different from appreciation. I also want to bridge the gap between neurotypicals and us neurodivergent individuals through working together and collaboration with neurotypicals.

I have done a lot of public speaking work, having spoken at many conferences, panels, and presentations (mainly on education and employment reform), domestically (I am located in the US) and abroad (for Irabina in Melbourne, Australia), to both colleges (Stanford University, John Hopkins University, Chestnut Hill College) and employers, and have written many articles about how our neurodivegent community can be supported! I most recently spoke on a disability policy panel for the United Nations’ 2023 World Autism Acceptance Day summit!

For more information, visit my Linktree!

Best, Ben VanHook

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/vanhooksiel