2027 Request for Proposals

The Northern California Neurodiversity & Disability Symposium at Chico State is a community-centered event that brings together neurodivergent and disabled individuals, families, educators, clinicians, researchers, and advocates to share knowledge, build connections, and advance inclusive practices. Entering its tenth year, the Symposium has evolved into a neuroaffirming space that values lived experience alongside evidence-based research, highlighting practical strategies, creative expression, accessibility, and disability-centered perspectives across education, healthcare, employment, and community life. Through presentations, workshops, and collaborative dialogue, the Symposium fosters belonging, amplifies underrepresented voices, and supports more equitable and inclusive communities throughout Northern California and beyond.

We invite proposals that reflect the following commitments:

• Center and honor the expertise of neurodivergent and disabled individuals—including as presenters, panelists, and co-creators of knowledge

• Ground content in evidence-based practices and current research

• Bridge research and real-world application in ways that are practical and community-relevant

• Promote equity, accessibility, and a strengths-based, neuroaffirming perspective

• Welcome and serve families, educators, clinicians, and community members at all levels of experience

We welcome submissions from neurodivergent and disabled individuals, researchers, clinicians, educators (K–12 and higher education), parents and caregivers, community advocates, and cross-sector collaborators. Submissions at all career stages are encouraged.

Presentation categories include:

1. Lived Experience & Self-Advocacy

2. Evidence-Based Practices & Clinical Interventions

3. Education, Inclusion, & Learning Environments

4. Family, Caregiving & the Lifespan

5. Community, Employment & Independence

Sessions:

All sessions are 60 minutes in length (approximately 45 minutes of presentation and 15 minutes of audience Q&A. Individual presentations, panels or workshops are preferred.

A complete RFP document [1] is available with additional details.

[1]

Submit your proposal [2] today. The deadline to submit is August 1, 2026