Adelphi Announces Expansion of Support and Career Opportunities for Neurodiverse Students

Adelphi University's award-winning, nationally recognized neurodiversity support programs-Bridges to Adelphi and the Learning Resource Program-are expanding their efforts to provide individualized and comprehensive academic, social and vocational services for the transition from high school to college and beyond for neurodiverse students.

Launched in 2007, Bridges to Adelphi has grown from its beginnings as a small program with three students into a leader in higher education neurodiversity support, recognized for student success inside and outside the classroom and boasting a strong 80 percent student retention rate.

Adelphi's Learning Resource Program is a structured support program for the unique implementation of learning specialist services, executive function coaching and mental health counseling that meets the needs of students with learning or attention challenges.

"Adelphi believes in the potential of each student-no matter how they learn or what their challenges may be-and strives to be a partner in their success," said Christopher Storm, PhD, provost and senior executive vice president of academic affairs. "Our programs to support neurodiverse students offer a pathway to grow and learn in a caring environment that enhances the college experience and develops important life skills. We're proud to continue building our offerings that help students achieve their goals."

Bridges From Adelphi: Connecting Neurodivergent Students With Employers

To extend support to its growing alumni network and soon-to-be graduates, the University created a new branch of the Bridges program in 2025: Bridges From Adelphi. This initiative builds on the University's long-standing mission of transforming students' lives by guiding graduates beyond Commencement through career advocacy and inclusive employer partnerships.

The Bridges From Adelphi initiative was launched with a generous $250,000 pledge from Adelphi Trustee Gregory Carey and Bridges Advisory Board Chair Katy Cochrane Carey, parents of Bridges graduate Declan Carey '23. Their commitment builds on their establishment of The Katy and Greg Carey P '23 Bridges to Adelphi Excellence Fund in 2024, which supports financial assistance, academic and vocational resources, and enriching social experiences.

Bridges graduates have successfully secured employment across various industries, including healthcare, financial services, technology, nonprofits, marketing, and sports and entertainment.

In a recent article in the Boca Raton Tribune, Bridges to Adelphi advisory board member Justin Nelson shared that his son graduated from the program and advocated to address the employment gap. "Most employers do not understand how to hire or interact with neurodivergent candidates," Nelson said. "You have to get proper training."

He added that "If you can lay out the rules and know how to work and communicate with that group of people, you probably have some of your best employees."

To Nelson's point, the Bridges From Adelphi program will provide much-needed support and advocacy for neurodivergent students heading into the workforce.

Welcoming a New Executive Director

As part of the broader evolution of Adelphi's neurodiverse student services, the University welcomed Deseree Wiltshire '04, MA '05, EdD, as executive director of Bridges to Adelphi and the Learning Resource Program on August 10, 2026. Dr. Wiltshire holds her bachelor's and master's degrees from Adelphi and previously served as an adjunct instructor of psychology.

In her new role, she will provide strategic leadership for Bridges and the Learning Resource Program, with a focus on strengthening student recruitment and retention, advancing neuro-inclusive practices across campus, and expanding pathways to career and postgraduation success for neurodivergent students.

"Stepping into this role to support Adelphi's neurodiverse students is both a privilege and a passion," said Dr. Wiltshire. "This work has always been a labor of love for me, driven by an unwavering belief in what every single student can achieve when given the right tools."

Building the Future: Neuro-inclusive Living-Learning Community and Grant-Funded Spaces

Adelphi's new Neuro-inclusive Living-Learning Community (Neuro-inclusive LLC) provides a dedicated residential space designed to foster connection, belonging, and opportunities for academic, personal and professional growth. As the community develops, Bridges to Adelphi is working to create intentional programming that may include themed dinners, social activities and workshops focused on areas such as executive functioning, social skills and self-advocacy.

This summer, Bridges to Adelphi received $75,000 from the Home Depot Foundation to support the creation of a new, modern Neuro-inclusive Sensory and Wellness Lounge within the Neuro-inclusive LLC in Eddy Hall. The new space will provide a dedicated environment where students can regulate sensory experiences, reduce stress, engage in academic work and build community within a supportive residential setting. The space is also intended to be available to the broader campus community, promoting accessibility, inclusion and student well-being.

To learn more, visit Adelphi's Bridges to Adelphi and Learning Resources Program pages.