Making an impact: the Delaware UCEDD's Spectrum Scholars

August 16, 2023

Spectrum Scholars Melissa Gatti and Andrew Martin, and Spectrum Scholars Program Manager Wes Garton, smile for the camera.

Spectrum Scholars, a college-to-career program for autistic students that’s administered by the University of Delaware’s Center for Disabilities Studies, has turned out its first graduates.

Andrew Martin graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in Applied Molecular Biology & Biotechnology and in June began work as a biotechnician at SDIX, an immuno-solutions company specializing in large-scale antibody production. Melissa Gatti graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and is continuing her studies in an accelerated master’s program.

“Andrew’s and Melissa’s eagerness to enhance their advocacy skills, career preparedness, and independence dovetailed well with the aims and offerings of the Spectrum Scholars program,” said Wes Garton, Spectrum Scholars program manager. “We’re all about supporting autistic students’ readiness to succeed on campus and in the workplace.”  

Launched in 2018 in partnership with JPMorgan Chase & Co., Spectrum Scholars attracts autistic students who already have been admitted to the university and wish to benefit from the program’s coaching sessions, peer mentoring, study sessions, social engagement, and career development opportunities. The program also includes a significant research component, which is driving change and earning national and international recognition in the fields of autism advocacy, mental health, and inclusion.  

“Thirty-three students are now actively enrolled in the program,” said Garton. “In the coming months they’ll be participating in job shadowing opportunities and new independent life skills workshops. Several of them will be graduating in the winter and spring and, we fully expect, securing positions that align with the goals they set for themselves.” 

The Spectrum Scholars program also supports the needs of other neurodivergent university students at the University of Delaware and offers trainings and workshops to campus departments and the local community so they can better understand autism and foster more inclusive environments. 

For more information about Spectrum Scholars, contact the program directly at [email protected].