Amid growing national attention to neurodiversity, a student-led initiative is proving that meaningful change can begin on campus. 

On April 19, The Hun School of Princeton hosted the landmark Kaleidoscope Autism Inclusion Celebration. 
“This is the Hun School’s first student-organized event that combines cultural expression with social advocacy for autism,” said Lynn McNulty, Director of Outreach. 
“We had over 100 participants. In the past, we’ve emphasized cultural and academic diversity. This time, we took a significant step forward in recognizing neurodiversity, which is a natural extension of our inclusion work. What makes this so meaningful is that students designed this event themselves—it’s a real-world step toward blurring the boundaries between school and society, encouraging students to engage with real social needs rather than relying solely on textbook answers.” 

The event was co-organized by the nonprofit Love Without Borders USA and its local initiative, the Autism Awareness Alliance – Princeton, and was fully led by student volunteers from the Hun Community Club. 

What made the event especially impactful wasn’t just its scale or programming—it was the remarkable interdisciplinary collaboration and shared spirit of community. Psychologists, disability advocates, artists, cultural performers, parents, and local volunteers came together to create a space filled with joy, empathy, and inclusion. Activities ranged from keynote speeches to hands-on roundtable conversations, ensuring there was something for everyone. 

“Our goal wasn’t just awareness—it was to help students learn how to build a space of joy, respect, and belonging with peers on the spectrum,” said Sean Xu, an 11th-grade student and chair of the event. 
“We wanted every guest—autistic individuals, parents, educators, and allies—to feel seen and embraced. That’s why we placed different booths thoughtfully across campus, making the event sensory-friendly and semi-private to support self-expression in a large environment.” 

The program featured keynote presentations by Dr. Matthew Zakreski, a licensed psychologist, and Timothy Rohrer, an autistic self-advocate, educator, and author. 

“I am different from what my world demands I be. And I am not worse for it,” shared Dr. Zakreski—capturing the spirit of the event: celebrating difference, breaking stigma, and empowering neurodivergent individuals with dignity and love. 

A panel discussion titled “Neurodiversity: Challenges and Opportunities Under the New Administration” followed. Parents and educators shared deeply personal stories, shedding light on the gap between public perception and lived experience and advocating for greater education and support. 

Timothy Rohrer shared his own journey as an autistic young adult. He is the founder of Tips4Inclusion, a YouTube creator, and a managing partner of the teen-led nonprofit 5Help Foundation. He has spoken in schools, at conferences, and at the New Jersey Department of Education. 

Special education teacher and parent Alicia Beecham noted: “Hearing their struggles and what they’ve overcome and accomplished was incredibly powerful. It gives me hope for my own son’s future.” She added, “This was also a fun, hands-on learning experience for families—and a beautiful example of inclusion.” 

Volunteer tarot reader Marilyn Sukonick-Zeff, who also has a child with special needs, reflected: “Today, I am armed with so much information. Fabulous!” 

Cultural performance took center stage with a moving Bian Lian (Face-Changing) show led by Sean Xu and performed by 26 dancers. Blending traditional Chinese opera with stylized choreography, the piece reinterpreted the concept of masking—a common autistic experience—as a metaphor for transformation, identity, and emotional resilience. 

Interactive booths offered fabric painting, pottery, face painting, tarot reading, and traditional pitch-pot games. The school lawn came alive with laughter, color, and creativity. Volunteers ensured every guest felt welcome, safe, and included. 

Radha Mishra, Director of College Counseling at Hun School, remarked: “This student-led event demonstrated not just leadership and social responsibility—it was leadership made visible through action. That is the true power of education: when students step forward, take initiative, and grow as part of something larger than themselves.” 

The day before the celebration, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman sent a personal letter of commendation, delivered by her staff, recognizing the students’ efforts and social impact. “Her letter reminded us that what we’re building isn’t just a school event,” said Sean Xu. “It’s a growing movement for inclusion and advocacy.” 

With over 100 attendees from across New Jersey and neighboring states, the Kaleidoscope celebration became a model of student-led, community-powered inclusion.