Rotary Values in Action: Embracing Neurodiversity at Work
by Deborah Copeland
When we speak of Rotary’s values—service, integrity, diversity—we often picture community projects or global initiatives. Yet these values live in the everyday spaces where we work. One opportunity for businesses today is embracing neurodiversity, particularly for individuals with Autism and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Doing so is not charity; it’s a recognition that talent comes in many forms and that inclusion drives innovation.
Consider the story of a woman who spent years excelling as a curriculum designer, unaware the challenges she faced were rooted in ADD. Like many adults, her diagnosis came later in life, sparked by her child’s similar journey. At first, the news felt overwhelming. For years, she had unknowingly embraced different labels, not recognizing neurological differences were shaping her experiences.
The turning point came when she began to see her diagnosis as a lens. Through research and reflection, she discovered her ability to hyperfocus on complex problems and her wide-ranging curiosity were not flaws but strengths. These traits allowed her to design learning experiences that were richer, more engaging, and more adaptable to diverse learners. By embracing her own differences, she unlocked a new level of creativity and confidence.
Her journey also reveals a truth that applies to every workplace: accommodation is not about lowering standards; they are about removing barriers so people can perform at their peak. For her, it meant advocating clear deadlines, structured workflows, and basic strategies to manage sensory overload in a crowded office. These adjustments were simple, yet they transformed her productivity and well-being. In return, her employer gained a more innovative contributor and dedicated employee.
Dr. Russell Barkley, a leading voice in ADD research, reminds us ADD is not a matter of lack of discipline or disorganization. It is a disorder that may pose challenges in managing time, memory, and self-regulation. However, each experience of ADD is highly individualized. Mislabeling or generalizing these differences as character flaws does harm, both to individuals and to organizations that miss out on their potential. When businesses understand and embrace individualized accommodations, they move from stigma to strategy.
By championing neurodiversity, Rotary members can lead by example—showing inclusion is a business advantage. Diverse minds bring fresh ideas, resilience, and perspectives that fuel progress.
As we look to the future of work in Oklahoma City and beyond, let us commit to workplaces where differences are not hidden but celebrated. In doing so, we honor Rotary’s values and unlock the full spectrum of human potential—one conversation, one accommodation, one success story at a time.
Thank you for this article, Deborah!