Kaden Mont arrived at TU at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The graphic design major is warm-hearted and driven, but like many others during the pandemic, he initially struggled academically and socially. Mont felt these challenges were exacerbated by his neurodivergence. But what he didn’t know is he would find support systems to overcome his struggles—and would help dozens of others do the same.

For Mont, the path to success started by connecting with Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS). Disability specialist Stephen Willems helped Mont secure accommodations that transformed his academic experience. He began to excel academically, and as he did, his confidence grew. The experience made him a passionate believer in the power of accommodations—something he wanted to pay forward.

“Stephen grew from being an adviser to also a mentor and friend," Kaden says. "I wanted to do for others what he did for me—make TU a more welcoming place for neurodivergent students.”  

Empowering fellow students 

Encouraged by Willems, Mont joined the Neurodiverse Peer Educators Program where he works to educate the campus community on neurodiversity, promote inclusivity and empower neurodivergent students to build community. The program raises awareness about neurodiversity and fosters an affirming culture on campus. Mont learned to lead discussions, advocate for neurodivergent students and build educational initiatives. He welcomes the opportunity it gives him to shift perspectives about neurodiversity—a term that explains the many unique ways individuals’ brains work.

“It’s important for people to see that neurodivergence isn’t a limitation. It’s just a different way of processing the world. The more we talk about it, the more inclusive our spaces become.”

Kaden Mont '26

As a junior, Mont helps create those inclusive spaces through a formal role in ADS, bringing him full circle with the department. Now Mont helps students navigate their accommodations and works in the ADS testing center to support student needs while maintaining academic integrity. He does it all with empathy and understanding.

"I feel lucky to have been a part of Kaden's development, seeing him come in and register with ADS, navigating those initial barriers and then growing to a point where he’s not just comfortable within himself but actively working to create that comfort and community for others," Willems says. "Kaden's journey—from stepping into our office with hesitation to becoming an integral part of our outreach—has been genuinely inspiring."

Advocating Abroad

“Now I'm confident I can thrive no matter where I am. I want other neurodivergent students to know that’s possible too."

Kaden Mont '26

This summer, Mont will take his advocacy abroad when he fulfills a long-term goal of studying in Japan. The avid anime, music and video game fan is looking forward to experiencing Japanese culture firsthand, but he knows he'll need to work through securing his accommodations abroad. Luckily, his experiences with ADS, the Neurodiverse Committee and Neurodiversity Peer Educators have taught him how to speak up for himself.

"I've learned how to self-advocate and adapt, and that gives me confidence that I can thrive no matter where I am," Mont says. "I want other neurodivergent students to know that’s possible too."