Webinar: Embracing Neurodivergence – Coping Mechanisms and Colleague Support

Webinar Description:

In this webinar, I will briefly share my professional journey with ADHD in digital project management, detailing the coping mechanisms I developed before and after my very recent diagnosis. The focus will be on how these strategies have been helpful in managing projects, and the mistakes encountered along the way.

Prior to my diagnosis, I relied on innate methods such as intense bursts of focus and creative problem-solving. Post-diagnosis, I’m emphasizing structured routines, mindfulness practices, and technology aids to enhance productivity and maintain momentum in projects.

Moreover, I will discuss the challenges that ADHD presents in traditional work environments, emphasizing the need for adaptive project management methodologies. I will highlight the importance of personalized task management, flexible scheduling, and the utilization of visual aids.

I will offer insights into how neurotypical colleagues can contribute to an inclusive workspace. Simple yet effective changes, such as clear communication, recognition of diverse work styles, and supportive feedback systems, can make a significant difference.

The presentation will also seek to engage the audience by inviting them to share their coping mechanisms via the chat. This exchange aims to foster a collective understanding and generate a pool of resources that can benefit all attendees. 

The goal is to encourage dialogue that not only empowers neurodivergent individuals but also educates and equips neurotypical professionals to be allies in building a more accommodating and productive environment for everyone. Medical advice will not be provided.

Learning outcomes:

• Coping mechanisms in the workplace for neurodivergent individuals
• Tips for managing projects with ADHD
• Common pitfalls in the workplace for individuals with ADHD
• Ways to support and accommodate our neurodivergent colleagues

About the Presenter:

Josh Morgan’s career in libraries began as a student employee in Clemson University Libraries’ digitization lab in 2008. He served as the lab manager and digital projects manager from 2010-2021, digitizing manuscripts and university archive collections, as well as assisting various departments and faculty with their eclectic digitization needs.

Much of his time was also spent consulting and supporting more than fifteen GLAM institutions across South Carolina in order to digitize and provide access to their cultural heritage material through the South Carolina Digital Library. He also managed the digitization projects for over twenty National Park systems and two state park systems for the IMLS grant project, the Open Parks Network, producing well over 300,000 images for public access.

As a left-handed, gay Jew in the South, Josh’s professional efforts have also been focused on supporting and empowering historically marginalized groups by founding Clemson University’s LGBTQ Commission in 2011, and serving as staff senator for the Libraries and Policy & Welfare Committee co-chair for the senate, eventually earning the President’s Senator of the Year award in 2021.

In August of 2021, he joined the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Libraries as the digital production manager. Two and half years later, he was officially diagnosed with inattentive-type ADHD, leading to another journey of self-discovery and advocacy.

Live captioning will be provided.

This presentation portion of this webinar will be recorded and shared with all registrants afterward. The Q&A and discussion afterward will not be recorded.

[maxbutton id=”2″ url=”https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VSBfbEmURbuDuGLI9rrwEw” text=”Register via Zoom” ]

**All participants will have the option to request a certificate of attendance for one contact hour.**

All CLRC events are open to CLRC members and members of the Empire State Library Network.

All Attendees are expected to follow CLRC’s Code of Conduct