How do you write a speech about Taylor Swift, disability history, and your own experiences with neurodivergence? Click to find out.

I gave a graduation speech recently, and I’m pretty proud of how it turned out. I’m also incredibly proud of all of the fantastic Columbia graduates who organized their inaugural Disability Affinity Graduation. Many thanks to the student organizers for picking me to speak. It was truly an honor to be a part of your day..

Keynote Address given at the Disability Affinity Graduation Celebration at Columbia University in the City of New York on April 22, 2023

Heather Swadley

Dr. Heather Swadley is an academic focusing on issues involving disability rights and representation. When not writing, she enjoys interior design, buying new notebooks, and playing with her three wonderful cats.