Join us at the Jerome L. Greene Science Center for Exploring Minds, a three-day event series exploring cognitive differences. We'll look at the unique ways that people imagine and perceive the world. Panel discussions, a jazz concert, Q&As, with in-person and hybrid events.

Wednesday, April 9, beginning at 5pm

Imagine This: Reflections on Human Imagination

An insightful conversation about human imagination and aphantasia, the inability to form mental images. We'll discuss diverse ways of thinking and imagining and invite you to explore what your mental image looks like. A presentation of the book Ways of Thinking and Imagining created by The Living Lab will be followed by a panel with experts on the topic. Educators from Wallach Art Gallery will present activities to encourage you to reflect on how you and others may perceive the world differently. With Dr. Steve Fleming, Dr. Sarah Shomstein, Tom Ebeyer of Aphantasia Network, and moderated by Dr. Alfredo Spagna. Learn more and register here.

Thursday, April 10, 7:00pm-8:30pm

Music on the Brain: Unconventional Minds

A musical conversation about neurodiversity. We'll hear from two researchers who study the mind and who themselves perceive the world in an unconventional way. What are the challenges and advantages of being neurodivergent? We'll explore the deeply personal and unique ways that people experience the world and music.

Jazz pianist/composer Kelly Green leads an evening of jazz music and conversation with Dr. Sandra Romero Pinto, Alan Kanzer Postdoctoral Fellow at the Zuckerman Institute, and Emaad Razzak, psychology postbaccalaureate student at Columbia University. Learn more and register here.

Friday, April 11, multiple events, at 10:00am, 11:30am, and 2:00pm

Neurodiversity Day: Science and Society

A day of learning, connection, and exploration, designed to deepen understanding of neurodiversity and highlight the communities and resources that support it. Through expert talks, panel discussions, and real-life perspectives from scientists, educators, advocates, and families, we will explore the diverse ways people experience and engage with the world. Whether you're a researcher, educator, caregiver, or self-advocate, this event offers valuable insights and meaningful conversations about neurodiversity in science, education, and everyday life. Learn more and register here.

10:00am: In Their Own Voices: Autism Support Group at Columbia, a virtual presentation by Dr. Motoni Fong Hodges

11:30am: Neurodiversity and the Scientific Community, a hybrid panel with Dr. Dana Crawford, Dr. Ning Qian, Ara Bakhteyar, and Dr. Matteo Farinella, and moderated by Manon Casimir-Sainton

2:00pm: Lived Experiences, a hybrid panel with Patty Rojas, Artemis Christoforatos, Manon Casimir-Sainton, Arielle Pink, Luke Rosen, and Dr. Chris Ricupero, and moderated by Ara Bakhteyar