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Best Buddies at University of Nevada, Reno Champions Inclusion for Neurodiverse Students
Best Buddies, an international association dedicated to fostering one-to-one friendships and inclusion, is experiencing meaningful growth at the University of Nevada, Reno, providing vital connections for neurodiverse students and building a more welcoming campus community.
The University of Nevada, Reno chapter of Best Buddies addresses a long-standing issue of segregation faced by individuals with disabilities. Historically, these individuals have been marginalized in educational, professional, and social environments. Best Buddies actively combats this trend by creating opportunities for meaningful integration and fostering a sense of belonging.
Founded in 2011,the club currently boasts 63 members and resumed activity in 2024 after a brief pause during the pandemic. Jessica Stewart, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, an assistant professor in speech pathology and audiology, serves as the faculty advisor, providing guidance while empowering students to lead the organization.
“Friends are so significant,” Stewart stated. “I am honored to be a part of an organization and club that supports friendship and inclusion on campus and in our community.”
The organization’s impact extends beyond the university grounds. Best Buddies is an official club with the Associated Students of the University of Nevada (ASUN),and the president actively promotes the club during orientation events like NevadaFIT,a program designed to prepare incoming freshmen for higher education.
Membership in Best Buddies offers a range of involvement options. Students can participate in one-to-one friendships, event planning, fundraising, social media management, and training initiatives.The club prioritizes meeting the diverse needs of its members, the campus, and the broader community. Regular meetings, held on the second Friday of each month, feature educational components and engaging activities, fostering a space for connection and learning. the final meeting for 2025 is scheduled for December 12.
Beyond the University of Nevada, Reno, Best Buddies has a growing presence in northern and Southern Nevada. A second chapter operates at Damonte Ranch High School, led by president Bella gongaware, while chapters also exist at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and numerous high schools throughout Las Vegas.
Gongaware’s personal experience fuels her commitment to the organization. “I have a close friend from middle school with a disability who experienced bullying from students, family and even teachers,” she shared. “Her disability was hidden, and it seemed that only her parents and I could recognize her struggles. Today, she is doing great and has a bright future, but that situation helped me realize that I can also help other students with disabilities feel welcome, included and on the path to success.” The Damonte Ranch chapter, launched in November 2024, currently has 20 members and aspiring plans for expansion.
The driving force behind Best Buddies’ success is a deep-seated belief in the value of inclusivity. Taylor hall, the current Best Buddies president and a third-year speech pathology and audiology student, recalls witnessing the separation of neurodiverse students in high school. “Everyone deserves respect,” Hall emphasized.”It is indeed why I chose this club – it fills my cup.”
Students interested in joining Best Buddies can connect with neurodiverse peers, build lasting relationships, and strengthen their ties to the university and the surrounding community. Data on how to apply can be found online,and the club maintains an
