Student Spotlight: Advocate for Accessibility and Inclusion

As we reflect on 2024, few stories embody resilience and leadership as powerfully as Jordyn Zimmerman’s. A Quantic MBA Alumnus, Jordyn is a passionate educator, disability rights advocate, and trailblazer working tirelessly to redefine what is possible for individuals with disabilities. Her journey to becoming a globally recognized leader is nothing short of extraordinary.

Finding Her Voice

Diagnosed with nonspeaking autism at a young age, Jordyn was misunderstood and often segregated within the education system. For 18 years, she lacked the tools to communicate effectively—a reality that left her frustrated and excluded. But everything changed when she gained access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) through an iPad at age 18.

This breakthrough opened the door to self-expression, advocacy, and connection. “The iPad gave me so much confidence to really connect with people,” Jordyn recalls. With her newfound voice, Jordyn graduated high school within a year, pursued higher education, and began using her platform to champion accessibility and inclusion for all.

A Catalyst for Change

Today, Jordyn leverages her experience to drive systemic change. She serves as Board Chair of CommunicationFIRST, the only national nonprofit dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals who cannot rely on speech. Under her leadership, the organization has advanced initiatives that ensure access to robust communication tools, improve self-determination, and advocate for inclusive policies.

Her advocacy extends to her work as a two-time appointee on The United States President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities, where she collaborates on policies that promote equity and inclusion. She has also shared her insights on autism and inclusion through keynote speeches, global presentations, publications in The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and The 19th, as well as being recently interviewed by CBS News.

Jordyn’s story was also featured in the documentary This Is Not About Me, which highlights the systemic barriers nonspeaking autistic individuals face and her fight for inclusion. The film sheds light on her personal journey and the broader need for change in education and society.

Impact Through Education

Jordyn’s advocacy is deeply rooted in her educational journey. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Education Policy from Ohio University, where she was recognized with the International Council for Exceptional Children’s “Yes I Can!” Award. She went on to complete her Master’s in Education at Boston College and earn her MBA with Quantic, which has further empowered her leadership.

“Quantic provided me with the skills to lead with confidence and structure,” Jordyn shares. “The tools I gained have strengthened my ability to manage teams, develop strategic plans, and amplify my advocacy work.”

Vision for the Future

Jordyn’s mission is clear: to ensure all individuals have access to effective communication and inclusive communities. She continues to challenge the status quo by advocating for policies that prioritize early access to AAC, eliminate IQ-based assumptions, and expand community-based services for individuals with disabilities.

Her leadership is fueled by her belief in disrupting ableism and creating spaces where everyone belongs. “Every time I present and share my story, I impact one person,” she explains. “I know I can’t change the world alone, but I can create ripples to facilitate meaningful improvements.”

Jordyn’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, education, and purpose. Her journey from silence to leadership exemplifies the transformative potential of empowering individuals with the tools they need to thrive. As we celebrate the end of 2024, Jordyn’s impact reminds us that creating a more inclusive world is not only possible but necessary. Through her advocacy and determination, she is paving the way for a future where every voice is heard and valued.