SPC Student Presents Neurodiversity Research at National AHA Scholars Symposium

St. Philip’s College (SPC) student Chris Sauceda joined more than 40 undergraduate scholars from across the country at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scholars Program Research Symposium in Dallas on April 4, 2025. The event celebrated the achievements of its 2024 – 2025 AHA Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Scholars Program through a day of research presentations, networking, and reflection.

The AHA HSI Scholars Program emphasizes inclusive research and culturally sensitive health practices. Through mentorship, leadership training, and exposure to health disparities, the program develops a pipeline of researchers committed to improving health outcomes in underserved communities.

At the symposium, Chris presented his research titled “The Prevalence of ADHD and Autism in Community Colleges”. Drawing from personal experience with his son’s diagnosis of autism, Chris focused on neurodivergence and advocated for data collection practices that are inclusive of all demographics.

During his remarks, Chris encouraged his fellow scholars to keep pushing forward with their research and work for their community.

“As we graduate, our job is not done,” he said. “We didn’t come to prove we belong in these spaces; we came to transform them. There are still voices going unheard, and there are still barriers holding people back. And if we, as scholars, researchers, and advocates, don’t do the work, who will?”

Chris’ participation in the AHA Scholars Symposium underscores the critical role of student-led research in addressing health disparities and advancing inclusive public health initiatives.