Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) will officially dedicate its new Neurodiversity and Autism Center during a ceremony from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Thursday, April 17, 2025.
University officials, local leaders and supporters of the project will gather to celebrate the completion of the state-of-the-art, $10.5 million facility. The facility houses the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program, which provides specialized support for students on the autism spectrum as they navigate college life and prepare for future careers.
“This new facility represents a major step forward in ensuring all students have the resources they need to succeed in higher education,” said Mikala King, director of the autism transition program. “The TJ Swift House ASCEND Program is designed to provide essential academic, social and daily living support, and this new space will enhance our ability to serve students in meaningful ways.”
Sensory garden a key feature of facility
A key feature of the new facility is the Philanthropic Friends Giving Circle Sensory Garden, made possible through a major gift from the Philanthropic Friends Giving Circle. Led by local resident and former Missouri State University Board of Governors member Carol Silvey, the garden will provide a calming outdoor environment for students on the spectrum while maintaining an enclosed space for comfort and security.
The Neurodiversity and Autism Center was made possible through significant funding contributions, including $7.5 million in state funding secured with the support of former 33rd District state Sen. Karla Eslinger, R-Wasola; former 154th District state Rep. David Evans, R-West Plains; and former Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who signed the legislation for the appropriation in June 2022. Additional funding included $500,000 from the Howell County Commission’s American Rescue Plan Act funds and $2.5 million from the President’s Enhancement Fund at Missouri State University in Springfield.
Other sensory friendly amenities
Designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum, the 9,300-square-foot building features sensory-conscious elements such as indirect lighting, textured materials on carpets, walls and furniture, sound-absorbing materials and breakout rooms designed to help reduce overstimulation. The facility also includes classroom space tailored to support the unique learning styles of students in the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program.
“This project has been years in the making, and we are incredibly grateful to our state legislators, local government leaders and generous donors who helped make it a reality,” said MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster. “This facility will be a game-changer for our students and a model for other institutions looking to enhance support for neurodiverse learners.”
Lancaster emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting a learning environment for all students. “At Missouri State University-West Plains, we are dedicated to providing opportunities for all students to thrive. This facility is a testament to that mission, ensuring students on the autism spectrum have the resources they need to succeed academically, socially and in their future careers.”
The dedication ceremony will take place outside the new facility on the MSU-WP campus. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the building following the ceremony.
For more information about the dedication ceremony, contact the MSU-WP office of university communications at 417-255-7960.
For more information about the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program, visit WP.MissouriState.edu/ASCEND or email King at MikalaKing@MissouriState.edu.