Ashleigh Hillier

Ashleigh Hillier, Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Massachusetts Lowell in the Department of Psychology within the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. She serves as the Director for the Center for Neurodiversity Education, Support and Training (NEST) and as the Coordinator for the Interdisciplinary Minor in Disability Studies. Her work focuses on neurodivergent adolescents and adults, particularly issues around transition including employment, college experiences and preparation, health care, gender identity, and financial literacy.

Education Background:

• Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Lincoln, United Kingdom
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Lincolnshire and Humberside, United Kingdom (1995)
• Postdoctoral training at the Department of Neurology, Ohio State University Medical Center

Research Focus: Professor Hillier's research centers on autism spectrum disorder and neurodiversity across the lifespan, with particular emphasis on transition periods from adolescence to adulthood. Her work examines various aspects of adult outcomes for neurodivergent individuals, including employment, college success, financial literacy, healthcare experiences, sexuality and gender identity, and intersectionality. She has developed and evaluated several program interventions including "Horizons" (a college preparation mentoring program for neurodivergent high schoolers), "Horizons Plus" (a college success program for neurodivergent college students), and "The Network" (a social networking group for neurodivergent adolescents and young adults).

Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on practical interventions and understanding the real-world challenges faced by autistic individuals in various settings. There's a clear trajectory toward examining financial literacy, healthcare experiences, and quality-of-life outcomes for autistic adults, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for support beyond childhood and adolescence.

Awards and Recognition:

• Best Oral Presentation Award (2017) from the British Psychological Society, Psychology of Sexualities Section
• Department of Psychology Teaching Excellence Award (2010) from University of Massachusetts Lowell
• International Scholar Award (2003) from Ohio State University

Research Funding and Projects: Professor Hillier has secured numerous grants to support her research on autism and neurodiversity. Her funded projects include "Fit and Fun: A Physical Activity and Relaxation Program," "Evaluation of an Interdisciplinary Music Intervention," "Aspirations: A Social and Vocational Support Group Program," and "A Web-Based Employment Training Program for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder." These projects reflect her commitment to developing practical, community-based interventions that address multiple aspects of life for neurodivergent individuals.

Research Centers and Teams: As Director of the Center for Neurodiversity Education, Support and Training (NEST), Professor Hillier leads initiatives focused on creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals in educational and community settings. She also coordinates the Interdisciplinary Minor in Disability Studies, fostering cross-disciplinary approaches to understanding disability and neurodiversity.