Temple Grandin visits George Mason University

by Camille Rimbawa and Marissa Joyce

On January 29, the George Mason community welcomed Dr. Temple Grandin for a series of talks and Q&A sessions. With support from the Department of Psychology, she was brought in by Students in Neuroscience—a student organization—as part of their speaker series. Grandin is a renowned author, animal scientist, and autism advocate who champions the humane treatment of animal livestock. Diagnosed with autism at an early age, she stands as an autism self-advocate and has previously noted how her autism advances her ability to understand and empathize with animals. 

George Mason students, faculty, alumni, and community members gathered in Merten Hall on the Fairfax Campus to witness Grandin’s work as she presented talks and answered audience questions throughout the day. Questions ranged from her research, personal aspirations, career journey, and her advice for autistic individuals, especially children and adults facing challenges in school and higher education.

Not only did Grandin have two presentations but she spent multiple hours speaking to individuals and small groups of people who wished to speak with her. Ashir Bhatti, a neuroscience student and member of Students in Neuroscience is currently conducting research focused on the ethical use of ejiao (donkey collagen) in Chinese skincare products. He said he appreciated the opportunity to discuss his research with Grandin.

“We [asked] Dr. Grandin to come and speak because we recognize the benefits of her interdisciplinary knowledge and how it could benefit those studying neuroscience, psychology and beyond,” he said.

“It was a great day," said Tim Curby, Chair of the Department of Psychology. "Hearing Dr. Grandin speak in-person about her research on both animal behavior and autism, while also taking the time to our questions, served as an encouragement personally and professionally for all of us who were there.”