Student with autism rallies for change
He wants to take part with classmates in UVic convocation ceremonies
A University of Victoria student with autism is pushing for a policy change that would allow him to take part in convocation ceremonies with his classmates.
Nathan Bodie, 32, is part of the STEPS Forward program, part of the B.C. Initiative for Inclusive Post-secondary Education, which helps people with developmental disabilities access postsecondary education.
“Ever since I left high school, I wanted to go to university,” Bodie said.
“It took us over 10 years to find the right program for me to take. And now I’ve found it.”
Bodie has spent the past five years studying political science and social justice. In November, he learned the university’s policy prevents him from taking part in the ceremony because his courses don’t count for credit.
Seven other post-secondary institutions take part in the program, but UVic is the only one that prevents students from graduating with their classmates.
Julia Templeman, a second-year UVic student and close family friend, launched a petition in support of Bodie. By Friday, it had more than 4,000 signatures.
Bodie, who would like to work for a non-profit organization as an advocate for people with developmental disabilities, said he’s overwhelmed by the response.
“It’s been spectacular, just seeing the support on campus,” he said.
UVic said in a statement that it has been working to find a way for STEPS Forward students to received their certificates at the June convocation ceremony.
“On March 20, the convocation committee forwarded a recommendation to senate that this proposal be adopted,” the statement said.
If the proposal is approved by the university senate on April 7, Bodie can take part in the ceremony.
“This campaign we’ve been involved in to have this policy change, I’m thrilled that it puts a spotlight on STEPS Forward because it’s such a spectacular program,” said Nancy Bodie, Nathan’s mom.
“He doesn’t see this as being about him, but changing the policy for all the other students.”
UVic has five students in the STEPS Forward program, which has been running since 2004.
Nancy Bodie said her son’s confidence has soared since he has been in the program and he’s taken on more public advocacy work, such as speaking out against increases to bus fares last year at a rally in front of the legislature.