You could say that IP&O has been a partner of the Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services (RCAAS) since its inception. From our Planning, Development, and Design group’s thoughtful and thorough design process of the RCAAS’ groundbreaking center, to our Project Services construction oversight, our hiring of Neurodiverse adults in various departments, enriching the relationship between the Neurodiverse community and our Police, and even assisting with communications and marketing needs, IP&O is in it for the long run and committed to helping our Neurodiverse population excel, and in doing so, providing a blueprint for others to follow.

It is no surprise, then, that IP&O was well-represented at the Fourth Annual Rutgers Neurodiversity Summit held on October 21 at the College Avenue Student Center.
Henry X. Velez, IP&O’s Vice President of Business Services, was the recipient of the inaugural Rutgers Neurodiversity Advocacy Award. Velez is a part of the Rutgers Neurodiverse task force and has been very instrumental in hiring Neurodiverse individuals in Mail Services, Records Retention, Rutgers Cinema, and the Rutgers Golf Course.

When presenting Velez with the award, Dr. Christopher Manente, Founding Executive Director, Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services, and Associate Professor of Clinical Practice, Department of Applied Psychology, said that Velez has been very instrumental in hiring neurodivergent individuals, “And it has not always gone perfectly,” he emphasized. “Henry has always been understanding, compassionate, supportive, and has helped us work through any struggle or barrier that we’ve encountered.”

Velez said, “This is not just me, it is the hard work of my team. Everyone in IP&O is extremely supportive. We want nothing but the best for the Rutgers community. This university is so much better off today because of the great work of Chris and his team. The support Chris and his team give to the Neurodiverse community and the families is something like none across the country. I am proud to be a part of this.”

In the afternoon, Sgt. Marlise Correa, RUPD, presented “Neurodiversity and Safety: How Police and Community Can Work Together,” further demonstrating IP&O’s continued key partnership and joint commitment to ensuring that Rutgers is an inclusive, secure, and welcoming place.

IP&O’s Employee Services Team tabled at the Resource Fair. They are very instrumental in facilitating the hiring of Neurodiverse individuals. IP&O continually looks for hiring opportunities and partnerships with the RCAAS. 

Featured in the IP&O Newsletter, December 2025