Aaryan Verma, recipient of the Henry Fenichel Award for Curiosity, was recognized for his leadership in advancing inclusion and opportunity for neurodiverse students. As a founding member of Spectrum Empowerment’s leadership team, Verma has helped develop innovative STEAM and sports programs while supporting autism research, mentorship, and advocacy efforts.
Aaryan reflects the qualities of a true advocate through his compassionate leadership, creative thinking, and steadfast dedication to fostering an inclusive community. Rather than simply recognizing challenges, he takes meaningful action to create environments where every individual feels seen, supported, and empowered. Through his work with Spectrum Empowerment’s Aaryan has spent the past three years helping build spaces where children on the autism spectrum feel supported, confident, and valued.
Through bi-monthly STEAM and sports programs, Aaryan works directly with students, guiding them through robotics challenges and collaborative activities with patience and care. He approaches each child as an individual, adapting to their needs and ensuring that every participant experiences success and belonging. Beyond his direct impact, he fosters a culture of kindness and inclusion among volunteers, quietly inspiring his peers to lead with the same compassion and intentionality.
Aaryan’s leadership extends to mentorship and excellence. As a coach of a FIRST LEGO Explorers team, he has guided young students to the World Championship level while continuing to support their growth into more advanced competition. At the same time, he is expanding access to these opportunities by helping launch a new Spectrum Empowerment chapter in Michigan, bringing inclusive programming to new communities.
His commitment to impact is further reflected in his academic pursuits. Through research in early autism detection using machine learning, Aaryan is leveraging innovation to better understand and support individuals on the spectrum. He brings together compassion and technology in a way that reflects both vision and purpose.
What defines Aaryan is not a single act, but a pattern of intentional leadership. He consistently chooses to include, to advocate, and to uplift others. Through his actions, he is not only changing individual lives, but shaping a more inclusive and compassionate future.
Cohen Family Upstander Month is generously supported by Duke Energy, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati Museum Center, and the Mayerson Family Foundation.
