Jordyn, standing in a busy classroom, embraced in a hug by students.

About Jordyn

As a nonspeaking autistic person who was denied access to effective augmentative communication until she was 18, Jordyn Zimmerman has personal experience challenging the educational status quo, which is featured in the 2021 documentary, This Is Not About Me.

Technology helped open Jordyn's world and she began advocating for students through a series of presentations. Since then, she has thrived on challenging what is possible in learning spaces and broader communities. Jordyn has keynoted and presented at conferences around the world, is Board Chair of CommunicationFIRST, works at The Nora Project, and has been featured by prominent media outlets on an international level. In 2022, Jordyn was appointed to serve on the President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.

An avid advocate for all students, Jordyn is passionate and determined to make a difference in the world of education — making sure every student is able to access effective communication and exercise their right to a truly inclusive education. Jordyn earned her bachelors degree in Education Policy from Ohio University and her Masters of Education at Boston College.

Testimonials

What People Are Saying

"Jordyn informed and challenged the practice of over 1000 staff within our district. A year later and the teachers still come to me talking about her takeaways when constructing lessons and brainstorming ideas."

-High School Principal, Houston, TX

"THANK YOU for sharing your story with us today. You have made an impact on hundreds of teachers."

-Joy Kirr, IL

Educator and author

"Jordyn's keynote touched the hearts and minds of educators from all over the world. The powerful combination of visuals and clear writing made for a very compelling presentation. Jordyn's lessons are a must for all educators. We need people like Jordyn who can change the world!"

-Alan November, Marblehead, MA

International leader in education technology, author, and host of the Building Learning Communities Conference

"I can articulate the "why" better, thanks to Jordyn. Jordyn's openness in sharing her school experience without robust communication gave us the confidence to start high tech AAC with our daughter at age 2. A year later, it has changed our whole lives."

-Cass B., Mukilteo, WA

Parent of an AAC user

"I was a part of the NPS team that had the privilege of meeting with Jordyn. It left me with many things to think about and the inspiration to work harder for my students. Within five minutes, I already felt it was the best use of my professional development time in 15 years of teaching."

-Kathleen C., Newton, MA

Teacher of the Visually Impaired, Newton Public Schools

Jordyn, a white woman with brown hair, laughing. She is wearing a green shirt with ruffled sleeves, jeans, and cheetah print flats.