Disclosure (was Prof's with Autism/AS)

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Hunting for work as a professor (pending defense), someone asked me if I had thought about the ramifications of disclosure. I asked why, since I did not mention my HFA diagnosis or anything else in my cover letters, etc. The faculty member pointed out that my CV has a lot of activities and speaking engagements related to autism.

So, now I'm wondering if it is something I should mention to an academic selection committee. They can't ask about disabilities, but they could ask why I am so involved in a particular cause / interest.

Would any current profs/ABDs mention the diagnosis? I can't exactly hide my physical limits, anyway.

It's hard to say. On the one hand, you don't want to appear standoffish. On the other hand, you don't want someone deciding they don't want to work with someone with a diagnosis. Frankly, if you have visually apparent disabilities unrelated to your diagnosis, it probably won't hurt. Anyone inclined to discriminate will already have ample excuse to do so. I'd suggest that you not make a big deal about it. If they ask, you can tell them why. I just wouldn't let it overshadow your work as an academic unless it relates directly to your research/teaching history. Good luck on the job hunt!

I must admit, the job hunt process is daunting for everyone. It does force one to refine any goals.