Invite Jon
Keith Evans to Speak
Jon Keith Evans shares his journey of a late autism diagnosis with honesty,
insight, and inspiration. He is available to speak at:
Colleges & Universities
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Colleges & Universities
Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer
Colleges & Universities
Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer
Colleges & Universities
Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer
Book Jon Keith Evans for Your Next Event
Jon Keith Evans brings over two decades of lived experience with undiagnosed autism to his speaking engagements. His presentations combine personal narrative with practical insights about late diagnosis, workplace accommodation, and the challenges of navigating systems designed without neurodiversity in mind.
Drawing from his career in technical communications, Jon delivers information with clarity and precision. His presentations aren’t inspirational speeches about overcoming obstacles—they’re honest accounts of what it means to live with an invisible disability in educational and professional settings.
Available Presentation Topics
Late Autism Diagnosis: Living 47 Years Without Answers
Jon discusses the process of discovering his autism spectrum disorder at age 47, after decades of unexplained struggles in school and workplace settings. This presentation covers:
- Early signs that went unrecognized in the 1960s and 70s
- The long search for explanations through multiple medical and psychological evaluations
- The relief and challenges that came with finally receiving a diagnosis
- Practical implications of late diagnosis for employment and daily life
- Why autism in adults often looks different than childhood presentations
Ideal for: Medical and mental health conferences, autism awareness events, adult diagnostic clinics, support groups for late-diagnosed individuals
The Glass Monolith: Invisible Disabilities in the Workplace
This presentation examines Jon’s career trajectory from telephone operator to technical writer, highlighting how undiagnosed autism affected job performance and workplace relationships. Topics include:
- When technical excellence isn’t enough: the role of social dynamics in professional success
- The “logic error” concept: how autistic thinking patterns differ from neurotypical expectations
- Workplace accommodations that could have prevented job losses
- The intersection of race and disability in professional settings
- What employers need to know about hiring and retaining neurodiverse workers
Ideal for: HR conferences, diversity and inclusion training, corporate leadership development, vocational rehabilitation professionals
From Eight Universities to No Career: Education's Autism Blindspot
Jon’s academic journey spanned 8½ years across four universities despite starting college with 21 credits already earned. This presentation explores:
- How high academic potential can mask underlying disabilities
- The difference between intelligence and information processing ability
- Why standard accommodations don’t always address autistic students’ needs
- The long-term career impact of graduating without proper support
- Early warning signs educators should recognize
Ideal for: Academic conferences, disability services offices, K-12 educator training, college student services departments, parent organizations
The Disability Benefits Process: What Worked After Three Denials
After three rejections, Jon’s fourth application for Social Security Disability succeeded. This practical presentation covers:
- Common reasons initial applications fail
- The importance of proper medical documentation
- Working with vocational experts and medical specialists
- Preparing for administrative hearings
- What changed between denial and approval
Ideal for: Disability advocacy organizations, legal aid societies, social work conferences, autism support organizations, benefits counseling programs
Music as Structure: How Smooth Jazz Provided Comfort and Routine
Beyond autism, Jon discusses his lifelong connection to music—particularly smooth jazz—and its role in providing structure during difficult periods. This presentation examines:
- Why autistic individuals often form intense connections with specific music genres
- The role of routine and predictability in managing stress
- How music criticism combines special interests with analytical thinking
- The intersection of autism and creative pursuits
Ideal for: Music therapy conferences, arts and autism programs, cultural events, jazz appreciation societies
Presentation Formats
Jon offers several formats to meet your event’s needs:
Keynote Address (45-60 minutes)
A comprehensive presentation on one topic, followed by Q&A. Suitable for opening or closing conference sessions.
Workshop Session (90-120 minutes)
An in-depth exploration including interactive elements, case studies, and extended discussion time.
Panel Participation
Jon is available to join panel discussions on autism, disability employment, technical writing, or related topics.
Continuing Education Programs
Presentations can be tailored to meet continuing education requirements for medical professionals, counselors, educators, or HR professionals.
What Audiences Say
contact
Contact Jon through the inquiry form below or email directly at contact@jonkevans.com.
Why Book Jon?
Jon speaks from lived experience, 47 years of navigating systems that weren’t designed for people like him. His presentations offer audiences something research papers and clinical descriptions can’t: the day-to-day reality of living with an invisible disability.
If your organization needs honest, practical insight into autism in adults, workplace neurodiversity, or the disability benefits system, Jon’s presentations deliver information your audience can actually use.