Ely Public Service Experience Fund

Current data suggests that neurodiverse individuals, including those on the autism spectrum, are underrepresented in public service careers. A contributing factor is the limited availability of work-study programs that provide practical experience in these fields. According to the U.S. Department of Labor and organizations like the Autism Society, adults with autism face higher rates of unemployment and underemployment than individuals with other disabilities.

In response, Dr. Macel and Jamie Ely established the Ely Public Service Experience Fund. This endowment is designed to support students on the autism spectrum by providing access to immersive internship opportunities with the University of Tennessee’s Institute for Public Service (IPS). IPS offers a dynamic environment to cultivate future public service leaders, ensuring access to both serve and be served in our communities.

Endowment Fundraising Goal: $125,000

$125,000 in gifts would generate investment income to support one full-time (40-hour) or two part-time (20-hour) public service career exploration opportunities, up to ten weeks of paid experience per year.

Contact IPS to learn how to support the fund or visit giving.tennessee.edu/ely.