Project Name
Terps-EXCEED
Inclusive Higher Education Program for Students with Intellectual Disabilities
Type of practice
Promising practice (practice is proven to achieve outcomes)
Area(s) of Emphasis
Employment
Formal and informal community supports
Project/activity year
2021
Population of focus
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Strategies used
Interagency Collaboration and Coordination
Barrier Elimination, Systems Design, and Redesign
Project description
The Council awarded a grant to the University of Maryland Center for Transition and Career Innovation (CTCI) to create “Terps-EXCEED.” Terps-EXCEED is an inclusive higher education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The program provides students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate in college campus life, with coursework, accommodations, and mentors that promote inclusion.
Impact (or impact-to-date) of the project/activity for people with ID/DD and their families
Once fully established, the program can apply to be a Comprehensive Transition Program, allowing students to apply for federal financial aid, with this funding from the Council, we can expand inclusive higher education programming and become a model for the state in serving students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which helps to ensure college and career access for all.
Story
Story perspective
Partner [person or organization with an interest or concern about ID/DD issues]
Other
What were things like BEFORE you/your family/partner/community participated in the project/activity?
Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the lowest rates of both competitive employment and college enrollment compared to all other disability groups.
What are things like AFTER you/family/partner/community participated in the project/activity?
Students with intellectual disabilities who complete an inclusive postsecondary program achieve better employment outcomes, expand peer and social networks and increase independence.
What was most beneficial to you/family/partner/community from participating in this project or practice?
Jennifer King Rice, dean of the College of Education states that funding from the Council enabled us to expand inclusive higher education programming and become a model for the state in serving students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which helps to ensure college and career access for all.
Summary statement that highlights the role of the DD Council in achieving positive outcomes through this project.
The Council’s swift action leveraged $552,500 funding from the University of Maryland that will provide a significant return on investment for years to come. Ultimately, the program is designed for students to leave the program with an expanded social network of friends, colleagues and mentors, a meaningful credential, and better options for lifelong careers. Terps-EXCEED is providing a person-centered approach to inclusive postsecondary education and a diverse array of academic and nonacademic courses, career development, and activities.
Contact Information
Name
Rachel London
Email
rachell@md-council.org
Council location
Maryland