Lee University receives grant from Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging

Lee University has received a grant in the amount of $97,499 from the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging that will assist with the development of a new postsecondary education program that is designed to be inclusive for students who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. The one-year planning grant will allow the university to create a structured college experience for individuals to transition from a high school setting to a college environment.

According to an article on Lee University's website, Dr. Paige Rapson, an assistant professor of special education in the Helen DeVos College of Education, was quoted as saying of the project, “There have been numerous inquiries from parents and interested families asking whether programs like this exist at Lee. We believe students with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve access to a meaningful college experience that prepares them for employment, independence, self-advocacy, and community involvement. This planning year gives us the opportunity to build that program intentionally and thoughtfully.”

Dr. Rapson helped initiate the idea for the new program alongside Dr. Erin Hattabaugh, director of grants for the university; provost Dr. Debbie Murray; Dr. Kimberly Moffet, associate professor of special education; Dr. LaJuan Bradford, director of academic support; and Dr. Alex Sandoval, chair of the College of Education. Planning for the new program will begin on July 1 and will run for one year.

The program will seek to support students with disabilities navigate academic growth, career readiness, independent living, and social engagement in a college environment. It is expected that a cohort of 12 students each year will go through the program, which will provide them with workshops, courses that focus on communication, organization, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal development, and the opportunity to audit courses that align with their personal interests.

Murray said, “Lee University has long been committed to serving students holistically and preparing them to thrive personally and professionally. This initiative reflects that commitment by expanding opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience meaningful participation in campus life while developing the academic, social, and professional skills needed for future success. We are grateful for the support that will allow us to develop this program.”

Brad Turner, the commissioner of the DDA, said, “Inclusive higher education programs bring tremendous value to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and enrich college campuses to the benefit of all students. I couldn’t be more thrilled for Lee University to use the Tennessee Believes grant to provide a Christ-centered educational opportunity for Tennesseans with disabilities. Through this new program, I know we can all expect something great.”

For more information about Lee University, visit the school’s website.