Secretary Landgraf at AUCD 2015 Conference
Secretary Landgraf joined individuals with disabilities, their parents and providers for a panel discussion on how to advance employment and post-secondary education for young people with disabilities at the state level as part of the annual conference of the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD).
During the Nov. 18 panel, Secretary Landgraf said transition work needs to begin as early as possible, and help to meet “the purpose and the promise” of the student and his or her family. The transition to employment or post-secondary education is crucial in breaking the cycle of poverty for so many individuals with disabilities, and she noted that many federal and state policies are coming into alignment on that front.
As for meeting expectations, Secretary Landgraf told the more than 300 people in attendance from across the country that it’s important for state officials to “listen and evolve with the person before you in order to fulfill their dreams.”
Joining on the panel were John Jr. and John III Bogasky. John III just got a job with the Smithsonian. “It’s a 10-year overnight success story,” his dad said. John III detailed the internships and part-time jobs he has had, leading up to this position. John Jr. said early education for parents is especially important in raising expectations and improving understanding about later success.
Josh is going to college with support from his mentor and case manager Andrew. “Andy is more than a mentor,” Josh said. “He is a friend.”
Ellie Carney just finished a position with an animal welfare group and expects to be hired. Her mom, Maedi Tanham Carney, said post-secondary programs are absolutely critical.
Stephanie Orlando, director of YOUTH POWER! at Families Together in Albany, N.Y., said her organization is seeing success with peers.
Learn more about AUCD, including UD’s Center for Disabilities Studies, at www.aucd.org
Secretary Landgraf at AUCD 2015 Conference
Secretary Landgraf joined individuals with disabilities, their parents and providers for a panel discussion on how to advance employment and post-secondary education for young people with disabilities at the state level as part of the annual conference of the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD).
During the Nov. 18 panel, Secretary Landgraf said transition work needs to begin as early as possible, and help to meet “the purpose and the promise” of the student and his or her family. The transition to employment or post-secondary education is crucial in breaking the cycle of poverty for so many individuals with disabilities, and she noted that many federal and state policies are coming into alignment on that front.
As for meeting expectations, Secretary Landgraf told the more than 300 people in attendance from across the country that it’s important for state officials to “listen and evolve with the person before you in order to fulfill their dreams.”
Joining on the panel were John Jr. and John III Bogasky. John III just got a job with the Smithsonian. “It’s a 10-year overnight success story,” his dad said. John III detailed the internships and part-time jobs he has had, leading up to this position. John Jr. said early education for parents is especially important in raising expectations and improving understanding about later success.
Josh is going to college with support from his mentor and case manager Andrew. “Andy is more than a mentor,” Josh said. “He is a friend.”
Ellie Carney just finished a position with an animal welfare group and expects to be hired. Her mom, Maedi Tanham Carney, said post-secondary programs are absolutely critical.
Stephanie Orlando, director of YOUTH POWER! at Families Together in Albany, N.Y., said her organization is seeing success with peers.
Learn more about AUCD, including UD’s Center for Disabilities Studies, at www.aucd.org