Niagara University Levesque Institute Hosts Inclusive College and Career Readiness Camp

Niagara University's Levesque Institute for Civic Engagement hosted Inclusive NU, a one-week college and career readiness summer camp for Niagara Falls High School students in special education programs July 22-26, 2024.

Twenty-five students participated in the first-time camp, building a foundation to successfully navigate the transition from high school to meaningful careers or post-secondary education. Through a variety of structured lessons and activities, the campers gained essential skills that will help them identify their career interests, obtain meaningful employment as independently as possible, and advocate for themselves as they pursue their academic and/or employment goals.

"There is a critical gap in education and support for high school students with disabilities to adequately prepare them to transition into independence," said Rhonda Bivins-Talley, executive director of the Levesque Institute. "Our goal is to provide tailored guidance, resources, and essential skills to succeed in post-secondary education and the workforce while fostering their independence and self-confidence."

Throughout the week, the students developed individualized portfolios showcasing their unique abilities, achievements, and college experiences, which included a visit to the university's Castellani Art Museum's "Daredevils of Niagara Falls" exhibit, where they climbed into a 3-D backdrop of a barrel going over the Falls for a perfect photo opportunity.

The fun continued in the lab at the Golisano Center for Integrated Sciences, where students explored various insect environments and discovered the significant contributions these insects make to the ecosystem. This hands-on experience not only enhanced their understanding of biology, but also highlighted the importance of insects in maintaining ecological balance. During this engaging exercise, Andrea Gray, executive director of the United Way of Greater Niagara, visited the students as they learned to study insects under a microscope with guidance from biology professor Dr. Mark Gallo.

The campers also learned more about what to do and how to interact with first responders during emergencies and audited an American Sign Language course with peers from Niagara Falls High School who participate in the Early College Smart Scholars college and career readiness program.

Niagara Falls High School special education teacher Nicole Sheehan praised the initiative.

"(The students) were provided opportunities to succeed alongside their peers in a college setting," she said. "This program was a great opportunity to prepare all of our students for life in a diverse society."

Parents were invited to the university for a BBQ lunch and advocacy workshops with representatives from Empower and Person Center Services to learn about the resources available to help them support their children.

This initiative, which was funded by the Martha Beeman Foundation, aims to improve long-term positive outcomes for students with disabilities, including higher rates of college enrollment, credits earned, pre-entry micro-credential attainment, employment, and supported living.

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