Center on Disability Studies (CDS)

Mission
The mission of the CDS is to promote diverse abilities across the lifespan through interdisciplinary training, research, and service.

Goals:
In collaboration with the Community Advisory Council (CAC) and other stakeholders, the CDS has identified three goals:
• Education and Early Intervention: Increase the capacity of professionals and parents to guide children and youth with disabilities to have successful, goal-oriented experiences.
• Employment: Increase the capacity of family members and advocates, professionals, and employers to assist young people with developmental/intellectual disabilities to achieve postsecondary education and/or employment in integrated settings at a competitive wage.
• Community Living: Provide individuals with significant disabilities the opportunity to live in the community and strengthen their self-confidence/self-determination, well-being, and independence.