IN Colorado Initiative for Inclusive Higher Education

In supports the development of Inclusive Higher Education pathways for students with intellectual disability. There are four pathways at acc, unc, uccs and regis with over 90 students enrolled focused on 4 areas: academic growth, social development, independence, and career advancement. To date, 44 students have graduated earning a comprehensive Higher Education certificate with a focus In a variety of fields such as healthcare, early childhood Education, and advocacy. Legislation passed In 2022, led by In, allowed In to develop a grant program for colleges to apply for the funds needed to establish Inclusive Higher Education programs. This year, csu and msu denver were awarded funds to establish new programs In fall of 2024. This expansion doubles the number of options from just 2 years ago.

In oversees and leads the Colorado Inclusive Higher Education consortium. The group is made up of key stakeholders who are working to promote Inclusive college access In Colorado. This group meets to share progress and continue to develop best practices, work towards accreditation standards, conduct program evaluation and onboard new colleges and universities looking to establish Inclusive Higher Education themselves. With the graduate number increasing, an evaluation of graduates was completed and showed an 84% employment rate along with 88% of responses agreeing that their Inclusive Higher Education program prepared them for employment. Along with employment rates, the survey showed positive outcomes associated with increased socialization and independent living.

The Education and outreach program focuses on collaborations with prospective students, families, k-12 educators and community partners to redefine expectations for students with intellectual disability (id) and break down stereotypes that students with id cannot attend college. The program works to raise awareness that college is possible for students with id, highlighting the options now available In Colorado. The program puts an emphasis on informing about the college programs In Colorado and what the needed steps are to prepare for college, including early inclusion, academic preparation, self-advocacy, and social independence. 2023 was a record year for outreach. In reached 31 counties across Colorado, 461 educators and 2,538 student and family members.