STATEMENT OF GOALS
As a member-at-large I would like to contribute to the overall strategic goals of the organization focusing on the following:
- Mentor and support systems for new teachers as they learn how to advocate for equal rights and access for students. Advocacy is generally not a skill preservice teacher are taught.
- Collaborate with other disability support organizations in advocating for equal rights and access through state and federal policy
- Support national and international collaborations to benefit individuals with IDD
- Connect researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and organizations necessary for effective advocacy, policy, and practice
- Promote inclusive education and employment
- Promote the awareness and impact of post-secondary education
BRIEF BIOGRAPHY:
Current Position:
Executive Director (2010- present), REACH Program at the College of Charleston
Previous Position:
Special Education Teacher: Nationally Board Certified (1990-2010)
Education:
BS - Special Education, College of Charleston 1990
AAIDD Participation:
Executive Committee Member, AAIDD South Carolina Chapter (SCAAIDD)
Activities/Awards:
- LeadLearnLive Advisory Board Member
- Southeastern Post-Secondary Education Alliance (SEPSEA) Founding Member
- South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation: Team Berkeley Auxiliary Team Member
- TedXCharleston Talk on post-secondary education for students with intellectual disabilities
- Mayor proclaims Dec 3 Edie Cusack Day in the City of Charleston for dedication to the field of disability
- Proclamation of Lifetime Achievement from Governor of SC
- ExCEL Award (Administrator of the Year) - Nominated
- ExCEL Award (Alexander Sanders Legacy for Outstanding Public Service) - Nominated
- ExCEL Award (Presidential Legacy Humanitarian Award)- Nominated
- Teacher of the Year Honor Roll Teacher
- Buddy Walk Outstanding Educator Award
- National Board Candidate Coach
- Grant Writer
- Online instructional videos related to the levels and dynamics of students in special
- Education, forum of students with IDD and without discussing the experience of being part of inclusive education, Universal Design of Learning in the classroom, etc.