315.443.​4058 taishoffcenter@syr.edu 300 Huntington Hall, Syracuse NY 13244

InclusiveU Transition Program

InclusiveU provides a specialized transition program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Costs are based on your path of entry into InclusiveU. No matter how you join us, InclusiveU allows you to participate in campus life, internships, social activities, and a college certificate with an individualized curriculum according to your interests.

Transition-Specific Planning Process

Every student receives direct instruction and support in the Students Transitioning to Adult Roles (STAR) Person-Centered Planning Process. Students receive advising that mirrors typical college advising.

Inclusive Coursework of 1-3 Classes Per Semester

All InclusiveU students who complete the Transition Program receive a certificate attesting to campus-based learning and career development experience, making the certificate meaningful to potential employers. Upon program completion, InclusiveU students participate in graduation ceremonies with the School of Education.

Extended Learning Opportunities

Students receive instruction in an individualized curriculum according to their Person-Centered Planning Process based on interests, needs, and goals. Instruction is on topics such as daily living and employability skills, team building, safety, technology, communication skills, health and wellness, or community navigation.

The program provides all necessary books and materials. All InclusiveU students have access to campus technology and receive integrated instruction on its use. InclusiveU students can receive access to an iPad or other technology if needed.

Integrated Employment Preparation

In your final year of InclusiveU, participate in the job-readiness program and learn valuable employment skills. If you would like to be considered for this one-year program and you are not a current InclusiveU student, please contact Coordinator Jennifer Quinn, jmquinn@syr.edu as we are accepting applications for the Internship & Employment program on a case-by-case basis.

Students learn pre-employment skills such as writing a resumé, job-hunting, cooperating with colleagues, and performing well in job interviews. A weekly employment seminar is open to all students.

Social Support

To foster academic, social, and personal growth for students with Intellectual and developmental disabilities, InclusiveU provides peer support through Peer2Peer, a program that brings together traditionally enrolled students and students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Students are included in on-campus events and activities according to their interests and goals. InclusiveU students have access to all parts of campus, including fitness and recreation centers. Program costs include a prorated “student activities fee” at Syracuse University in order to access campus clubs, organizations, activities, and special events. InclusiveU students also have access to free or discounted special events much like any other college student, such as basketball games, festivals, and recreational activities.

InclusiveU students receive direct instruction through integrated sessions on social skills and responsibilities of a college student.

Self-Determination Skill Development

InclusiveU students participate in instruction in a variety of self-management and adaptive skills, such as locating information, listening, teamwork, and applied technology. Students receive instruction in self-advocacy skills and opportunities to work with other students and community members on self-advocacy efforts. Students receive instruction on self-determination skills that will help them transition to more independent lives in the community after graduation.

Transition Support for Individuals and Families

InclusiveU offers integrated communication and trainings for parents and families throughout each student’s program at InclusiveU. InclusiveU Advisors work with an individual’s community support providers (MSC, Broker, FI, Community Habilitation, etc.) to maximize transition success.

Mentor Support

  • Peer2Peer: Social, recreational, and personal skills support is available through Peer2Peer, a voluntary program that matches matriculated Syracuse University students with non-matriculated InclusiveU students.
  • Campus Mentors: The Taishoff Center is able to coordinate mentoring and assistance during class and throughout campus. Here are some popular options:
    • InclusiveU Campus Mentor Service: This is an additional service provided directly through InclusiveU. We hire, train, and manage a team of Syracuse University students and professional staff to provide support for our students. More details on associated costs can be found on our Cost & Aid page.
    • If you are a student utilizing an NYS Self-Direction budget, you can also hire a mentor through our community partner, the Kelberman Center. Kelberman Center hires Syracuse University students as campus mentors. Details can be found here.
    • Other students prefer to bring their own support through campus. This might be a current Community Habilitation worker or a family friend. If you are considering this option, please be sure to let us know.

Please reach out to Sam Roux if you have questions or to further discuss your options.

  • Residential Mentors: InclusiveU students who live on campus are eligible for our Residential Mentor service. Residential Mentors (RMs) are Syracuse University students who are hired to be roommates or neighbors of InclusiveU students and act as a specialized peer support. RM’s help students organize their daily schedule, attend social activities and assist in maintaining a safe living environment.

Our students use a combination of mentor support options according to their support needs and schedule, we will work with you to select the best fit. All mentors are provided a training by InclusiveU staff and are expected to follow the guidelines of the University and InclusiveU.