Lee University has received a grant from the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging (DDA) to support the development of a new inclusive postsecondary education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
 
The one-year planning grant, funded through the state’s TN Believes initiative, will provide support as Lee develops a comprehensive postsecondary program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) transitioning from high school into higher education. The program is designed to promote academic growth, career readiness, independent living, and social engagement.
 
“Inclusive higher education programs bring tremendous value to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and enrich college campuses to the benefit of all students,” said DDA Commissioner Brad Turner. “I couldn’t be more thrilled for Lee University to use the Tennessee Believes grant to provide a Christ-centered educational opportunity for Tennesseans with disabilities. Through this new program, I know we can all expect something great.”
 
The initiative originated through the work of Dr. Paige Rapson, assistant professor of special education in Lee University’s Helen DeVos College of Education (HDCOE), who began exploring opportunities to expand support services for students with disabilities after recognizing a growing need among families and prospective students in the region.
 
“There have been numerous inquiries from parents and interested families asking whether programs like this exist at Lee,” said Rapson. “We believe students with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve access to a meaningful college experience that prepares them for employment, independence, self-advocacy, and community involvement. This planning year gives us the opportunity to build that program intentionally and thoughtfully.”
 
Rapson collaborated with Dr. Erin Hattabaugh, director of grants for the university, to prepare the proposal alongside a committee that includes Dr. Debbie Murray; provost for Lee; Dr. Kimberly Moffet, associate professor of special education; Dr. LaJuan Bradford, director of academic support; and Dr. Alex Sandoval, chair of the HDCOE.
 
The proposed program will serve an initial cohort of 12 students annually, providing a structured college experience for young adults with I/DD as they transition from high school into higher education, employment, and independent living. Students will participate in workshops and courses focused on communication, organization, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal development while also auditing academic courses aligned with their interests.
 
The initiative will also emphasize community partnerships and workplace learning opportunities through collaborations with local businesses, professionals, families, and campus organizations.
 
“Lee University has long been committed to serving students holistically and preparing them to thrive personally and professionally,” said Murray. “This initiative reflects that commitment by expanding opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience meaningful participation in campus life while developing the academic, social, and professional skills needed for future success. We are grateful for the support that will allow us to develop this program.”
 
Planning for the program will begin July 1 and continue throughout the year as the university develops policies, training models, admissions procedures, and support systems aligned with national best practices and Think College accreditation standards for higher education programs serving students with intellectual disabilities.
 
According to university leaders, the planning year is essential to ensuring the program is developed with intentionality, accountability, and long-term sustainability.
 
The grant competition drew significant statewide interest. Lee’s proposal was ultimately awarded full first-year funding, totaling $97,499.
 
The university plans to collaborate closely with Transition Tennessee and Think College resources throughout the planning process to establish a high-quality, fully integrated program model that supports student success academically, socially, and professionally.
 
The Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging oversees services and support for Tennesseans with disabilities across the state. Formed in 2024 through the merger of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disabilities, the department provides a wide range of programs and resources that promote independence, community engagement, employment, and quality of life for individuals and families.
 
For more information about Lee University’s Helen DeVos College of Education, visit leeuniversity.edu/academics/education.