College Connections
DSL is dedicated to expanding and improving inclusive higher education options for individuals with Down syndrome. There are currently 4 local college opportunities and we are always looking for more. There are also national opportunities for those interested in going away to college.
Local College Programs
Ivy Tech University, Ivy Power
A local college in Indiana, Ivy Tech, has a new college curriculum for individuals with disabilities called Ivy Power. In Ivy Power, students will be fully included within classes and campus life. Participants will pick a focus based on their career goals, take classes, and complete an internship.
Students are matched with an academic mentor, who will assist them while on campus, and certificates will be awarded at the completion of the program.
University of Kentucky, College and Career Studies Program
This new College and Career Studies program, offered as part of the University of Kentucky Supported Higher Education Partnership (UK-SHEP), will provide students with intellectual disabilities a fully inclusive college experience. With chosen supports and person-centered planning, students will engage in all areas of campus life, from classes and clubs to social events and activities.
For more information about UK College and Career Studies Program, including how to apply, contact Erin Fitzgerald (Erin.Fitzgerald@uky.edu).
Bellarmine University
We are excited that two of our members will begin their college careers at Bellarmine in 2022!
Stay tuned for more information as our partnership with Bellarmine progresses! Program payment options include Scholarship funds or Private Pay.
Jefferson Community and Technical College
College Connections
At JCTC students enroll in both specialized courses that are designed and taught specifically for “College Connections” students, as well as mainstream courses of their choice. Upon completion of the courses, participants earn a certificate from JCTC. A new group of students begins each August/September. There is a cap of 6 students in each class.
- How to get started?
Contact SusanT@dsoflou.org to find out about the upcoming 2023 year.
Kentucky Supported Higher Education Partnership
KSHEP is a network of Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) across the state offering inclusive higher education programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, such as Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) programs.
CTPs support students with intellectual disabilities (ID) who want to continue academic or career and technical instruction at an IHE in order to better prepare for competitive integrated employment and independent living.
WKU SAV-Y Program
The WKU SAV-Y program provides eligible students with an intellectual disability the opportunity to enroll in WKU courses to acquire workplace skills and competencies while gaining academic knowledge in an inclusive environment.
Out-of-State College Opportunities
Think College
Think College provides resources, technical assistance, and training related to college options for students with intellectual disabilities, and manages the only national listing of college programs for students with intellectual disabilities in the United States.
You can also check out their one-of-kind directory to find other college opportunities across the country:
SEARCH COLLEGE PROGRAMS
College Scholarship Opportunities
Ruby’s Rainbow Scholarships
The goal and mission at Ruby’s Rainbow is to grant scholarships to adults with Down syndrome who are seeking post-secondary education, enrichment or vocational classes, helping them achieve their dreams of higher education while spreading awareness of their capabilities and general awesomeness.
Other Potential Scholarship Opportunities
There are many other scholarship opportunities for students with Down syndrome. Here are some scholarships you should check out:
AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability $999
Ethan Saylor Memorial Scholarship $500
Joe Hornsby III Scholarship $2,000
O’Neill Tabani Enrichment Fund $5,000
Ups for Downs Eric Martinez Memorial Scholarships $2,500 (Varies)
Ups for Downs Katie MacDonald Memorial Scholarship $2,500
WSAJ Past Presidents’ Scholarship $7,500
Find more Scholarship/Financial Aid Opportunities