The following article was written by Jessica Giorgio, Director of Post-Secondary Programs
Students from across all five Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program (MRHEP) campuses participated in this year’s CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the CUNY Graduate Center. This year’s theme was all about celebrating Neurodivergent Joy: Reimaging Learning, Belonging & Success.
Inclusion in the Classroom & Beyond
Not only did several MRHEP students attend, but 10 students paneled on two very important discussions. The first session titled “Inclusion of CUNY Unlimited Students (with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) in the Classroom & Beyond!” In this session, students co-presented alongside Dr. Sue Carpenter, Associate Professor at Kingsborough Community College (KCC), and Professor Angela Polite, lecturer at Borough of Manhattan Community College. In this engaging session, Malik Hooks (MRHEP, BMCC), Ryan Ford (MRHEP, College of Staten Island), Chevonna Wright (MRHEP, Hostos Community College), Alijha Hill (MRHEP, Hostos), Ricardo Montanez (MRHEP, Kingsborough Community College), Michael Lettman (MHREP, KCC alum), and Paul Anthony Urbanek (MRHEP, Queens Community College) shared their college experiences: their successes, challenges, and perseverance through navigating student life.
“I got to meet people who are like me. It made feel I’m not alone, and for that I’m grateful.”
– Paul Urbanek (MRHEP, QCC)
Journey to Your North Star
“It was a special opportunity to speak about my experience in the MRHEP at Kingsborough Community College because it shows people who I truly am.”
– Eric Nagler (MRHEP, KCC)
Students Express Appreciation for Inclusion
Both sessions were attended at max capacity. In addition to supporting the MRHEP presenters, student attendees were able to learn and network with others that are part of the movement of inclusive learning in higher education.
“The Neurodiversity conference was a moment for me to share my experience and hear others,” said Alihja Hill, a student of MRHEP’s Hostos campus. “My advice to other people is don’t let what you have limit what you have to offer to the world.“
The program looks forward to participating again in next year’s CUNY Neurodiversity Conference!
