by Angela Chan, TPSID Grant Coordinator, Individualized Supports
In October 2018, students and alumni from AHRC New York City’s Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program (MHREP) led two presentations at the Student Leadership Conference (SLC) hosted at Syracuse University. The SLC is an offshoot of the State of the Art Conference on Postsecondary Education and Individuals with Developmental Disabilities, which brings together educators, researchers, program staff, families, and self-advocates to share knowledge, explore best practices, and build connections across the field.
Creativity and Self-Expression
In the first presentation, Sam Wilkinson, Joseph Limery, and Charles Kleiman from the first graduating class of the MHREP at the Borough of Manhattan Community College led a session titled “Creativity Works: How Being Involved in Art Classes Enhance Your Experience as a Student.” They shared how participation in the arts strengthened their confidence, reduced stress, and helped them connect with peers who share creative interests.
Through photographs and interactive activities, including a theater warm-up exercise and a collaborative art project, the presenters invited the audience to experience the impact of creative expression firsthand. They also discussed the academic challenges of art courses and explored potential career pathways in the arts after graduation.
Lobbying 101
The second presentation, “Lobbying 101: A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Making Your Voice Heard,” focused on civic engagement and advocacy. The panel was moderated by Kristen Thatcher, a graduate of the MHREP at the College of Staten Island. She was joined by David Olenick, Danielle Levine, and Jacob Garrity, representing students and alumni from the MHREPs at Hostos Community College, Kingsborough Community College, and the Borough of Manhattan Community College, respectively.
The panelists outlined three essential questions to address when meeting with legislators:
- What is my story?
- What issue am I here to talk about today and what is its effect?
- What action do I want the legislator to take?
Drawing from their own experiences, the presenters described how attending college helped them build confidence, explore new opportunities, and become active participants in their communities. They also shared firsthand accounts of advocating in Albany, offering practical insight into how students can begin engaging with lawmakers and raising awareness about issues that matter to them.
Inspiring Future Advocates
Both presentations were well received, with attendees actively participating and asking questions throughout. Many students were unfamiliar with lobbying and the role of legislators, making the session especially impactful. The discussion encouraged students to see advocacy as accessible and achievable.
Student Vivica Black from Highland Community College in Seattle, Washington, reflected on the experience, saying, “I thought the last presentation was very informational for students with disabilities because some students with disabilities, they don’t know the services that they have. They don’t know their voice and they get left out in the dark. And it was really [comforting] having students stand up for their rights and for their needs.”
Throughout their presentations, MHREP students and alumni demonstrated the power of self-expression and self-advocacy, encouraging others to take an active role in shaping their communities and futures.
