On April 26th, 2017, Beyond Academics will host the Beyond Limits Gala at the UNCG Alumni House.
The gala celebrates the launch of a scholarship campaign for UNCG’s Beyond Academics program and also marks the tenth anniversary for this innovative, award-winning transition program for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Beyond Academics is North Carolina’s first and only four-year certificate program for individuals with intellectual disabilities and is one of only a few four-year programs in the entire country. The fully inclusive academic and residential experience makes it possible for young adults with intellectual disabilities to attend college, to expand their ability to live independently, to obtain a career of their choice, and to craft a meaningful life in the community of their choice.
The program has rapidly become a leader in the post-secondary education national movement, supporting others in creating similar opportunities in their own communities. At home at UNCG, the program of study has raised understanding of the benefits all kinds of diversity can bring to a campus community.
The event’s keynote speakers are Rud and Ann Turnbull. For over four decades, Rud and Ann have been professors, researchers, and advocates for individuals with disabilities, their families, and their service providers. The Turnbulls have authored over 40 books. In 1999, they were selected by the National Historic Preservation Trust on Developmental Disabilities as two of 36 individuals who have “changed the course of history for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the 20th century.”
The Turnbulls say their greatest education came from their son Jay Turnbull (1967-2009). They called Jay their “best professor” on the needs of individuals with significant disabilities over the lifespan.
Without financial aid, the Beyond Academics program would not be available to many students. The scholarship campaign launched by the Beyond Limits Gala seeks to raise $1.5 million and aims to make Beyond Academics’ transformative experience possible for more students.
The evening will also honor the founders of Beyond Academics and will include dinner and the sharing of perspectives from students, family members, UNCG staff, and board representatives.
To purchase tickets and learn about sponsorships, please go to https://beyondacademics.uncg.edu/gala or call Ms. Debbie Freund at 336.256.0426.
The gala takes place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Virginia Dare Room.
Please register by April 12th.
