Transition Conference presents pathways
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
Photos by Alexandra Butler, photographer/photo editor, unless otherwise noted
Envisioning their lives after high school, special education students in grades 10-12 attended the annual Transition Conference, hosted recently by Pennsylvania College of Technology and BLaST Intermediate Unit 17.
“The transition conference was an exciting opportunity for students with disabilities who are exploring services, resources, and opportunities for their transition after high school,” said Dawn M. Dickey, director of disability and access resources at Penn College. “The conference had 31 different breakout sessions to choose from and 26 vendors in which participants were able to engage with community organizations.”
The Transition Conference presented sessions in three potential pathways for students: postsecondary education and training, employment, and community engagement.
The conference’s keynote speaker was Kerry Magro, an award-winning autistic professional speaker, best-selling author and autism consultant to the HBO series “Mrs. Fletcher” and the latest season of Netflix’s Emmy-award winning series, “Love on the Spectrum U.S.”
The event attracted more than 340 registrants from 19 area school districts in Bradford, Clinton, Lycoming, Sullivan and Tioga counties. Also attending the event were students’ parents and guardians, as well as other interested individuals.
“With October being National Disability Employment Awareness Month, BLaST IU 17 is honored to continue the collaboration with the Pennsylvania College of Technology to bring our annual Transition Conference to students with special needs in the region,” said Jeffrey D. Pelly, educational consultant at BLaST IU 17. “Ensuring all students go on to lead fruitful lives after graduating from high school is essential. Many of our youth will be entering the workforce and this event allows them to broaden their knowledge of the opportunities available in the community that will lead to competitive integrated employment.”
Sponsors for the Transition Conference were PPL; Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak; and The Kline Family.
During his visit to Williamsport, Magro also addressed the community at a “Lunch & Learn,” held at the James V. Brown Library. The speaker shared his journey, challenges and successes. The event offered a range of information on advocacy and support and provided opportunities for connection among audience participants, including members of the local and Penn College communities.
More information on Penn College's Office of Disability & Access Resources and BLaST IU 17 can be attained on their websites.