Program and Partnership Highlights
Designed and supported immersive career exploration and job readiness programs for youth with disabilities.
Impact:
Increased youth confidence in workplace communication and independence
Strengthened job readiness skills including teamwork, problem-solving, and self-advocacy
Expanded awareness of vocational rehabilitation services among youth and families
Strengthened transition pathways from school to workforce systems
Encouraged early engagement in employment planning and post-secondary exploration
Built sustainable partnerships with community organizations and service providers
Coordinated multi-agency involvement to deliver comprehensive workforce readiness experiences
Created inclusive learning environments tailored for Deaf and hard of hearing youth and other underserved populations
Improved access to career exploration opportunities for students facing systemic barriers
Supported family engagement to strengthen long-term service participation
Summer Workforce Readiness Camps (CRAVE & Beyond the Deaf Home)
Commissioner
Co-led planning and implementation of a large-scale community engagement conference focused on increasing awareness of vocational rehabilitation services, advocacy, and education. Collaborated closely with Deaf-serving state agencies, commissioners, providers, community partners, and employers to strengthen workforce access and opportunities.
Impact:
Expanded cross-sector partnerships across workforce, education, medical, and community organizations
Increased referrals and access to services for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals
Strengthened systems navigation and advocacy, improving coordination between agencies and programs
Built sustainable collaborations to enhance opportunities, equity, and access for underserved populations
Raised awareness of community needs and fostered shared solutions among providers, educators, and policymakers