NDSU Transition and Access Program to graduate first cohort May 16

On Saturday, May 16, the first Transition and Access Program cohort will stand shoulder to shoulder with their fellow NDSU graduates and walk across the stage, taking their next steps toward independence.

TAP is a three-year inclusive postsecondary program in which students graduate with a college-to-career certificate of completion. The program is designed for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to attend college, learn to live independently, build social confidence and prepare to work in our communities. The program, which began as a grant in partnership with Minot State University, is currently in its third year, with 20 students enrolled and is now self-sustaining.

“Students supported by the program develop individual goals in key areas and receive the same opportunities and experiences that all students at NDSU have,” said Molly McKinnon, director of the Center for Accessibility and Disability.

Throughout the three years students spend on campus, they receive support to build academic success, social confidence, job readiness and independent living skills, explained Jordan Bentz, TAP program coordinator.

This inclusive environment doesn’t just impact the students enrolled in the program; it has helped NDSU students learn about disabilities, helped faculty develop creative solutions and helped build a culture of empathy.

Students in the TAP program aren’t just supported by NDSU staff and faculty, they are also supported by peer mentors who help navigate campus life whether it be in the classroom, dorm, or at campus events.

“The peer mentors are NDSU students, and they help bridge the gap between TAP and the rest of the NDSU community,” McKinnon said. “A large piece of the program is the opportunities to be social and included on campus.”

Charlie Kern described his time at NDSU as pretty great, admitting he made friends and enjoyed interacting with others on campus. From biking around campus to participating in Bison Unified, the student organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity through recreational activities, Kern formed relationships and learned about teamwork.

After graduation, Kern will return to Grafton, North Dakota, where he will start a job at Grafton High School.

As Alexander Aikens prepares to graduate from the TAP program, she is looking forward to staying involved on campus through continuing to work for the NDSU greenhouses and singing the national anthem at Bison sporting events.

Regularly dressed in Bison green and yellow, Bentz describes Aikens as the definition of Bison pride. “She’s the biggest NDSU fan.”

From learning about self-advocacy in classes to making friends, Aikens has loved her NDSU experience. During her time in the program, she completed internships at the NDSU library and daycare, attended cheer practice and enjoyed having lunch in the union. In her future, Aikens plans to be involved in community organizations such as the Special Olympics, Red River Dance and the Fargo-Moorhead Choir.

Friend of Aikens and fellow cohort member, Samuel Lester, will graduate from the TAP program and shared his positive experience of learning, making friends and biking around campus and Fargo with his all-terrain bicycle.

“If TAP wasn’t here, I wouldn’t be here,” Lester said.

Lester is excited to apply some of the lessons he’s learned from his business and entrepreneurial classes to the lawn care business he’s been running since he was 14. He’s created business cards and plans to develop a personal brand as well.

Throughout his time on campus, Lester has been able to assist TAP cohort members, faculty and staff with technical and IT issues as well as assembling furniture. This program has helped him realize how much he enjoys helping.

“I just want to help people,” Lester said.

After commencement, Lester will be moving into an apartment, working at West Acres Cinema and continuing his lawncare business. He hopes to stay connected to NDSU as well, potentially serving as an alumni ambassador for TAP.

“This program is so much more than just opportunities for students,” McKinnon said. “I think we are being role models for other universities.”

On Saturday, Aikens, Lester, and Kern will be the first TAP cohort to graduate. For more information on TAP visit the program page.