The University of North Carolina at Greensboro selects Monarch as partner for Beyond Academics

Monarch will provide support services to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities admitted and enrolled in the University’s Integrative Community Studies Program.

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) has selected Monarch as its community partner of choice to provide support services to students enrolled in the Beyond Academics Comprehensive Transition Program. The Integrative Community Studies (ICS) program was the first post-secondary program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in North Carolina, with its inaugural class graduating in 2007.

Created by UNCG Vice Chancellor for Research and Engagement Dr. Terri L. Shelton in 2007, Beyond Academics provides a post-secondary education option to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students enrolled in the Beyond Academics program at UNCG receive a four-year certificate of completion in Integrative Community Studies (ICS) from the Office of the Provost and job training that prepares them for 21st century jobs, independent living, engaging in civic and social activity – a comprehensive skill set that trains young adults and puts them in positions to become active contributors to the communities in which they live.

“As we enter into the next decade of accessible excellence in providing post-secondary education for individuals with I/DD, UNCG is pleased to begin this partnership with Monarch,” said Vice Chancellor for Research and Engagement Dr. Terri Shelton. “The provision of support services for Beyond Academics is an essential part of the academic programming that provides a unique opportunity for students to apply the skills acquired in the certificate program. We can think of no better partner in moving this important initiative forward.”

The partnership will allow Monarch’s existing experience in support services around the state to help students in the ICS program advance their opportunities to live independently. Support services offered to students will include:

• Community Living: teaching and assisting with daily living skills, community participation, interpersonal skills, personal health, wellness, and safety
• Student-life: navigating campus life, linking to campus activities, and developing life profiles
• Employment: pre-job training, coaching while on the job, and determining a career path
• Post-Graduation: continued guidance for life transitions related to community living, employment, and self-determination

“At Monarch, we are elated to be the chosen partner to offer support to students enrolled in the Beyond Academics program at UNCG. We will do whatever necessary to make this a smooth transition for students currently enrolled,” said Monarch President and CEO Dr. Peggy Terhune, who is a UNCG graduate.

“As a long-time, statewide provider of services for people with disabilities, our staff is both qualified and dedicated to the continuation of this dynamic program. We will assist students with the pursuit of their academic achievements while we also help them to proactively explore their interests outside of the classroom. As we continue support for Beyond Academics in this more expansive role, we remain committed to the successful future of this important program.”

Dr. Karen Diegelmann has been hired to serve as the Beyond Academics Postsecondary Education Support Team Leader at Monarch.

For additional information on UNCG, visit www.uncg.edu; for more on Beyond Academics, please visit https://beyondacademics.uncg.edu.