Get to Know IDS

Welcome! We’re glad you’re here!

The Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) is Mississippi’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD). IDS’ work is about enhancing quality of life for Mississippians with disabilities. For nearly 50 years, we have promoted independence, productivity, and community inclusion for people with disabilities statewide through the provisions of training, technical assistance, service, research, and information-sharing.

Our work spans three core areas: Education, Community Living, and Family Engagement. On this site, you can search for updates specifically within each of these categories.

As of May 2025, IDS proudly operates 20 programs within these core areas, each with their own unique purpose to serve our disabled community and their families.  These programs are as follows: STEP UP Hattiesburg, STEP UP Gulf Coast, STEP OUT, RISE TTT! Southern Miss, Community Volunteer Club, Empowering Pathways to Independence in Communities, Adaptive Sports Southern Miss, SO College Southern Miss, Advocacy Entrepreneurship, Wounded Warrior Independence Program, Learn the Signs. Act Early., LEND, ToTAL (Transition of Teens to Adult Life), Southeast ADA, Preservice Enhancement for Occupational Therapy Students, Project Recovery, Family Advocacy, Pathway Weavers, Job Extravaganza, Family Advocacy Network, Getting Employable Today (GET), START, Autism Support Specialists, and Customized Employment Specialists.

For more information on our programs or general questions, we invite you to contact us directly. If you’re interested in financially aiding the incredible work we do, contributions can be made online through the USM Foundation here or mailed to us via check.  For detailed instructions on navigating the online donation portal, please view this video.  We look forward to your continued support as we strive to make Mississippi a more inclusive state for individuals with disabilities and their families.