IDS Celebrates First RISE To The Top! Graduates at Southern Miss
The Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) is proud to celebrate a historic milestone as the first students from the RISE To The Top! program graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi this spring.
Graduates Taylor Carley and Dan Lewis crossed the commencement stage after completing the four-year inclusive certificate program designed for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their achievement represents years of hard work, determination, and growth—and demonstrates the life-changing impact of inclusive higher education.
RISE (Reaching, Including, Supporting, and Educating) provides students with opportunities to participate in academics, campus life, career development, independent living experiences, and community engagement alongside their peers. Through individualized support and person-centered planning, students develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue their goals after graduation.
A key component of the program’s success is the Student Partner initiative. Each RISE student is paired with a Southern Miss student who commits to meeting with them for at least one hour every week throughout the academic year. Student partners help students navigate campus life, build social connections, participate in activities, and strengthen skills that support academic and personal success.
These relationships often become one of the most meaningful parts of the college experience. Student partners serve as mentors, encouragers, and friends while helping create a more inclusive campus community for everyone.
Currently, student partners volunteer their time and dedication to supporting RISE students. As the program continues to grow, IDS is seeking donors who believe in the power of inclusion and want to help sustain this important work. Future donations could help establish scholarships for student partners, recognizing their commitment while easing the financial burden many college students face.
The graduation of the first RISE cohort is more than a milestone—it is a testament to what can happen when students are given opportunities, support, and a community that believes in their potential.
As we celebrate these graduates, we also look ahead to the future of RISE and the many students whose lives will be transformed through inclusive higher education experiences at Southern Miss.
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