RISE Hosts Its First In-Person Open House

On November 5th, RISE held its first-ever in-person Open House, marking an exciting milestone for the program. The event included an informative overview of RISE, a student and parent panel highlighting their experiences, and a guided tour! The event offered a wonderful opportunity for prospective families, professionals and more to learn more about the program’s mission, culture, and impact.

Attending college is a dream for many young people, including those with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.  The Reaching, Including, Supporting and Educating (RISE) To The Top! Southern Miss inclusive postsecondary education program provides these potential students the opportunity to reach that dream. These Eagles can soar like all Southern Miss students to succeed, thrive, and reach their full potential whilst enjoying all what the University has to offer.

The RISE To The Top! Southern Miss program, fully established in 2024 with a pilot program since 2015, is a four-year, eight-semester inclusive college program leading to a certificate upon completion. The program is focused on four major areas: academics, community engagement, employment and student life.

This program is a partnership between the Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) and the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and Professional Development. For more information on the RISE To The Top! Program, contact Danielle Mullins, Executive Coordinator for Transition Services, at 601.266.5962 or alyssa.parks@usm.edu.