Finding Common Ground: RISE Students Join the Unify America Challenge

Students in the Institute for Disability Studies’ RISE To The Top! program are breaking new ground in inclusive postsecondary education through their participation in the Unify America Challenge, a national initiative that brings college students together for meaningful conversations about issues and topics affecting most Americans.

As one of the first inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs to participate in the Challenge, RISE is helping create new opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to engage with college peers from across the country.

Through virtual, one-on-one conversations, RISE students have explored important issues, exchanged perspectives, identified common ground, and practiced navigating discussions with individuals whose experiences and opinions may differ from their own.

Beyond fostering meaningful connections, the experience supports essential skills such as communication, active listening, critical thinking, and self-advocacy. It also reinforces a fundamental goal of inclusive postsecondary education: ensuring students with disabilities have opportunities to participate fully in the broader college experience.

IDS is proud of our RISE students for embracing this opportunity, sharing their perspectives, and representing The University of Southern Mississippi on a national stage.