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April 27, 2016

Roberts Celebrates Accomplishments of Bridge to Earning, Living and Learning (BELL) Students

Five BELL students will cross stage at spring commencement; inclusive ceremony a first for Rochester

[Photo L to R: Mark Houppert, President Deana L. Porterfield, Tyler Davis, Ann Costello -Director of the Golisano Foundation, Dalton Letta, Austin Ritondale, James Fortin]

Roberts Wesleyan College celebrated the accomplishments of the Bridge to Earning, Living and Learning (BELL) students yesterday. The BELL program is an inclusive postsecondary certificate program for students ages 18-26 with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are transitioning to adulthood. The program is a partnership between CP Rochester, Monroe 2 Orleans BOCES and Roberts Wesleyan College.  This year, five students completed the four-semester program: Tyler Davis, James Fortin, Mark Houppert, Dalton Letta and Austin Ritondale.  

“At Roberts, we focus on the personal growth of each student in a challenging and caring environment where each student feels a sense of belonging,” said Dr. Dave Basinger, chief academic officer at Roberts Wesleyan College. “The five 2016 graduates of the BELL Program have benefitted from career preparation and real-world applied learning through a range of academic, social and vocational experiences. In my 37 years here at Roberts, I’ve never been more proud of a group of graduates.”

Students in the BELL program focus on authentic inclusive experiences that provide academic enrichment, socialization, and the acquisition of life and vocational skills necessary for sustainable and gainful employment. A key component of this program is that all members of the campus community can benefit from inclusive experiences. BELL students complete college courses and work with undergraduate students who serve as academic coaches and peer mentors. All courses, activities and work experiences are catered to students’ individual career goals and interests. Personal enrichment, independence and preparation for competitive employment after graduation are goals for all students.

At Monday’s celebration, each student presented on his experience as a student and fielded questions from the audience. One student shared that being in the program taught him to “never give up, be assertive” and that he could do amazing things. At the end of each presentation, each student shared thoughts for his future, including “keep moving forward,” “think bigger” and “be better for the future.”

The BELL program at Roberts started in 2010 and is in its sixth year on campus. This year, for the first time, the BELL students will walk in commencement, making this inclusive ceremony a first for Rochester. Roberts Wesleyan College’s Commencement will be held May 7 at 2:30 p.m. in the Voller Athletic Center Arena on campus. 

“The heart of the BELL program is inclusivity,” added Kym Woodard, BELL program director at Roberts Wesleyan College. “Roberts Wesleyan College is the only college in Rochester that includes students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a traditional graduation. The opportunity to walk the stage at commencement is vital to honoring the achievements BELL students have made and to fully welcome them in the community.”

The BELL program started under a five-year Federal TSPSD grant in coordination with other area colleges. Roberts Wesleyan College now funds the program through a combination of agency support, tuition and Roberts scholarships.

 

                  

  Photo:  Tyler Davis                                                                         Photo: Dalton Letta + family members


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