I am honored to assume the role of associate dean of academic affairs at the Munroe-Meyer Institute this July 1. As Nebraska’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), MMI upholds a strong commitment to interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education, rooted in meaningful partnerships, dedicated faculty and a focus on excellence.
I am committed to ensuring that students and trainees at MMI receive the highest quality interdisciplinary education and training, reflecting the collaborative, person-centered care essential to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the lifespan.
This role is both a privilege and a responsibility, as it plays a vital part in the growth and success of our educational mission. This academic year, MMI trained more than 300 students and trainees from over 80 colleges and universities, representing 14 different disciplines. Our highly sought-after training programs have ranged from formal degree programs and clinical fellowships to internships, shadowing experiences and opportunities to observe interdisciplinary clinics in action. These diverse experiences prepare learners to become compassionate, knowledgeable professionals who will shape the future of care and advocacy for individuals with IDD.
As a UCEDD, our mission includes preparing professionals to work collaboratively across disciplines, delivering high-quality clinical services, designing programs that serve as community models, and generating and sharing knowledge to improve systems of care. These priorities guide our work and ensure that MMI remains a national leader in academic and clinical training.
Grounded in these priorities, our education and training programs have developed deep, well-established roots, built through years of collaboration, expertise, and innovation. These roots will support continued growth as we branch into new opportunities and expand our educational portfolio. I look forward to working alongside our team to cultivate innovation, broaden our reach and ensure our programs remain a national model for interdisciplinary training.