Yarbrough, Dana

VR state agency leaders explored successes and challenges in partnering with higher education programs for students with intellectual disability at a listening session held by the Employment Partnerships Workgroup, supported by the Think College Inclusive Higher Education Network. This concise brief summarizes the key issues discussed and offers VR state leaders' recommendations for enhancing partnerships between state VR agencies and higher education programs to improve access and opportunities for paid employment for students with intellectual disability.

At a listening session held by the Employment Partnerships Workgroup, supported by the Think College Inclusive Higher Education Network, five state VR agency leaders explored successes and challenges in partnering with higher education programs for students with intellectual disability. This Insight Brief provides an overview of the listening session and discussion of the key issues identified: language barriers, need for better communication, lack of awareness of systems and guidance, funding challenges, and the need for goal alignment and employment-focused programming.