UNCW Introduces Inclusive Futures Program

This fall, UNCW welcomed five students to the first cohort of the Inclusive Futures Program. IFP is a new two-year, non-degree undergraduate program for students with intellectual disabilities. Offered by UNCW’s Division of Student Affairs in collaboration with the Watson College of Education, the program helps students develop independent living skills and explore career interests through internships and courses.

UNCW’s program is the first of its kind in Southeastern North Carolina.

“At UNCW, we believe every student deserves the chance to discover their potential and shape their future,”  said Christine Reed Davis, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. “The Inclusive Futures Program reflects our commitment to building a campus where all students belong, learn, and thrive. We are grateful to our partners in the Watson College of Education for helping us create an opportunity that not only transforms the lives of participating students, but also enriches our entire Seahawk community.”

Students in the IFP gain a well-rounded college experience. They audit both traditional and career-concentration courses, learn independent living skills in the new Life Skills Lab in Watson College’s Sayed Hall - which includes a full kitchen and laundry facilities – and will have an opportunity to engage in hands-on activities in the Ability Garden, an outdoor learning space created through Watson’s collaboration with New Hanover County Schools’ Transition Program for Young Adults (TPYA), and the New Hanover County Arboretum. In their second year, students expand their learning through community-based internships.

Graduates of the program earn an Inclusive Life Skills and Career Development Certificate, a credential that can open doors to future employment opportunities.

“An estimated 1 to 3 percent of the population has an intellectual disability,” said Ryan Wennerlind, director of UNCW’s Inclusive Futures Program. “In many ways, these students are just like other graduating seniors. They may have a sibling in college or parents who attended college, and they want that experience too. We’re thrilled to offer that opportunity here at UNCW.”

The Inclusive Futures program is based in Student Affairs, with the certificate awarded through the Watson College of Education. Wennerlind and his team work closely with Watson College Special Education faculty Sharon Richter and James Stocker, while 20 UNCW students serve as peer mentors for participants in the program.

Wennerlind began his career as a high school special education teacher and later served as director of Project FOCUS, an inclusive postsecondary education program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.  During his tenure, enrollment grew from one to 25 students. Since joining UNCW in 2023, he has focused on building a strong foundation for Inclusive Futures, and hopes to see similar growth here at UNCW in the years ahead.

“Students have an incredible ability to learn and grow,” Wennerlind said. “It’s amazing to see how independent they become - that’s one of my favorite things about this program. With an inclusive campus, outstanding faculty partners, and facilities like the Life Skills Lab and the Ability Garden, UNCW is well-positioned to provide a transformative experience for these students.” 

For more information, visit the Inclusive Futures Program website or the Watson College of Education’s Special Education website.