Syracuse Sun

Syracuse University's InclusiveU program is making strides in providing higher education opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The initiative, part of the Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education, has become a model for similar programs nationwide by offering individualized coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities.

Matthew Falanga, a student majoring in communications at Syracuse who was born with Down syndrome, expressed his enthusiasm for the program: “I always wanted to go to college, and when I heard about Syracuse University and its InclusiveU program, I knew that was where I wanted to go to achieve my dreams.” He added that making new friends and being involved on campus makes him feel very happy.

InclusiveU Director Brianna Shults has been instrumental in promoting the program's benefits through trips to meet policymakers and increase awareness. Shults noted the importance of these opportunities: “There was this cliff that many students with developmental and intellectual disabilities would drop off once they graduated high school... By being able to take that next step in their development alongside their peers... InclusiveU has given students the opportunity to define who they are.”

The program has grown significantly over the past decade, now hosting 102 students on campus. This growth is supported by a $200,000 grant from the B. Thomas Golisano Foundation aimed at expanding inclusive college programs in New York.

Falanga recently interned with Disability Rights New Jersey and represented InclusiveU at a Disability Pride Event at the White House. He shared his message during his visit: “Just because I was born with a disability, I want to celebrate my disability... It is important for people with disabilities to learn about these programs [like InclusiveU] and know that they can go to college.”

Shults emphasized the broader impact of InclusiveU on Syracuse University: “It helps make all Syracuse University students better friends, better classmates, better coworkers and better community members.” She highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance inclusivity across campus.

Looking ahead, InclusiveU plans to launch its first inclusive study abroad experience in Italy. As Shults stated: “We want all students with intellectual or developmental disabilities who want to go to college to have an opportunity that fits their needs.”

Falanga continues his journey at Syracuse University by honing his public speaking skills and exploring career options. He remarked on his positive experience: “Syracuse University makes me feel very happy and proud. InclusiveU has helped me to make new friends, take great classes and explore my career choices. This has changed my life.”