The transition from high school to further education, training, or career is a pivotal time for young people. Marginalized groups – including deaf students – are especially vulnerable during this time, and access to services is critical to ensuring success.

AUSTIN, Texas (January 19, 2021) - Carrie Lou Garberoglio, PhD, was named director and principal investigator of the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes (NDC) effective January 1, and Tia Ivanko, MA, NIC, ADAC, was named associate director and co-principal investigator.

These days it can be considered a cliche, but for me, it’s very heartfelt: I sincerely hope this update finds you and your family healthy and safe.

As you well know, the National Deaf Center specializes in transitions — the big life changes that prepare us for success and set paths toward bright futures.

The Engage for Change | state (EFC) team from Idaho is known for being a model for others.

Now, thanks to a partnership that includes funding from one of the nation’s biggest food companies, they are taking that to the next level as they prepare deaf youth for success after high school.

The lived experience and knowledge of deaf community members must guide policy changes, strategic planning, and programs that are designed to reduce barriers and increase opportunities for deaf people in the United States. In reality, however, this is seldom the case. Decisions are made for, and on behalf of, deaf people without involving them every day.

Leaders in education and vocational rehabilitation (VR) met throughout the summer and fall in Engage for Change | state (EFC) online regional meetings organized by the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes (NDC) — determined to advance their short-term pandemic response and proactively create long-term strategies to improve services, support, and outreach to deaf youth.