NSU recognizes Inclusive Postsecondary Education Day in Oklahoma - May 1

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University is recognizing May 1 as Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) Day in Oklahoma, a new statewide designation highlighting the impact of programs that expand access to higher education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  

The designation follows collaborative efforts among Oklahoma higher education institutions, state partners and the Oklahoma Inclusive Postsecondary Education Alliance (OKIPSEA) to expand postsecondary opportunities and strengthen pathways to competitive integrated employment.

 As the home of Oklahoma’s first IPSE program, NSU continues to lead efforts with its RiverHawks Scholar Program (RSP), providing students with intellectual and developmental disabilities a full college experience and increased opportunities for independence and career success.

The recognition coincides with a recent visit from Oklahoma IPSE Alliance Director Julia Lackey, who met with RSP students on the Tahlequah campus to celebrate continued growth of inclusive postsecondary education in the state.

Justin Chase, RSP Director, described the importance of this distinction.

"By recognizing IPSE Day, we are acknowledging that post-secondary education is now a reality for students with intellectual disabilities,” Chase said. “This day is about promoting the outstanding programs in our state and showing that college is a space where all students belong."

Chase pointed to program outcomes as evidence of impact.

“The data is clear: IPSE programs change lives,” he said. “While the national employment rate for adults with disabilities is around 24 percent, our RiverHawks Scholar Program graduates have a 75 percent employment rate. Our students aren’t just attending college. They are gaining the skills needed to pursue meaningful careers and greater independence."

Since its launch in 2018, the RiverHawks Scholar Program has served more than 40 students, with continued plans for growth.

“Our goal is to grow by another 50 percent over the next five years,” Chase said. “With the support of the Oklahoma Access & Achievement Scholarship and federal aid, NSU is removing financial barriers and making the dream of college accessible to more Oklahoma families."

NSU President Rodney Hanley said the program is part of the university’s ongoing work to expand access and support student success.

“The RiverHawks Scholar Program represents the very best of who we are at Northeastern State University,” Hanley. “Our students bring so much to this campus, and we see every day the impact they’re making in the classroom and beyond. This recognition highlights the dedication of our faculty and the success our students are building for their futures.”

Supporting that success, NSU has worked to reduce financial barriers for participating students. Since the program’s launch, increased state and federal support has made it possible for many students to receive up to 75% significant assistance toward program costs.

To find out more about the RiverHawks Scholar Program at NSU, visit nsuok.edu/RHScholar.

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