Special Series Focus: DRP's

From Guidance to Growth: The Impact of Mentorship in Disability Services

 Hashtags: #MentoringMonth #ThankYourMentorDay

Description

This episode explores the critical role of mentorship and sponsorship in building the next generation of disability resource professionals (DRPs). The participants discuss their experiences as mentors and mentees, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and collaboration within the field. They highlight the value of peer mentoring and the power of investing in others. The conversation also touches on the emotional commitment and enduring connections that come with mentorship. Committed to growth and sustainability in the profession, the participants discuss the need for succession planning. They emphasize the need for communication, guidance, and empowerment in mentoring relationships. The impact of mentoring on individuals and the profession is highlighted, as well as the importance of leaving a legacy and paying it forward. The conversation addresses the challenges of fostering the next generation of DRPs and concludes with the importance self-care, including maintaining boundaries and work-life balance. 

Host

Lisa Meeks: The host of the podcast and mentee to all of the guests.

Guests 

• Jane Jarrow : The President of Disability Access Information and Support, Jane brings over two decades of private consulting experience and a rich history as the first executive director of AHEAD. With a background in speech and hearing, she's been a pivotal figure in the growth of disability services.

• Jane Thierfeld Brown : With over 44 years in disability services, Jane's work at the University of Connecticut School of Law and her focus on college students with autism have made her a renowned expert. As a director of College Autism Spectrum, she continues to influence the field.

• Paul Grossman: Serving as the Executive Counsel of AHEAD, Paul's journey from a college dropout due to dyslexia to a leading civil rights attorney for the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights is nothing short of inspiring. His contributions to post-secondary disability law are foundational.

• Michelle Rigler: As the Executive Director of the Disability Resource Center at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Michelle has mentored several up and coming DRP leaders. Michelle's creation of the Mosaic program stands as a testament to her dedication to individuals with autism and her work with NavigateU further extends her impact on the field.

• Jan Serrantino: Retired from the University of California, Irvine, Jan's career transitioned from advocating for children in foster care to teaching and leading in disability services. She now assists students with accommodations for high-stakes exams and consults with medical schools.

Transcript

Keywords: Disability Resource Professional, Disability, DRP, Accommodation, Mentorship, Sponsorship, Authenticity, Succession Planning, AHEAD.

Produced by: Lisa Meeks and Jacob Feeman

Audio editor: Jacob Feeman

Digital Media: Lisa Meeks