VCU to host first annual college quest March 20

By Malorie Burkett

RICHMOND, Va. - Virginia Commonwealth University will host the first annual College Quest, a one-day conference for college-bound high school students with disabilities and their parents. It will take place Saturday, March 20, 9 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.

The conference agenda includes panel discussions by college students with disabilities and parents whose children with disabilities have attended college, and small group workshops of interest to students and parents. Workshop topics will include:

• Essential skills for academic success in college

• Spectrum of supports in college

• Self-determination skill development

• College searches via the Internet

• Financial aid

• Essential technology for college

• Online classes in college

• Career technical opportunities

• The role of the Department of Rehabilitative Services in postsecondary education

A resource fair will be held throughout the day, and disability support personnel from community and four-year colleges and universities in Virginia will be available for questions. Registration is free and complimentary parking passes will be available for the first 300 participants.

The conference is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Education's Training and Technical Assistance Centers at VCU and The College of William and Mary; the VCU Professional Development Academy at the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Workplace Supports; and the Virginia Higher Education Leadership Partnership.

For more information, e-mail Katherine Wittig at kmwittig@vcu.edu or Don Finn at definn@vcu.edu.