Daemen University ASCEND (Academic Success & Career Exploration for New Directions) program students participated in a graduation celebration on April 9 in recognition of their completion of the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State’s (SANYS) six week self-advocacy training program, SANYS U: The School of Grassroots Advocacy.
The multi-session leadership course taught ASCEND students, along with students from People Inc.’s YALT (Young Adult Life Transitions) program, important skills through interactive activities and discussions, including the history of the self-advocacy movement, rights and responsibilities, self-advocacy skills, and leadership and community involvement.
During the ceremony, which featured student leadership presentations, ASCEND students reminded each other about the importance of self-advocacy. Hailey said, “Using your voice is the first step to creating the life you want and helping others do the same.” Kayla quoted a line from High School Musical, saying, “We’re all in this together.”
Lisa Casper, ASCEND program director, said, “I am so happy to see the academic and social growth of the ASCEND students over the course of this year. Each student has gained a true understanding of what it means to self advocate in the community and at home.”
Casper and Renee Rudniski, director of day services for YALT, planned the event, which concluded with a certificate of completion presentation from SANYS.