As the end of the academic year approaches, we reflect on the strides made over the last two semesters. In some ways it is surprising to believe that another year has come and gone. In retrospect it is encouraging to reflect upon the astounding growth the Center has experienced made possible by the invaluable collaborations shared across campus, at our clinics, in the Waco community, and beyond. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month and National Mobility Awareness Month. Each reminds us of the importance of advocating for greater understanding, support, and belonging throughout our community. Though campus may appear sparse the next few months, please know that our team remains faithful and diligent in pursuing the impactful work that supports and unites people with and without disabilities. We encourage you to stay connected and invite you to join us for any events. Wishing you a blessed, restful summer!
- Erik Carter & Kristen Padilla
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We are excited to welcome Callan Glascock to our team as the new program coordinator! Callan will manage administrative tasks and support the Center’s daily operations. In less than a year, the Center has grown from a staff of four to 17! We are grateful for every one of our team members dedicated to this important work.
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Congratulations to Grace Casper for receiving a well-deserved Baylor University Outstanding Staff Award! Her dedication, positive energy, and heart for serving make her a cherished member of our team, the Baylor family, and greater Waco community.
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Dr. Emily Frake recently traveled to Washington, D.C. for the 2025 Disability Policy Seminar, where she learned about important policy issues and met with Texas representatives about priorities for children and adults with disabilities.
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Dr. Melody Escobar was featured at the April Baylor Libraries Author Series, which showcased her book, “Revelations of Divine Care: Disability, Spirituality, and Mutual Flourishing.” The interview—led by Devan Stahl, Associate Professor of Bioethics and Religion—generated meaningful discussion. A recording of the session is available.
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Save the date for our OsoAble Transition to Adulthood event on October 17 at the Hurd Welcome Center! This full-day event is tailored for adolescents and young adults aged 14-30 with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), their parents, educators, and service providers. It will provide valuable information about postsecondary opportunities. Don't miss this chance to learn new tips and connect with others who share similar interests!
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Our Bridges to Belonging cohort convened for a virtual gathering last month to discuss ways to support young people with disabilities, mental health challenges, and chronic illnesses beyond Sunday morning worship. Dr. Gaynor Yancey, director of the Center for Church and Community Impact (C3I), shared how churches can create impactful and sustainable strategies that truly embody the church’s mission during the week. When young people and their families feel empowered, supported, and included, the entire church community thrives. We are grateful for our continued partnership with C3I.
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The Center hosts a monthly Spanish support group for Spanish-speaking parents who have a child with a disability. To honor and celebrate our families, we will host a Cinco de Mayo themed event for families that will include activities, games, food, beverages, and a resource fair TODAY at South Waco Community Center.
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We are currently recruiting participants for the Baylor STEPS (Supporting Transition and Empowering Post-Secondary Success) Program, which provides a comprehensive, person-centered approach to supporting youth and young adults, ages 13-21 years old, with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) as they transition into adulthood. The program administers high-quality, holistic assessments, develops individualized planning, and offers thorough collaboration with clients, families, and educators. Baylor STEPS aims to provide personalized, actionable recommendations that support postsecondary success for youth and young adults with IDD across working, learning, and living environments. For more information, please see the STEPS program overview. For questions or to speak with a member of our team, contact BU_transition@baylor.edu.
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Dr. Kristen Padilla represented the Center at the 2025 Texas State Capitol Day. This powerful day of civic engagement brought together fellows from three major interdisciplinary training programs—ACT LEND (Autism Consortium of Texas), LoneStar LEND (Houston), and Help Me Grow (El Paso)—for a collaborative and impactful experience at the Texas State Capitol. Dr. Padilla spoke along with Waco Family Medicine CEO, Jackson Griggs, M.D., and former Congressman, The Honorable Chet Edwards.
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Thank you to Dr. Sarah Mire, Dr. Tamara Hodges and Dr. Kristen Padilla for successfully facilitating the first medical residency rotation in partnership with Waco Family Medicine (WFM). This specialized rotation trained primary care physicians in autism assessment and applied behavioral analysis therapy for young children, teens, and young adults. Residents completed modules about special education law and ways to help families identify supports both in and out of school settings. The goal of this partnership with WFM is to effectively train family physicians to identify autism spectrum disorder early and enhance the referral process. Waco Family Medicine is in the top 2% of family medicine residency programs in the nation. We look forward to training new residents next year. For information about ongoing clinic services, call (254) 710-7677.
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As the only disability-focused research center at a Christian university, we are faithfully working to serve our community well and wisely. We need your support and partnership to promote the flourishing of people impacted by disability. We invite you to consider making a gift to advance this important work.
Your collaboration, prayer, and support help:
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- Conduct groundbreaking research to develop best practices.
- Expand community clinics and accessible resources.
- Facilitate research and training for accessible education, ministry and workplaces.
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Ensure every person with a disability can thrive and contribute across their lifespan.
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Together, let’s build a world where people of all abilities can flourish.
Give. Pray. Share.
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