AUCD Leadership Academy Shapes the Future of Disability

Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, Josephine Cruz, was one of 24 participants selected from across the nation to attend the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) Leadership Academy.  The AUCD Leadership Academy was held at Georgia State University from June 28 through June 29.  The goal of the Academy was to cultivate 21st century leaders for the disability movement through a focus on strengths-based and authentic leadership that promotes collective impact.  The Courage and Renewal principles and practices were used as a framework for the training.  Participants had the opportunity to tour the National Center on Civil and Human Rights and to meet disability self-advocates who are at the forefront of the national disability movement including Liz Weintraub, You-Tube star of Tuesdays with Liz:  Disability Policy For All and Jeiri Flores, Self-Advocacy Discipline Coordinator.  In addition, participants were able to network and share leadership challenges with other leaders in the disability movement in their allied groups.  The Academy provided valuable learning experiences that will facilitate and sustain the leadership at Guam CEDDERS.

L-R: Dr. Valerie William, Director, Center for Learning and Leadership University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center; Dr. Daniel Crimmins, Director, Center for Leadership in Disability; Josephine Cruz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate; Andrew Imparto, JD, Executive Director, Association of University Centers on Disabilities.
L-R: Liz Weintraub, AUCD Senior Advocacy Specialist and You-Tube star; Josephine Cruz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate.
AUCD faculty prepare for training. L-R: Matthew Williams, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Forum for Theological Exploration; Mark Crenshaw, MTS, Director of Interdisciplinary Training, Center for Leadership Disability.
AUCD Leadership Academy trainees, faculty, and guest speakers pose for a group photo after touring the National Center on Civil and Human Rights.
AUCD Developmental Disabilities