IN! is passionate about increasing inclusive higher education pathways for students with intellectual disability (ID) statewide. Thanks to the passage of HB22-1107, we continue to expand inclusive higher education efforts across Colorado through the Inclusive Higher Education Opportunities Grant Program. This grant opportunity ensures more colleges and universities open their doors to students with ID and helps countless students with ID pursue their college dreams! 

The first round of grant funding was awarded in July of 2023 to Colorado State University and Metropolitan State University of Denver, leading to a total of six inclusive college programs in Colorado, all of which are serving students this coming Fall. As of July 2024, two new colleges have been awarded grant funding to develop their inclusive higher education programs: 

We are thrilled to welcome Lamar Community College (LCC) & Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) to the inclusive higher education family! 

Representing our rural and community college expansion efforts, both LCC & PPSC meet unique needs in our state, including a dedication to serving Latinx and low-income students. We look forward to partnering with these institutions and continuing to improve inclusive pathways for all students with ID. With clear commitment to Colorado's four pillars of inclusive higher education (academic access, social engagement, career development, and increased independence), both institutions will be designing their inclusive programs over the next year and expect to welcome their first students in the fall of 2025. So, be on the look out for future updates regarding LCC & PPSC as they join the inclusive higher education community. 

These expansion efforts cannot be accomplished without the exceptional community we serve. Thank you for supporting and advocating for continued expansion alongside us. We are proud of the inclusive higher education pathways in Colorado, and we know our work is not done yet!