'Transition Conference' Eases Teens' Postgraduate Concerns
Published 03.13.2017
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Nearly 50 11th-graders from five Lycoming County school districts attended Wednesday's Transition Conference, hosted by Penn College's Disability Services Office. The well-received event allowed the juniors to explore training, employment, community living and other options after graduation. The keynote speaker was college alumna Melissa A. Wilson, who earned a bachelor's degree in applied health studies in May. Wilson, who was also awarded the Board of Directors' Award "for achievement under exceptional conditions," shared her powerful story of perseverance after the near-fatal July 2007 traffic accident that left her paralyzed. Popular sessions included "Financial Health: Managing Money, Reducing Debt and Making Wise Choices," and attendees were also given a campus tour. Kay A. Dunkleberger, director of disability services, said 84 percent of participants felt the conference reduced their concerns and questions about life after high school. The survey also showed that the students were interested in military service, higher education and postsecondary training. The conference, which included presentations by college staff and outside agencies, was co-organized by Dunkleberger and Lauren J. Crouse, an applied human services senior interning with Disability Services.Photos by Tia G. La, student photographer