Experience College Life with READY: An Inclusive Summer Program for Individuals with IDD

READY is a four-week residential program at the University of Mississippi designed to provide individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) a meaningful and inclusive higher education experience.

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About the READY Experience

Participants will benefit from enrolling in classes, engaging in college life, and eventually pursuing certificates that prepare them for employment. READY will promote greater independence and inclusion for young adults with IDD and prepare the next generation to be active, thriving members of their communities.

About READY

Learn more about READY by browsing our frequently asked questions below!

READY will provide a four-week summer bridge for IDD students who are entering their last year of high school or just beginning life after graduation.

The Winter Preview offers a two-day campus introduction and program overview for 18 students and their families. Students and families will participate in on-campus activities, meet READY leadership, and learn more about the summer residential experience.

The READY Summer Experience is a four-week residential experience for 10 students.

Students will participate in academic lessons, co-curricular life skills workshops, off-campus field trips, and social skill development.

The READY staff for the summer program will include a lead teacher, two instructional leaders, two student directors and 14 peer mentors.

READY strives to build a strong foundation of resiliency, empower personal growth, ensure access to essential skills and resources, foster self-discovery, and promote independence. This program prepares students to successfully transition into college and career pathways, supporting their journey toward meaningful and fulfilling futures.

READY supports families by providing resources to better prepare their students for pursuing IHEPs upon completion of their secondary education.

The READY program was developed from two Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College student theses submitted by 2024 graduate Bailey Beaird of Dallas, Texas, and current senior Emily Davis of Benton, Louisiana.

READY is housed in the Division of Student Affairs, with collaborative partnerships with the School of Education, School of Applied Sciences, Residence Life and several other UM units.

Read about us in the news

Learn more about READY and its creation at Ole Miss News!

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Support READY

To make READY affordable and accessible to all interested students, the university is fundraising to secure $125,000 in private gifts, with more than $30,000 attracted so far. These funds will directly support the high-quality programming and personnel that will make READY a transformational experience.

Donate Directly

To support READY, send a check with "READY" written in the memo line to the University of Mississippi Foundation, 406 University Ave., Oxford, MS 38655; or click below.