Professional Development

AHEAD in Texas is committed to the growth and advancement of the disability services field through the development of professionals working with students with disabilities in higher education across our region.

Professional development can be offered in a variety of formats, including webinars, blog posts and much more. AHEAD in Texas is exploring ways to offer members, and even those who are not currently affiliated with our organization, opportunities to engage, collaborate and expand their skill set.

Join Us In Houston

The AHEAD in Texas Spring Conference is your opportunity to connect with disability services professionals from across the state, share best practices, and explore innovative strategies to enhance access, inclusion, and student success in higher education.

This year’s conference will feature engaging sessions, expert presenters, hands-on learning opportunities, and plenty of time to network with peers who share your commitment to serving students with disabilities. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, there’s something for everyone.

Lunch and Learn Sessions

Community Colleges, Junior Colleges, and Technical Colleges

AHEAD in Texas members working for community/junior colleges or technical colleges with open enrollment meet monthly to discuss various topics relevant to their roles as disability service providers. This group meets via Zoom on the first Thursday of each month. Click “Lunch and Learn Sessions” to Join. For details , please contact Alexis Baker.

Universities: 4 Year Institutions

AHEAD in Texas members working for 4 year universities meet monthly to discuss various topics relevant to their roles as disability service providers. This group meets via Zoom on the third Wednesday of each month. For details and access, please contact Tamara Mancini or Tiffany Rivers.

Webinars

Fall 2025 Lunch and Learn

No Room at the Inn: Creative Strategies for Managing Housing Accommodations

As campus housing shortages continue to challenge institutions nationwide, universities must find innovative ways to meet student needs while maintaining compliance with accommodation requirements. This conversation will explore practical strategies for balancing limited housing inventory with legal and ethical responsibilities under the ADA and Fair Housing Act. Participants will gain insights into creative solutions, collaborative practices, and policy considerations that ensure equitable access to on-campus housing for all students.

Fall 2025 Virtual Conference

Summer 2024 Virtual Brown Bag

Is That a Reasonable Accommodation? Establishing Technical Standards and Essential Elements.

July 11, 2024. This session assisted attendees in understanding the difference between technical standards and essential elements and how to support faculty in understanding the need to establish these for their programs and classes. The fundamental alterations procedure will be reviewed. Presented by Marilyn Harren, Director of ACCESS at Collin College.

Spring 2024 Virtual Brown Bag

Fall 2023 Forum

Session 1: NOVEMBER 1, 2023 at 12 PM (CST). Forum was recorded, archived, and available to active members. Burning Questions & Best Practices: Open discussion regarding housing accommodations, flexible attendance/deadlines, audio recording as time permits.

Fall Forum Round One – Housing

Session 2: DECEMBER 5, 2023 at 12 PM (CST) Forum was recorded, archived, and available to active members. Burning Questions & Best Practices: Open discussion on trending hot topics in our offices such as housing accommodations, flexible attendance/deadlines, etc. As time permits, we will discuss current relevant topics including Pregnancy and Parent Legislation (SB412).

Fall Forum Round Two – Parenting Services