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.

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

Summer 2026 (July) Virtual Lunch and Learn

Free Accessibility Tools that Can Support the Use of Assistive Technology on Your Campus

July 15, 2026-An information-sharing session highlighting free accessibility tools that can support the use of assistive technology on your campus. These tools offer built-in accessibility features available to all users, including screen magnification, screen readers, color and contrast adjustments, text resizing, and other features that enhance access to digital content.

Summer 2026 (June) Virtual Lunch and Learn

Vocational Development

June 10, 2026- This professional development opportunity will explore how UNT ELEVAR integrates vocational development into person-centered planning (PCP), circles of support (COS), comprehensive academic advising, collaboration with vocational rehabilitation services, and alignment with university policy and strategic initiatives. Using a student-directed and career-centered approach, ELEVAR supports students in developing the skills needed to navigate employment systems, higher education, and life beyond college.

Furthermore, the presenters will share strategies for collaborating with VR counselors, supporting students in maintaining communication and documentation, and embedding workforce development into individualized planning. The session will also highlight tools for career exploration, workforce skill development, and goal setting that can be used across student support divisions.

Last, but certainly not least, participants will also engage in discussion around vocational development, university policy, transition planning, and partnerships with vocational rehabilitation services across institutions, and how we can share strategies and resources to best support the career and workforce readiness of all students.

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