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The Institute for Community Inclusion at UMass Boston supports the rights of children and adults with disabilities to participate in all aspects of society. As practitioners, researchers, and teachers, we form partnerships with individuals, families, and service agencies. Together we advocate for personal choice, self-determination, and social and economic justice.
We are dedicated to advancing the full inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life. Our work encompasses research, program evaluation, training, consultation, education, policy analysis, and service delivery across four main areas of emphasis: Employment, Education, Community Life, and Health Care.
We have three national hubs: ExploreVR and ThinkWork, which focus on inclusive employment, and ThinkCollege, which focuses on inclusive higher education.
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Our projects involve conducting state and national employment research, increasing access to higher education, supporting children with disabilities to plan for a fulfilling future, and much more.
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From expert consultation and technical assistance to online training for employment professionals, our services help agency leaders and disability staff to excel and thrive in their work.
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Thanks Bill

Farewell to Outgoing Dean Bill Kiernan!

From L to R: David Temelini, Bill Kiernan, Sheila Fesko and Suzzanne Freeze

Dr. William E. Kiernan recently celebrated his retirement from his role as dean of the School for Global Inclusion and Social Development, the UMass Boston graduate school where the ICI is housed.

Since he joined the staff at Boston Children’s Hospital in 1972, Bill has been a leader in the area of ensuring full rights and self-determination for people with disabilities. Bill became the director of the ICI in 1993, and held that position until 2017.

In the director role, Bill led our institute to become a national and international innovator around inclusion of people with disabilities in all areas of society, with a special focus on competitive employment in the community.

Throughout Bill’s career, he has been a beacon for justice and equity for all vulnerable and excluded populations, especially those with disabilities. We will miss him, and are grateful for his many years of leadership.

Watch our tribute video to Bill, below.

Bill Kiernan