Limitless! Conference Agenda

Join us at Bowling Green State University Firelands on Friday, March 14, 2025, for a full day of inspiring programming designed for Ohio’s inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) students and their supporters.

We are thrilled to welcome participants from five of Ohio’s leading IPSE programs as we come together for our inaugural Limitless! Conference:

• Bowling Green State University – Clark Inclusive Scholars Program (CISP)
• Cleveland State University – Reciprocal Inclusion Student Experience (RISE)
• Kent State University – Career and Community Studies (CCS)
• University of Toledo – Toledo Transition (T2)
• Youngstown State University – Transition Options in Postsecondary Settings (TOPS)

This conference is a celebration of inclusion, learning, and opportunity. Get ready for an unforgettable day of networking, empowerment, and discovery!

All events take place in the Cedar Point Center Auditorium (Room 1001)
9:00 am - 4:30 pm Resource Area and Challenges & Solutions Board
Room: 1017 Atrium near the piano and CPC entrance
Stop by anytime to learn more about Ohio’s IPSE colleges and universities and other organizations.

9:00 am-10:00 am
Room: 1017 Atrium Check-In
Come here to check in, pick up conference materials, name tags, and lunch tickets. Use this time to meet new people and broaden your network.

10:00-10:15 Conference Welcome
Room: 1001 A
Welcome comments and overview of the day’s events.

10:20-11:20 Session 1
Room: 1001 A1 A for Students
Speed Networking
Students get the day started by getting to know one another better.
Facilitators: Dr. Liz Laurer Coordinator, CISP at BGSU Firelands, students, and peer mentors.

Room: 1001 B1 B for Guests
From IDEA to ADA: A Road Less Traveled
Transitioning from high school to higher education or the workforce is a significant step for students with exceptional learning needs. Understanding the differences between IEP protections and the rights under ADA and Section 504 can empower young people and families in their decision-making process. We will also discuss the importance of self-advocacy.
Presenter: Dr. James Chapple Adjunct Professor Early Inclusive Childhood Education at BGSU Firelands

11:30-12:30 Session 2
Room: 1001 A2 A for Students
Nine Skills of Self-Determination and Supported Decision-Making
Together, we will go through each of the key self-determination skills to demonstrate how applying all nine together increases a person’s success. Additionally, discussions will cover how students and their support teams can work together to provide the best opportunities for students to apply self-determination skills.
Presenter: Dr. Vonnie Michali, Academic Director, CCS at Kent State University

Room: 1001 B2 B for Guests
Romance: Relationship Building and Consent
Learn more about how individuals with IDD might develop meaningful, personal connections with friends and, possibly, romantic partners. This presentation is intended for parents, guardians, and others who support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Presenter: Dr. Sarah Rainey-Smithback Director and Graduate, Coordinator Associate Professor, Department of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at BGSU

12:40-1:40 Lunch
Room: 1001 A
Use this time to relax and network over lunch, visit the Resource area, and contribute to the Challenges and Solutions Board.

1:50-2:50 Session 3
Room: 1001 A3 for All
Panel Discussion with Inclusive Program College Students
Inclusive college program students share their insights and answer audience questions.
Moderator: Alana Armstrong, CISP at BGSU Firelands
Panelists: CISP, RISE, CCS, T2, TOPS

3:00-4:00 Session 4
Room: 1001 A4 A for Students
Romance: Relationship Building and Consent
Learn more about how to develop meaningful, personal connections with friends and, possibly, romantic partners. This presentation is intended for young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Presenter: Dr. Sarah Rainey-Smithback Director and Graduate, Coordinator Associate Professor, Department of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at BGSU

Room: 1001 B4 B for Guests
Nine Skills of Self-Determination and Supported Decision-Making
Together, we will go through each of the key self-determination skills to demonstrate how applying all nine together increases a person’s success. Additionally, discussions will cover how students and their support teams can work together to provide the best opportunities for students to apply self-determination skills.
Presenter: Dr. Vonnie Michali, Academic Director, CCS at Kent State University

4:00-4:30 Conference Wrap Up
Room: 1001 A

The Clark Inclusive Scholars Program and Bowling Green State University Firelands are proud to be your host for the day and are thankful for your attendance. Safe Travels.

Regaistration is required and seating is limited please register early.

To our guests with disabilities, please indicate if you need special services, assistance or appropriate modifications to fully participate in this event by contacting Accessibility Services, access@bgsu.edu, 419-372-8495. Please notify us prior to the event.

Lunch for the Limitless Conference:

Baked Potato Bar
Chili
Cheese
Broccoli
Bacon Bits
Butter
Sour Cream
Fresh Fruit
Cookies and Desserts

Catered by Creative Cuisine, Sandusky, Ohio

Conference Beverages:

Lemonade
Iced Tea
Water