Dr. Chrisann Schiro-Geist Addresses United Nations on Inclusive Higher Education

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Dr. Chrisann Schiro-Geist, Director of the University of Memphis Institute on Disability (UMID) and Professor of Rehabilitation Counseling, recently addressed a global audience at the United Nations in New York City, speaking on the importance of inclusive higher education for students with intellectual disabilities.

Schiro-Geist was invited to present at a side event during the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18). Her remarks centered on the growing international movement to provide postsecondary opportunities for neurodivergent students and the need to treat individuals with disabilities as peers and equals on university campuses.

“Inclusive higher education isn’t special education at the college level,” said Dr. Schiro-Geist during her address. “It’s about treating students with intellectual disabilities as equals, empowering them to build job skills, social independence and pursue meaningful lives beyond campus.”

She spotlighted TigerLIFE, UMID’s inclusive higher education program, which prepares students through academic support, social integration, job training and a growing residential component. With over 300 graduates and a 70 percent competitive employment rate, TigerLIFE far exceeds national averages for postsecondary success among neurodivergent students.

Schiro-Geist also called for greater investment in wraparound services, standardized inclusive curricula and expanded support from universities worldwide. The TigerLIFE model is part of a broader network of programs across the U.S. recognized as Comprehensive Transition Programs (CTPs) by the Department of Education. From just 25 programs in 2004, the number has grown to over 300 institutions nationwide, including eight in Tennessee alone.

“We must move beyond the idea of segregation through special education,” Schiro-Geist told the international body. “This is the next step—one that leads to true independence and equity.”

“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Schiro-Geist and the global impact of her work,” said Dean Michael W. Miller. “This address reflects the University of Memphis College of Education’s leadership in inclusive higher education and our commitment to transforming lives through research, innovation and opportunity.”