RISE at Westmoreland: Inclusive Pathways to College, Career and Independence
November 6, 2025Westmoreland’s RISE program opens college doors for individuals with intellectual disabilities by offering fully inclusive coursework, academic coaching support and rich engagement in student life.
“As an inclusive postsecondary education initiative, RISE provides supported pathways for students with intellectual disabilities to earn a college credential and seamlessly transition into sustainable employment and independent living,” said Dr. McKenna Killion, RISE coordinator.
Historically, students with intellectual disabilities face a lack of opportunities and resources after graduating from high school, and adults with intellectual disabilities face higher unemployment rates and smaller social networks than their nondisabled peers. RISE aims to make college accessible for these students in order to immerse students in the rich social network of a college community, provide students with technical knowledge in their desired career field, and prepare students for competitive integrative employment.
Across the country, more than 350 colleges and universities offer inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs. In Pennsylvania, RISE is just the second IPSE program to be housed at a community college. Community colleges are uniquely prepared to welcome students with intellectual disabilities onto campus because of their student-centered approach and variety of resources available to all students.
Killion said that at Westmoreland, RISE students are fully included in the campus community. They take classes alongside their peers, receive individualized academic support and participate in clubs, activities and campus events—building skills, connections and confidence along the way.
RISE acknowledges that each student’s college journey is unique and success will look different for each student. A student’s time in the RISE program is driven by person-centered planning which allows the student to advocate for their dream life, set goals and identify their areas of strength.
This process is used to guide their college experience, including selecting courses, identifying work-based learning opportunities and participating in campus organizations.
Students in RISE complete a two-year Integrated Studies certificate.
“Students select a technical pathway in areas such as baking/pastry; culinary arts; early childhood education; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; office administration; or plumbing that guides their academic curriculum,” Killion said. “Students also participate in personal development courses focused on career readiness and general education courses to broaden their knowledge.”
To help students succeed at Westmoreland, RISE provides individualized academic support that meets students where they are in their academic journey.
This includes weekly academic coaching for planning, organization and skill-building; tutoring to reinforce course concepts; a structured study lounge that creates a consistent, supportive environment for learning; and peer mentors to support students' academic and social participation on campus. RISE students also have access to all of Westmoreland’s student success services, ensuring a comprehensive support network from enrollment to graduation.
“Welcoming RISE students to campus has been transformative,” said Julie Greathouse, director of Westmoreland Student Success. “Their presence has shown us where we can strengthen our systems, clarify information, and improve how we support students across the board. Because of the work we do with RISE, we’re serving the entire student body more thoughtfully and effectively.”
The RISE program highlights the college’s commitment to strengthening communities through education.
“Through authentic college participation, students develop confidence, independence and a strong sense of belonging - key ingredients for success in college, at work and in the community,” Killion concluded.
Have questions about RISE or want to explore next steps? Email Dr. McKenna Killion at killionmFREEWESTMORELAND.