CT LEND

10/16/2026

Thank you to today’s presenters for LEND Seminar 7: Neurodevelopmental Risk and Resilience!
LEND Family Faculty member Laurie Cantwell discussed LEND trainee/ family matches, and Paula DeMichiel shared her family’s story, including experiences with her son, Danny.

This afternoon, we welcomed Dr. Rob Keder from Connecticut Children’s, who discussed child development and health and the role of a developmental and behavioral pediatrician.

We appreciate our presenters for sharing their knowledge, personal experiences, and perspectives with our LEND trainees!

10/15/2026

Tomorrow we welcome Dr. Keder from CT Children's Hospital! Our first family story will be shared by Paula DeMichiel.

10/14/2026

Congratulations to former CT LEND trainee Michael Wilby on being selected as a One Hundred Men of Color honoree for Community Engagement! This program honors 100 influential men of color from Connecticut and western Massachusetts for their leadership, professional achievements, and service to their communities.

We’re proud to celebrate Michael and his commitment to making a positive difference!

10/13/2026

Every child deserves the support they need to learn, grow, and belong. Families deserve to be heard and included as partners in their child’s education.

This Hartford Courant headline highlights Connecticut moms organizing after struggling to access special education services. Their voices remind us why family advocacy matters—and why timely services and strong partnerships between families and schools are essential.

Read more: https://www.courant.com/2026/10/13/fed-up-after-struggling-to-get-services-ct-moms-organize-for-special-education/

“The parents are out here working because you guys aren’t doing what you’re supposed to do at the state level,” LaMay said.

10/08/2026

CT LEND Trainees Engaging in Advocacy and Civic Leadership!
Yesterday, our CT LEND trainees had the opportunity to attend the 2026 Nonpartisan Candidates Forum, joining Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, Governor Ned Lamont, Attorney General William Tong, and Congresswoman Jahana Hayes.

Throughout the forum, trainees listened to candidates share their perspectives on important issues impacting individuals with disabilities and their families.

This was a valuable opportunity for our future leaders to learn, engage, and better understand the importance of disability advocacy, public policy, and civic participation! Association of University Centers on Disabilities

10/08/2026

You Are Not Invisible! Policymakers say people who aren't in data are invisible... You are not invisible! Share your story.

2026 National Survey on Disability (NSHD) kuhealthsurvey.org Phone: 1 855 556 6328 Email: [email protected] The University of Kansas Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies

10/06/2026

TOMORROW! Candidates Forum!
Join us for the Shaping the Future of Disability Rights 2026 Non-Partisan Candidates Forum!
Come hear directly from candidates running in the upcoming election and learn about their views, priorities, and commitment to supporting people with disabilities, their families, and our communities.
We hope to see you there!

10/05/2026

We are excited to celebrate Jasmine Carby, CT LEND Trainee, on being selected as a 2026–2027 Joan Segal Scholar!

The Joan Segal Scholarship recognizes deserving students and provides tuition support to help them pursue their graduate education in public health.

Congratulations, Jasmine, on this well-deserved recognition! We are proud to have you as part of the CT LEND community and look forward to all you will accomplish!

10/02/2026

Today’s seminar focused on IDEA, FAPE, and other important laws that impact individuals with disabilities. We were pleased to welcome LEND Guest Faculty David Bateman, PhD, who shared his expertise with our trainees.

Our students also participated in reading groups, engaging in thoughtful discussions, and exploring key issues related to disability rights, education, and the law.