With the addition of the Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) designation, the THRIVE program at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) is poised to open its doors to even more students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program, which began in 2010, offers students a unique and supportive college experience designed to foster greater independence, employment opportunities, and personal growth. One of the key benefits of the CTP designation is that it allows eligible students to access Pell Grants, which can be a significant financial aid option for students from low-income backgrounds. The expansion of THRIVE into a CTP program was not a straightforward process. It began with a conversation with parents of students who were already enrolled in the program. The parents expressed a desire to see their children transition from the program to independent living arrangements, such as apartments, to ease the transition back home. This feedback sparked the idea of a third and fourth year, with programming tailored to build on students’ earlier experiences while moving them toward greater independence. To validate the vision and secure funding, the THRIVE team worked with colleagues across campus and with the guidance of emeriti faculty member Joyce Downing, Ph.D. In March, they received approval from the U.S. Department of Education, retroactive to the beginning of the spring 2025 semester. The expansion of THRIVE into a CTP program has significant implications for students and families. For many students, the confidence gained through THRIVE is the real milestone. For example, one student was thrilled to be able to pay her own bills and live in her own apartment, a testament to the program’s success in fostering independence. THRIVE students also engage deeply with campus life, participating in rec league softball teams, healthy living classes, and building relationships with UCM students training to become speech pathologists, special education teachers, and counselors. The program is not just a stepping stone; it’s embedded in UCM life, with students seamlessly integrating into the broader university community. The next milestone for THRIVE is accreditation through Think College, the national accrediting body for transition programs. This would provide families with an additional layer of assurance that the program is delivering the best possible experience for their students. At the heart of THRIVE is the concept of choice. Families have real options when it comes to higher education, and UCM is one of the few institutions that can offer a smaller university experience with strong support and integration. As Tony Lubbers, director of the Office of Student Financial Services, said, “This is big. The four-year CTP approval means eligible students can now access Pell Grants, even if they’re not degree-seeking.”
The expansion of THRIVE into a CTP program is a testament to the university’s commitment to providing a welcoming campus environment for students of all backgrounds and supporting their success. For more information about THRIVE, including admissions and program details, visit ucmo.edu/thrive or follow UCM THRIVE on Facebook.
| Benefits of the CTP Designation |
|---|
| Access to Pell Grants for eligible students |
| Enhanced financial aid options |
| Increased support for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities |
- Increased participation in campus life
- Opportunities for internships and career-specific coursework
- Apartment-style living arrangements for students
Success Stories
- One student was thrilled to be able to pay her own bills and live in her own apartment, demonstrating the program’s success in fostering independence.
- Another student bought a new car, highlighting the program’s impact on students’ daily lives.
Embedding THRIVE into UCM Life
THRIVE students engage deeply with campus life, participating in rec league softball teams, healthy living classes, and building relationships with UCM students training to become speech pathologists, special education teachers, and counselors.
The program is not just a stepping stone; it’s embedded in UCM life, with students seamlessly integrating into the broader university community.
Accreditation and the Future of THRIVE
The next milestone for THRIVE is accreditation through Think College, the national accrediting body for transition programs.
This would provide families with an additional layer of assurance that the program is delivering the best possible experience for their students.
The Heart of THRIVE
At the heart of THRIVE is the concept of choice.
Families have real options when it comes to higher education, and UCM is one of the few institutions that can offer a smaller university experience with strong support and integration.
“When we started, we got over 50 applications for 12 spots. Now, with other Missouri programs also emerging, families have real choices.
