Path to Independence

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United States
Reno, NV
Path to Independence

Inclusive certificate program for students with IDD focusing on Independent Living, Employment, and Academics.

Path to Independence (formerly Think College Nevada) is a project of the Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED) at the University of Nevada Reno. Originally funded through a mini-grant from the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Boston, the NCED led Nevada stakeholders in strategic planning to create increased postsecondary ed opportunities for students with IDD. The first student started in a pilot project at UNR in August 2013.

05/16/2026

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05/15/2026

Today, we celebrate the incredible accomplishments of the Path to Independence Class of 2026! We are so proud of each graduate and all they have achieved through their hard work, determination, and growth throughout this journey. Your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you accomplish next. Congratulations, graduates! 💙🎓

05/07/2026

Congratulations to our Assistant Director, Dr. Ryah McKay, Ph.D. on receiving the Outstanding Administrative Faculty Award from the !

As Assistant Director for Path to Independence, Dr. McKay oversees employment support services, grant writing, and key program initiatives that make a lasting impact on our students. Over the past year, her leadership helped guide the Class of 2025 to an incredible 88% employment rate, while also advancing important research on employment outcomes in inclusive postsecondary education—all while completing her Ph.D.

Beyond these accomplishments, Dr. McKay’s daily support, compassion, and unwavering commitment to students help ensure our Center remains a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment where students can thrive.

Thank you, Dr. McKay, for your dedication, leadership, and the difference you make every day—we are so grateful to have you 💙

05/01/2026

Happy . Today, we celebrate Inclusive Postsecondary Education and the power of making college accessible for students with intellectual disabilities. Together, we’re building a future where every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in college.💙
Share your support, a student story, or your program to help spread the message that college is possible for everyone.🐺
Don’t forget to tag and
UNRCoEHD
Slide 1: Path to Independence students graduating in May 2025
Slide 2: P2I students and Academic Coordinator, Brie

04/09/2026

Today is Giving Day! 🐺💙 Every gift to P2I helps create real opportunities for students. Join the Wolf Pack and make your impact today. Donate using the link in our bio!

Photo Description: Students in the P2I program posing for Giving Day.

04/08/2026

Giving Day is tomorrow! 🐺💙 One day to make a real impact. When you support P2I, you’re helping students gain independence, build skills, and create meaningful futures. Use the link in our bio to donate to Path to Independence!

Photo Description: P2I student poses with a University of Nevada Wolf Pack sign

04/07/2026

Just 2 days until Giving Day! 💙 Together, we can make a difference for Path to Independence. Give today using the link in our bio!

Photo Description: P2I students and staff posing with a Giving Day 2026 sign.

04/06/2026

Demand for Path to Independence is growing faster than ever, with a 100% increase in applications and a waitlist for the first time. 💙 Your support on Giving Day helps us expand opportunities so every student ready to join has the chance to succeed. Give today and be part of something life-changing!

Photo Description: P2I graduate, Simran

04/03/2026

Mark your calendar for April 9! Giving Day: The Wolf Pack Way is back! During this 24-hour celebration of generosity, our Pack comes together to support the students, faculty, and programs that make the University of Nevada, Reno extraordinary. Your gift will directly impact the students of the Path to Independence program. Every donation makes a difference! 💙🤍

Image Description: 2nd year P2I student, Faye

04/01/2026

Giving Day 2026 is only 8 days away! Your support creates meaningful opportunities for P2I students to build confidence and reach their goals. It helps shape lasting success and meaningful connections in our community. Use the link in our bio titled “Donate Now to Support P2I Students” to make an impact! 💙🐺

Image Description: Three P2I students showing their Wolf Pack spirit!

03/23/2026

We are proud that all of our staff and student workers are Adult CPR & First Aid certified through ProTrainings. Thanks to REMSA’s generous donation, our team continues to build hands-on, life-saving skills and stay prepared to support our community when it matters most.💙

Slide 1 Photo Description: Two P2I students smile while holding a CPR manikin.
Slide 2 Photo Description: P2I Staff members pose with CPR manikins.

Address

1664 N Virginia Street
Reno, NV

Telephone

775-682-9057

Website

https://catalog.unr.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=58&poid=245353

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