Atlanta Journal Constitution took an in-depth look at the program, its students and accomplishments. Saturday, April 27, seven Georgia Tech students will be the first in the EXCEL (Expanding Career, Education and Leadership Opportunities) program to graduate.
The EXCEL program is a four-year college program under Scheller College of Business’s Institute for Leadership and Entrepreneurship (ILE) for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Georgia Tech is one of the few programs in the nation to offer a four year program. The program is one of nine programs offered at universities around the state.
In the April ceremony this year’s class will be the first to complete four years and receive a Certificate in Social Growth, Leadership, and Career Development. The students will also be recognized at Georgia Tech’s formal graduation ceremony May 4.
The EXCEL program offers two two-year Certificates, one in Academic Enrichment, Social Fluency and Career Exploration awarded midway through the program, and the second awarded at the completion of all of the requirements for the four year program... Completing the program requires dedication and determination from its students, who audit regular Tech classes, participate in extra-curricula activities, develop social networks, and complete seven internships in preparation for career success.
The seven members of the EXCEL 2019 class have already began their futures with job placements, independent housing, and personal success they have achieved through EXCEL and their own hard work. The first class includes Carrie Rose Crayton, Alexandra (Alex) Goodman, Rashad Isaac, Natalie Jackson, Faith Roman, Frankie Sanders, and Kurt Vogel. Congratulations!