May 25, 2004

Troy University to play host to leadership forum for students with disabilities

Troy University will play host to the Youth Leadership Forum for students with disabilities June 6-10 on the TROY Campus.

Around 30 students from area high schools will be participating in the four-day event, which is sponsored by the Troy Institute of Leadership Development and the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services.

Through a variety of activities, students learn that disabilities don't have to limit their success, said Dr. John Kline, the Director of the Institute for Leadership Development.

“One of our goals is to show kids that they can achieve things even with a disability,” Kline said. “The kids love coming here. Very few say they want to go home.”

More than 30 staff members, who will work with students throughout the event, will begin training on June 4. The students will be provided lodging at Cowart Hall on the TROY Campus.

“Some of these students have never been away from home before; this is a great opportunity for them to have new experiences,” Dr. Kline said. “There's going to be a swimming party, a talent show and on the next to last day we're going to visit the legislature in Montgomery and also meet with the Governor and the Lt. Governor.”