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Institute for Human Development

Changing the way you experience the world

Access | Attitude | Inclusion

Our Work:

Impacts people at all life stages – individually and socially
Facilitates research and programming to inform change that positively impacts individuals with disabilities

Vision: People with disabilities fully participate in all life experiences.

Mission: Promote full inclusion by advancing attitudes that value persons with disabilities while enhancing access to all aspects of the human experience.

IHD fosters the development of attitudes that promote the increased inclusion of individuals with disabilities in their communities. Attitudes, as barriers to or facilitators of inclusion, go hand-in-hand with access. Access, commonly thought of as access to services and supports, has a much broader meaning: while services are essential for inclusion, access also refers to access to information, education, inclusive physical environments, community participation, friendships, and relationships. Conceptually, access and attitude have reciprocal roles in promoting or inhibiting inclusion.

The toughest barriers faced by people with disabilities are not architectural, they are attitudinal. They are not in the environment, they are in our hearts and in our minds. When people with disabilities are integrated throughout our communities, we are given the opportunity to change our attitudes from ones based on stereotypes, fear, and ignorance, to ones based on admiration, acceptance, and affection… We all gain from the opportunity to experience people with developmental disabilities as friends, as neighbors, as coworkers, as classmates.

Senator Tom Harkin

Explore our degrees

News and Articles of Interest

Amplifying Voices of Disability 2025:

A Powerful Day of Learning

On February 27, 2025, over 100 individuals from 14 states participated in IHD’s second annual Amplifying Voices of Disability Virtual Day of Learning—a dynamic event focused on timely, hot-button issues presented by disability activists and self-advocates.

This year’s program featured five engaging sessions covering a wide range of topics, including parenting with a disability, advocacy strategies, employment readiness training, and the role of service dogs. With a virtual format and accessible pricing, the event reached a broad audience—44% of participants came from rural areas, where access to training opportunities is often limited.

Many participants spoke highly of the conference, particularly the real-life perspectives shared:

“The topics were already very engaging, but the real-life experiences and approaches were incredible.”
“The advice was raw and real, stemming from lived experiences and thoughtful explanations on why these approaches could work.”
“I enjoyed the diversity of the sessions. Each speaker was engaging and human.”

By highlighting these diverse perspectives, the IHD team hopes to foster meaningful conversations and equip individuals with knowledge and tools to advocate for themselves and their communities. Stay tuned for details on next year’s event!

Click for more information about Amplifying Voices

New IHD Bridge Brief: Out-of-School STEM Learning Programs for Neurodiverse Youth

On October 11, an undergraduate student with a disability in IHD’s Supporting Inclusive Practices in Colleges (SIP-C) program went on an inclusive field trip with NAU faculty. Their destination was Hochderffer Hills, a scenic area in the Coconino National Forest outside of Flagstaff, where they conducted a drone flight to view the aspens at their peak fall color. Below are some observations on this field trip by the faculty and graduate student involved.

Out-of-school STEM learning programs—like summer camps, after-school clubs, and museum workshops—offer students hands-on learning experiences that spark interest and confidence in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). However, neurodiverse youth, including those with autism, dyslexia, and ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), often face barriers in traditional learning environments. A new IHD Bridge Brief explores strategies to make these programs more inclusive, ensuring all students can engage and thrive.

With support from the National Science Foundation, IHD researchers identified key strategies for success, including hands-on learning, flexible participation, student-led activities, and tailored accommodations. These approaches not only help neurodiverse youth feel more included but also empower them to explore STEM as a potential career path. Read the full article to discover practical recommendations for creating more accessible and engaging STEM learning experiences.

Bridge Brief

Supporting Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation: Success Stories from AIVRTTAC

For many American Indians with disabilities, finding meaningful employment can be challenging. Tribal vocational rehabilitation (TVR) projects provide culturally relevant support, training, and job placement services to help Tribal members with disabilities achieve financial independence while honoring their cultural identities.

When a TVR project director sought help from the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Training and Technical Assistance Center (AIVRTTAC), their program was struggling to connect participants with job opportunities. Through expert guidance, AIVRTTAC—housed at IHD—helped the project build partnerships with rural businesses, expand employment prospects, and enhance case management practices, creating a more supportive environment for participants to succeed.

This is just one example of AIVRTTAC’s impact. Serving 93 TVR projects in 26 states, AIVRTTAC provides customized training and technical assistance through webinars, in-person and virtual training, and on-site visits. By enhancing staff training, policy development, and community outreach, AIVRTTAC strengthens TVR projects—ensuring sustainable, meaningful employment opportunities for Tribal members with disabilities.

In partnership with IHD, the Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Institute at Northwest Indian College offers professional development courses to build TVR staff expertise. The Institute also awards a Bachelor of Arts in Community Advocates and Responsive Education (CARE) in Human Services, with a concentration in TVR.

By blending evidence-based strategies with cultural responsiveness, AIVRTTAC ensures that TVR projects are equipped to support career success while preserving Tribal traditions.

AIVRTTAC.org

Good News

Showcasing Disability Through Film

On February 10, Theatrikos in downtown Flagstaff hosted Creating Possibilities: Short Films by John Schaffer, a special event featuring works by the talented filmmaker and IHD disability studies instructor. Among the films showcased were two IHD-produced pieces, There is Always a Way and A Blind Man Walks into a Classroom, highlighting powerful stories of disability and resilience.

IHD Staff Attend Governor’s Speech

IHD Program Manager Nikkol Kramer Anderson and Assistant Director of Community Programs Sara Clancey attended the Arizona Disability Advocacy Coalition Day at the State Capitol on February 24. The event featured a speech from Governor Hobbs, addressing key disability issues in Arizona’s political landscape.

Global Reach: Disability Now Discussion Draws 8 Million Viewers

On February 25, IHD Professor Matthew Wangeman joined Jeff Preston (chair of disability studies at King’s University), Beth Haller (professor emeritus at Towson University), John Schaffer (IHD instructor and filmmaker), and other distinguished guests for an online discussion titled “Disability Now: How the Current Political and Social Environment Is Affecting People with Disabilities.” The event, hosted on Zoom, drew an astonishing 8 million viewers worldwide, underscoring the global significance of disability advocacy and awareness.

International Perspectives on Disability

This semester, an international student pursuing IHD’s disability studies minor is conducting an independent study comparing disability policies, perceptions, and services in China and the United States. Initial research has revealed vast differences in legal frameworks, cultural attitudes, and available support systems.

Welcoming Back Dr. Ronda Jenson

IHD is thrilled to welcome back Dr. Ronda Jenson following her one-year appointment as program director for the Workplace Equity for Persons with Disabilities in STEM and STEM Education and INCLUDES program at the National Science Foundation. Her expertise and leadership in disability research continue to be an invaluable asset to IHD.

Justice Armfield Returns for Fourth Semester as Co-Teacher

IHD is pleased to welcome back Justice Armfield for his fourth semester as a co-teacher in DIS 201: Introduction to Disability Studies. His co-instructor, John Schaffer, looks forward to witnessing Justice’s continued growth and the meaningful connections he fosters with students.

IHD Evidence for Success Disability Conference

June 23-24

Wild Horse Pass Resort, Chandler, AZ

June 23-24, 2025 – Main Conference
June 22, 2025 – Pre-Conference Workshops

Focused on today’s hottest topics in disability disciplines and assistive technology, our 2025 conference will build on all the conference traditions our participants have come to love:

Multiple tracks and diverse disability-related session options
Vibrant exhibit hall
Reasonable pricing
Door prizes, networking, and more!

But, as always, this year will feature exciting new topics, presenters, and programming too.

Conference Webpage

Institute for Human Development Northern Arizona University Report to the Community 2023-2024

Click to read IHD’s 2023-2024 Report to the Community annual report.

Click here to see past editions of the Institute for Human Development’s News and Updates

Parents, family members, or professionals in the field, do you need information on an AAC Evaluation? Go to the NAU AAC Evaluation Page for program and contact information.