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Generating knowledge to support the independence and inclusion of people with
intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in all aspects of community life

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Disability Exchange (DX) Podcast

The DX podcast is produced and presented by Iowa's University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (Iowa’s UCEDD) at the Center for Disabilities and Development. Join UCEDD staff and podcast co-hosts—Mike Hoenig, Laury Scheidler, and Judy Warth—for the series.

More Information

UCEDD Spotlight

New UCEDD Director

Caitlin Owens - portrait photo with plaid shirt

I’m excited to announce that Caitlin Owens, MSW, has been named the new Director of the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities at CDD. Since 2020, Caitlin has served as the Associate UCEDD Director, bringing a wealth of experience in program development, grant writing, and policy work, all driven by her dedication to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. She has led efforts to procure over $8.2 million in additional competitive grant funding and strengthened the UCEDD’s ability to deliver impactful programs. Caitlin’s servant leadership, strategic vision, and focus on collaboration have been instrumental in advancing the UCEDD's mission. Her expertise and commitment make her an excellent fit for this role, and I’m confident she’ll continue to lead the UCEDD toward even greater success.

Please join me in congratulating Caitlin!

Karen M. Hammar, MHA, MOT, OTR/L, FACHE

The Time to be Awesome is NOW!

Thirteen youth and young adults, ranging in age from 14 to 21, recently graduated from Iowa’s Youth Leadership Academy (YLA). Meeting virtually, the trainees spent a week developing leadership, communication, and networking skills to use as they advocate for themselves, and for others in their communities.

Program coordinator Mike Hoenig and self-advocacy coordinator Ed Esbeck led participants through the training again this year.

The graduation ceremony took place at the State
Historical Society Museum and virtually. Graduates received diplomas and wore t-shirts that said, "THE TIME TO BE AWESOME IS NOW.”