About AHEAD in Texas

We are the resource for Disability Services professionals and provide many opportunities for professional growth for its membership. AHEAD in Texas provides leadership, development and networking for professionals working with students with disabilities at higher education institutions across Texas. Follow us on LinkedIn for updates, engagement, and to connect with other members of the AHEAD in Texas community!

Learn more about AHEAD in Texas

• Learn more about membership levels
• AHEAD in Texas organization and leadership
• Professional development opportunities: Conferences, webinars, monthly lunch and learn sessions, resources, networking, DS list serve for members, and support.

SPRING 2025 CONFERENCE

AHEAD in Texas -Building Bridges and Breaking Barriers

March 31 – April 2, 2025

El Paso was our host city, and the conference was on the campus of University of Texas at El Paso – UTEP campus.

AHEAD in Texas focuses on fostering collaboration, connection, and understanding across higher education to support students with disabilities.  As Disability Services professionals, we continue to bridge gaps—not only between Disability Services and faculty/staff—but also between students’ expectations and the realities of transitioning to college. We are so glad to have you all join us this year to connect with fellow professionals and refine our practices to stay ahead of the changing needs of our diverse student population.

AHEAD in Texas Scholarship Spotlight

• Emily Klingen, AHEAD in Texas Scholarship recipient for 2025

Anticipated Graduation Date: Summer 2026

Major: Psychology

Emily is employed with the Blinn College Office of Disability Services as a Testing Specialist. Emily says the goal is to become a clinical psychologist to support individuals navigating emotional, mental health, and developmental challenges. Emily is currently working on graduate school applications to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology after graduating from Texas A&M University in Summer 2026 with a major in Psychology. Emily expressed being incredibly grateful to be receiving the AHEAD in Texas Scholarship as well as the generous support and investment in future goals. 

Congratulations Emily on receiving the 2025 AHEAD in Texas scholarship!

• Kathryn Adkins, AHEAD in Texas Scholarship recipient for 2025

Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2027

Major: Osteopathic Medicine

Since 2017, Kathryn has been volunteering at Cook Children’s Medical Center, and each patient interaction continues to fuel the passion for medicine. As a future pediatric neuro-oncologist, Kathyrn reported their greatest goal is to improve the quality of life for children battling brain cancer and to support their families through some of their most difficult moments. Kathyrn realized that there’s no need to wait until finishing school to make a meaningful impact in the community. When not studying, Kathryn spend time delivering PrayerBears to patients and their families as a reminder that they are not alone, leading lessons and camps to encourage healthy habits in children, inspiring students to consider careers in medicine, and providing care to under served populations. Kathyrn hopes to continue serving with compassion, advancing research, and being a source of hope and healing for the families being served.

Congratulations Kathryn on receiving the 2025 AHEAD in Texas scholarship!

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