St. Cloud State University President Robbyn Wacker was among leaders and activists across the globe who participated in the 2022 Harkin International Disability Employment Summit on June 7-8 in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
The Summit, which was held in Belfast for the first time, annually highlights and addresses disability employment issues, showcases best practices and successes, and builds relationships and challenges for change. President Wacker and co-directors of SCSU’s Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy, Drs. Kathy Johnson and Amy Knopf, discussed how to positively reframe the narrative on how we approach, support and enable people with disabilities to achieve their career goals and aspirations.
During the Summit, President Wacker participated in a Fireside Chat with former United States Senator Tom Harkin, who founded the Harkin Institute for Public Policy & Citizen Engagement and convened an annual Summit since 2016. Their discussion focused on the role of higher education in advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
During the chat, President Wacker spotlighted the ways St. Cloud State is committed to accessibility and inclusion. She discussed St. Cloud State’s innovative programming for students with disabilities that promotes employment and independent living. Our new Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy was also the focus of conversation, spotlighting its innovative programs for international students with disabilities, and strategies for partnering with local, regional and international organizations.
Following the chat, President Wacker signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with strategic partners Sorenson Communications, Purple, and the Harkin Institute.
