STILLWATER OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE / 40
Opportunity Orange Scholars
BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND CONNECTIONS
From cooking and baking to health services and social media management, there truly is something for every interest.
Opportunity Orange Scholars is a comprehensive transition program for young adults between the ages of 18 and 26 with intellectual disabilities who want to further their education in a college campus setting. Students admitted into the OOS program can pursue a two-year academic certification in Career and Community Studies in the field of their choosing. Opportunity Orange Scholars is designated by the U. S. Department of Education as a Post-Secondary education program. Graduates of OOS earn a university recognized certificate as reflected on their official OSU Transcript.
The four-semester OOS certificate program includes enrollment in a minimum of 48 credit hours of programspecific and inclusive university courses, on-campus living in student housing, completion of internships and engagement in campus and community activities. OOS students will receive the full OSU experience, as they live and learn on campus. This specialized program helps build confidence and provides a safe space for interdependent living while encouraging connections with other students attending OSU.
Through completion of all program requirements, students gain the knowledge, experience, and life skills for full-time employment and independence. OOS students build meaningful relationships with peers and community members through participation in activities and organizations such as clubs, theatre, and Pete ' s Pet Posse. Internships have included Eskimo Joe ' s and Wooden Nickle. Opportunity Orange Scholars provides a college path for students who currently have no option of attending college in Oklahoma due to a lack of programs available to meet or support their needs.
Opportunity Orange Scholars has some wonderful partnerships that make this unique college experience possible. Lead Learn Live is a nonprofit organization that partners with institutions of higher education to begin post-secondary education programs for students with intellectual / developmental disabilities in Oklahoma. The Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma helps families and individuals connect to information when learning about a disability. Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services offers students with disabilities who are eligible a variety of job-related services through the Transition program. The Center for Developmental Disabilities works alongside individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families to enhance quality of life for all.
The OSU Foundation is the private fundraising organization for Oklahoma State University, as designated by the OSU Board of Regents. Their mission is to unite donor and university passions and priorities to achieve excellence, and exist solely for the benefit of OSU. If you are interested in making a donation to Opportunity Orange Scholars to help fund scholarships, textbooks, or living expenses please visit OSUgiving. com
From cooking and baking to health services and social media management, there truly is something for every interest. Follow OOS on social media to get a glimpse into the daily life of an Opportunity Orange Scholar. SwOk
Opportunity Orange Scholars Program Coordinator Chloe Cavins, pictured with Kiwanis Treasurer Terry Wheeler, gave a presentation to Kiwanis Civic Club. PHOTO by JENNIFER JALBERT
Opportunity Orange Scholars students in the kitchen / PHOTO Provided
Opportunity Orange Scholars graduates / PHOTO Provided
STILLWATER OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE / 40