CELEBRATING
Integrated Studies
By : Deb O ' Reilly and Lauren Yancer
GMercyU ’ s Integrated Studies program , launched in 2020 , has celebrated many milestones this year .
AAUA Exemplary Higher Education Model Award In June 2022 , GMercyU ’ s Integrated Studies Program was awarded the AAUA Exemplary Higher Education Model Award at the American Association of University Administrators ( AAUA ) Leading , Managing and Teach : Exceptional Programs that Inspire Conference .
What sets GMercyU ’ s Integrated Studies program apart from similar programs is faculty and staff focus on students ’ strengths within a fully inclusive environment . The program creates opportunities in which students can build on their strengths and harness leadership skills that lead to competitive employment . Students with intellectual disabilities are valued and welcomed on campus .
12 TODAY
Sebastian DeSimone Inspires Change In December 2022 , first-year Integrated Studies student Sebastian DeSimone was featured on Good Morning America 3 for his role in ensuring students with intellectual disabilities nationwide can compete in NCAA Division III athletics .
“ I wanted to join the [ Track & Field ] team at Gwynedd because I wanted to keep on running and see where it would lead me ,” Sebastian told GMA3 . “ I tell myself that you can do it , believe that you can . Before a race , I tell myself that it ’ s great to be here .”
When searching for colleges to attend , Sebastian knew he wanted to continue running . At the time , students in non-degree seeking
In May 2023 , Jasmine Hall was the first Integrated Studies student to complete the program and earn her certificate !
Photo courtesy of The Philadelphia Inquirer
programs , such as Integrated Studies , were unable to participate in NCAA collegiate-level sports .
With the help of his parents , GMercyU ’ s Integrated Studies former Program Director Ariana Amaya , and Director of Athletics Keith Mondillo , Sebastian successfully obtained a waiver allowing him to run on GMercyU ’ s Track & Field and Cross Country teams .
Sebastian ’ s dedication and perseverance during the process led the NCAA Subcommittee for Legislative Relief to approve a change making it easier for students with