CT LEND Cohort 2025-2026 Trainees' inspiring summation of their LEND experience.
The University of Connecticut Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities (CT LEND) program is a one-year interdisciplinary leadership training program for persons with disabilities, family members, practicing professionals and graduate students at UConn and other Connecticut universities.
CT LEND is one of 60 LEND programs across the country that focus on training future leaders from a wide variety of professional disciplines to improve quality of life outcomes for children, youth, and adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities, including autism.
The training program requires the completion of coursework, research studies, advocacy projects, and community practicum assignments with infants, children, and youth with developmental disabilities.
LEND Seminar 2
The Connecticut LEND Seminar 2 on September 11, 2026, focuses on MCH Foundations: Family-Centered Practice, Cultural Humility, and the Social Work discipline perspective. The seminar will explore the challenges faced by families of children, youth, and adults with disabilities and emphasize strategies for developing strong, trusting partnerships between families and professionals. Participants will learn why family quality of life is important to individual outcomes and examine the key elements of cultural humility, including how cultural differences and personal biases can influence interactions with children and families. The seminar will also provide resources to increase cultural awareness and introduce the important role that social workers play in supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. Presenters: Ann Turnbull, PhD, and Cristina Wilson, PhD.
