PhotoVoice Project Virtual Gallery

Biography: I support and empower people with Autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities at STARability Foundation, embracing inclusion, cultural diversity, and belonging.

Photo Statement: This photo captures inclusion in action. Through my work at STARability Foundation, I support individuals ages 14 to 55 with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Their resilience, talents, and unique perspectives have inspired my commitment to advocating for accessibility, equity, and belonging. My future goal is to continue building communities where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and thrive.

Biography: I speak English primarily with limited Spanish-speaking skills, and I identify with/ work with individuals with disabilities of all ages.

Photo Statement: Teaching skills in the gym builds physical strength, core motor skills, and daily stamina needed to manage household tasks and live independently in the future. It also supports long-term wellness, helps build routines, reduces stress, and can help prevent injury. 

Biography: I am a member of the Arts Access team at The Naples Players Theatre in Florida.

Photo Statement: I get to see every day how the power of Theatre helps students build communication skills as they transition from high school to college, continuing education, or the workforce. Some of these students have been able to acquire jobs here at the theater, working part-time in one of our departments. I see them apply what they’ve learned here at the theater, and the relationships and friendships that they have built help them succeed. The parents also see how proud their students are of their success.

Biography: I’m Anabel, 18, from Dallas, Texas, and an EMPOWER student. I love singing and watching musicals, especially Six and Little Shop.

Photo Statement: I chose this photo because it shows how I became interested in sports and how they help me feel part of the community at the U of A. Being involved is important to me because I can cheer on my team, and it makes me feel included while having a disability. Going to games helps me find my way around by myself. My future dreams are to get back into volleyball and maybe pursue a hospitality or culinary degree. The picture represents my interest in athletics and my desire to be involved in campus life. 

Biography: Hi! I’m Zach Miller, an EMPOWER student from Texas. I’m almost 19 and have family roots in West Virginia and Texas.

Photo Statement: I chose this photo because when I toured the University of Arkansas, the library felt like a happy place where I could study and spend time with friends. The library is important to my EMPOWER journey because my friends and I take night walks there, talk about our weeks, and ask how classes are going. It shows my growth by helping me become more independent, follow a schedule, set alarms, and get to class on time. My goals are to build good study habits, manage my time, review my notes, and keep spending time with friends at the library.

Biography: Dr. Rebekka Jez, Chair of the Division of Career Development and Transition’s Human Rights and Diversity Committee (HRDC), Associate Professor at the University of San Diego.

Photo Statement: This is the sticker we created for the HRDC. It represents our values, aims, and mission. We used the colors of the diversity flag and chose words that represent our fight for the dignity, hope, and dreams of youth with disabilities, their families/caregivers, and those who support them in visible and invisible ways each day. We are committed to supporting our community in living their best life. 

Biography: Craig Price, HRDC Committee Member, Director of Community Enrichment at The Naples Players.

Photo Statement: This is a photo of one of the productions at The Naples Players. “At The Naples Players, we build community through exceptional access to the power of theatre. The Naples Players is known for its deep community impact and consistent excellence, earning national recognition and major awards for its accessible programs, high-quality productions, and innovative partnerships that reach tens of thousands of people each year.”

Biography: I am an associate professor of special education at Iowa State University. My family and I live in Ames with one tiny dog.

Photo Statement: As a professor, I have high standards for my pre-service teachers. Because of these standards, my students do not always appreciate my “demands.” It’s really encouraging when some students take time to show appreciation. A little encouragement goes a long way! 

Biography: I have had the privilege of working with transition students for 10 years, teaching communication skills through improvisational theater games.

Photo Statement: These students spent the summer learning work skills out in the community. In my classes, we played fun, interactive improv games that taught us communication skills we could use in those environments. Listening, accepting, supporting, taking risks, and learning new skills help students feel more comfortable in the community when interviewing for jobs.

Biography: Hi! I’m Isaiah Hansen, 20, from Celina, Texas. I’m in the EMPOWER Program, love animals, and have autism and ADHD.

Photo Statement: This was the first place I went when I got to the school, and it was where it finally felt real that I was a college student. Being a college student is an important part of my journey because it will help me work toward my dream job. In the future, I hope to work with animals and become either a zookeeper or a vet tech.

Biography: My name is Jennifer Bates, and I am 21 years old. I sell my artwork and create new ideas.

Photo Statement: My dream is to sell my paintings and create ideas people will love, remember, and enjoy.

Biography: Hi! I’m Zach Estes, a 19-year-old EMPOWER student from Fayetteville, Arkansas. I enjoy spending time with friends and going out to eat.

Photo Statement: I chose this photo at the Union because I love hanging out there. I can spend time with my friends, relax, and study there. The Union is important to my EMPOWER journey because it helps me feel more involved on campus and gives me a place where I feel comfortable. Going to the Union also helps me become more independent because I can go there on my own. This photo represents my college experience and how I enjoy spending time with friends while also working toward my goals.