PULASKI, Tenn. — Educators, families and community partners from across the region gathered at the for a day focused on strengthening support systems for individuals with disabilities in rural communities on March 24.
The Rural Disability Resource Network Rural Disability Mini-Conference brought together campus and community stakeholders for a half-day of learning, connection and practical strategy sharing. The event highlighted ’s role as a convener for regional impact, linking education, workforce readiness and community-based support.
The Rural Disability Resource Network, a UT System–wide collaboration, is focused on increasing awareness of and access to services for families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in rural Tennessee. The network brings together partners across multiple UT campuses, state agencies and nonprofit organizations to better connect resources, identify gaps and develop solutions that support long-term success.
The conference featured a keynote from disability advocate Madelyn “Midge” Smith, who shared insights on building stronger, more inclusive communities through collaboration and authentic partnership. Smith, who leads community and partnerships for the Wable app, emphasized the importance of visibility, connection and sustained advocacy in rural spaces.
Attendees participated in breakout sessions led by state and regional experts, covering topics including dyslexia and structured literacy, multi-tiered systems of support and behavior strategies, postsecondary transition, family engagement and community-based programming. Sessions focused on evidence-based approaches designed to equip educators and families with tools they can immediately apply.
In addition to professional development, the conference created opportunities for direct connection with organizations providing critical disability resources across Tennessee. Supported in part by the Grand Challenges Grant Program, the network is also working to expand access to information, develop distributable resource materials and host additional workshops to support families as students transition into adulthood.
The day’s focus on connection and access continued into the evening with ’s annual F.I.R.E. Resource Fair, held at the Curry Athletic Center. The event featured more than 40 agencies and organizations offering services, support and career opportunities for students across disciplines. Together, the conference and resource fair reinforced ’s commitment to building stronger communities, expanding access to opportunity and supporting individuals and families across southern Middle Tennessee.
