What is AbleLight College?

AbleLight College is one of many services AbleLight provides people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, striving to meet the needs of the whole person through their whole life. The program is an expansion of Bethesda College at Concordia University Wisconsin, a program that has been in place since 2014. In fall 2021, Wisconsin’s program experienced a record enrollment totally 21 students. Both programs will acquire the AbleLight name as Bethesda undergoes a brand revitalization and will change its name to AbleLight in January 2022.

Building bright futures

In the seven years since the Wisconsin program began, 37 students have completed the program. Upon the completion of the two-year program, students walk the commencement stage and receive a Certificate of Applied Learning. The college offers life and work skills training, and the students enjoy the opportunity to attend traditional Concordia University classes alongside other students. They live on campus in a dorm and commute to nearby employment opportunities. After graduation, students have been able to secure jobs in areas such as maintenance, restaurant work, travel agency support, day care or hospital worker, and office staff.

Our Program

Aiming for excellence

Our goal is to prepare students to take their place in the larger community as independent adults, as employed citizens living an integrated, purposeful life while contributing to their community. To accomplish this, we developed a sequence of formal instruction in four key areas:

Academics

Academics:

The program features CUAA class options according to each student’s goals. We offer support from advisors, peer mentors and tutors to help students feel confident at every step. Classes aim to expand general knowledge in a liberal arts format while growing students’ thinking and problem-solving skills.

Career Preparation

Career Preparation:

We prepare students for future employment through work experiences and internships. Our program provides individualized job coaching and group instruction, so students gain skills that help with meaningful employment and choosing a career.

Adult Living Skills

Adult Living Skills:

We offer group instruction and individualized practice in adult independent living skills, including: budgeting and money management; organization and time management; personal care; and independent home living.

Campus and Community Life

Campus and Community Life:

Students live on the CUAA campus in integrated residence halls alongside students without disabilities and enjoy full immersion in all aspects of campus life including sports, clubs, spiritual life activities and more. To create a successful experience, we offer students support through structured planning meetings, coaching, peer mentoring and seminars.

Interested in learning more?

Potential students and their families are invited to tour the CUAA campus and meet current students and faculty. Please contact Laura Stanley Pelzel, at laura.stanleypelzel@cuw.edu or call 262-243-2712 to set up a tour.

General inquiries

Email:  bethesda.college@cuw.edu
Phone: 262-243-2712

Direct contact

Angela Post - Director of Admissions
angela.post@bethesdaLC.org
734-995-7274

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