The National Institute on Disability Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) selected College of Education Associate Professor of special education, Anthony Plotner, Ph.D., as a recipient of the Distinguished Switzer Research Fellowship. The Distinguished Switzer Research Fellowship is awarded to accomplished researchers to support their work as it relates to independent living and rehabilitation for people with disabilities. The fellowship is awarded to only three recipients annually and focuses on three major research categories: community living and participation, health and function, and employment. 

  

As a Switzer Research Fellow, Plotner will continue his research on the collaboration of schools and Centers for Independent Living to help young adults with disabilities maximize their post-school potential. His project, "Centers for Independent Living and Transition Collaboration: Examining Roles, Communication, and Collaborative Structure to Enhance Youth Outcomes," utilizes a variety of research methodologies to contribute to an increased understanding how these two systems work together. His research will ultimately improve the ways in which independent living-related services reach and impact young people with disabilities.  

 

Plotner explains, "We know that there is tremendous potential in how public funds are leveraged between schools and Centers for Independent Living to support students with disabilities in transition. What we don't know much about, however, is the nature of that relationship—which is critical to maximizing its potential benefit for students. I'm honored for the opportunity this Switzer Research Fellowship has provided me to contribute as a scholar in this domain." 

 

NIDILRR’s mission is to increase the knowledge needed to improve the lives of those living with disabilities. The organization supports research that expands opportunities in society for its citizens with disabilities.