Center On Disability And Development Connects Residents With Resources

A photo of attendees at a conference visiting with vendors at tables. — A record number of vendors and attendees participated in the annual Brazos Valley Disability Conference and Resource Fair last month at Central Church in College Station.
Texas A&M University School of Education and Human Development

Texas A&M University’s Center on Disability and Development (CDD) in the School of Education and Human Development recently hosted the annual Brazos Valley Disability Conference and Resource Fair, providing families with access to disability-related services, presentations, resources and community organizations.

“We wanted to walk alongside people with disabilities, their family members and those who support them,” said Dr. Meagan Orsag, co-director for the CDD. She encourages everyone in the community within the disability field to share with local families so they can “start to grow their toolbox of who is in their circle of support in the Brazos Valley.”

Established in 2016, this year’s event was the most successful to date, with more than 60 vendors, 10 speakers and record attendance. The conference concluded with a demonstration of beep baseball — a form of baseball utilizing a beeping ball and buzzing bases for visually impaired athletes — from the BCS Outlaws.

“It’s really easy to connect with vendors and other people trying to promote health and different programs for the disabled and people who are uninsured,” said Christal Garcia ’25, Health for All and Latino Medical Student Association volunteer.

The breakout sessions included several conference partners from the Bryan and College Station school districts, Texas A&M doctoral students, agency representatives and community organizations. Attendees were able to learn about resources in education and financial planning as well as how to prepare for the job market.

“Before the conference started happening in College Station a few years ago, there weren’t a lot of resources and you didn’t know where to turn to for help,” said Kyle Cox, event attendee. He and his mother, Kristen Cox, agreed the conference offered networking opportunities and a space to share interests. “It’s great to have everything here and learn what’s new and what’s out there either for yourself or to help others,” Kristen Cox said.

The Center on Disability and Development strives to improve lifelong opportunities for people with disabilities, their families and the community through a range of research, education and services. Learn more at tx.ag/SEHDCDD.