Tennessee Disability Coalition News Blog

Thanks to a great group of students, a dedicated staff, excellent presenters and a comfortable dorm, the Council’s 2007 Tennessee Youth Leadership Forum was a great success. Sixteen students — from all backgrounds and with a wide range of abilities and challenges — talked about their lives and their disabilities, listened to guest speakers from the state and beyond, toured the Capitol and met with a legislator, took a zillion pictures as part of a photography workshop, and displayed their unique talents in an evening of entertainment.

For several students, it was the first time away from family. For others, it was just one more resume item in a long list of accomplishments. Counselors included Council staff Lynette Swinford; Council on DD member, Randy Oliver; Partners grad, Michael Cates; and returning YLF-ers, Allison Eoff, Kristy Millican and Bryan Hilbert. Also on hand to lend their own brand of support and leadership: Sarah Swinford and Hailey Lawson.

Thanks to Vanderbilt University for providing us a wonderful dorm — and plenty of good food!

For information about participating next year contact me.

Ned Andrew Solomon
Director, Partners in Policymaking
TN Council on Developmental Disabilities Parkway Towers
615-532-6556
ned.solomon@state.tn.us