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Messiah University introduces NEXT Steps

2025 - Volume 1

Two smiling young men, one with Down syndrome and the other with a beard, embracing each other in a modern, bright study space. Both are wearing casual clothing, with one holding books and wearing headphones.A residential certificate program for students with intellectual disability

In February, Messiah University launched the NEXT Steps program, a fully residential, two-year certificate designed to provide a transformative college experience for students with intellectual disability. The program reflects Messiah’s commitment to inclusive education and prepares students with the skills and experiences needed to lead more independent lives.

NEXT Steps — short for Navigating Educational Experiences Together — is open to students aged 18–25 who have completed high school. Participants will live on Messiah’s campus, engage in academic and co-curricular activities, and be fully integrated into campus life. Through individualized support, the program aims to strengthen students’ independence, vocational readiness and social connections.

“We are thrilled to extend Messiah University’s Christian educational mission to students with intellectual disability,” said Amber Brisbane, program director of NEXT Steps. “This program is designed to provide a vibrant and supportive community where neurodiverse students can thrive academically, socially and personally.”

Students in NEXT Steps will reside in on-campus housing, where they will develop independent living skills in a supportive environment. Academically, they will enroll in undergraduate courses alongside their peers as well as take program-specific classes focused on life and employment skills. They will also have full access to Messiah’s vibrant campus life, including clubs, athletics and cultural events, building meaningful connections with the broader community. Vocational training through internships and practical experiences will prepare students for meaningful employment after graduation. Upon completing the program, students will earn a certificate in Career and Personal Development with a concentration in one of four areas of interest.

“Messiah University has a longstanding tradition of academic excellence and student-centered education,” said former President Kim Phipps. “NEXT Steps is a natural extension of our commitment to creating opportunities for all students to grow and succeed. We are excited to welcome these students to our campus and to see the contributions they will make to our community.”

Applications for the inaugural NEXT Steps cohort are now open, with the program set to begin in fall 2025. Prospective students, families and educators can learn more about the program and application process by visiting messiah.edu/nextsteps.

— Danielle Ran ’06, M.A. ’25

If you are interested in making a donation to support the NEXT Steps fund, you may do so by visiting: messiah.edu/give-next