USCA LIFE celebrates first graduating class

The University of South Carolina Aiken’s LIFE (Learning Is For Everyone) Program will mark a historic milestone as it graduates its first class during the university commencement ceremony on Wednesday, May 7.

The two-year program launched in the fall of 2023 is designed to support students with intellectual disabilities by offering academic guidance and fostering social inclusion. Students are actively engaged in coursework, jobs, and various activities for over 8 hours each day. 

This spring, 13 students will celebrate their achievements by receiving the Promoting Academic, Community, & Employment Readiness (PACER) credential.

Seven graduates will extend their academic journey by joining the Leadership and Civic Engagement (LCE) program, a two-year course culminating in a second credential. One graduate has accepted a position with Savannah River Mission Completion (SRMC), and several others have already obtained jobs or volunteer roles within the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).

“Securing meaningful employment remains a priority for USCA LIFE and we are very excited to see more individuals become aware of this program and consider our students for employment,” said Adrienne Patterson, assistant director of USCA LIFE.

Dr. Melissa Martin, Program Director, shared that the students have developed soft skills to help them obtain and retain employment, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and manage their schedules. “Topics like pet care, home maintenance, meal planning and budgeting, home decorating, being prepared for inclement weather, hosting guests, and cleaning were covered in their Managing a Home course,” she said. “All of these skills are vital to independent living and employment beyond college.”

During the 2024–2025 academic year, the USCA LIFE program partnered with Dr. Hatchett, Chair of the Exercise and Sports Science Department. His students took on the role of movement mentors, working closely with the graduating class to set and achieve personal fitness goals.

“We also teamed up with Professors Aaron and Fairchild from the School of Nursing, who provided instruction on first aid fundamentals and healthy eating habits,” Martin said. “These peer-to-peer collaborations are invaluable, offering our students meaningful connections and support from peers their own age.”

In recent weeks, the graduates have been savoring their final moments in the program, beginning with a special dinner shared with family members and community supporters,

The First Cohort includes:

• Evan Allgood
• Neva Bassett
• Amelia Carpenter
• Quey Kelly
• Jesse Reyes
• Ryan Johnson
• Megan Weeks
• Brayden Thompson
• Chelsea Best
• Alex Corson
• Evan Smith
• Lilly Colwell
• Lizzy Cottington

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.