Bowling Green, KY, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Western Kentucky University’s SAV-Y program offers tailored higher education pathways for adults with intellectual disabilities. Enrollment has grown significantly, providing essential social skills, academic growth, and vocational integration. The program spans three years, focusing on skill development and real-world application through internships. It aims to foster independence and community among its students, enhancing their educational experiences and career prospects.
Bowling Green, KY – Western Kentucky University’s SAV-Y program is paving the way for adults with intellectual disabilities to pursue tailored higher education pathways focused on social development, academics, and vocational integration. Since its inception, enrollment in the program has surged from two students to eight within its first year, reflecting a growing demand for specialized postsecondary education opportunities.
The SAV-Y program aims to enhance independence, carve out postsecondary career paths, and foster a sense of community among its enrollees, all of whom come with unique goals and aspirations. Potential participants are individuals who typically would not qualify for traditional degree-seeking programs, thereby widening access to higher education for those with intellectual disabilities.
Structured as a three-year initiative, the SAV-Y program offers a comprehensive educational experience. In year one, students concentrate on developing social skills alongside general education courses that provide vital tools for navigating campus life. Year two pivots towards exploring individual interests with classes tailored to specific fields of study while also covering essential topics like finance, health, and personal independence. The third year culminates with advanced SAV-Y classes, offering two career track courses and mandating at least one internship per semester, preparing students for real-world employment.
While students have the option to take classes for credit, most are audited to accommodate their learning objectives. Throughout the program, participants earn micro-credentials—these are competency-based recognitions of accomplishments that enhance resumes and LinkedIn profiles, providing tangible evidence of their skills and learning journeys.
Notably, Claire Lanham has become the first SAV-Y student with Down syndrome to enroll in the program. She has received a $1,000 scholarship from the Buddy House, contributing to her educational support. The program requires that students possess a documented intellectual disability and encourages participation in classes, with a focus on communication through both verbal and nonverbal means.
SAV-Y recognizes the diverse experiences of students with disabilities, striving to meet them at their individual levels comfortably. Participants like Drew Maxwell and Ashton Geriene have focused career goals related to cars and farming, respectively, while Claire Lanham is excited about making new friends and exploring various career avenues at WKU. Moreover, program overseer Michael Matney emphasizes the importance of parents refraining from imposing limits based on disabilities, advocating for the potential within each student.
As one of only six Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary programs in the state, the SAV-Y program also includes eligibility for financial aid, ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to education. A hallmark of the program is its robust social component, which fosters friendships and campus interactions that enrich the overall college experience. Students face new challenges, such as regular class attendance and homework, which many had not encountered in previous educational settings, thereby broadening their academic horizons.
Key Features of the SAV-Y Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Growth | Increase from 2 to 8 students in the first year |
| Program Duration | Three years of postsecondary education |
| Year 1 Focus | Social skills and general education courses |
| Year 2 Focus | Classes in areas of interest and SAV-Y classes on finance and health |
| Year 3 Focus | SAV-Y classes, career track courses, and internships |
| Micro-Credentials | Competency-based recognitions for resumes and profiles |
| Financial Aid | Eligibility for financial aid for students |
FAQ
What is the SAV-Y program?
The SAV-Y program is a specialized educational initiative at Western Kentucky University for individuals with intellectual disabilities, focusing on social skills, academics, and vocational integration.
Who is eligible for enrollment in the SAV-Y program?
Enrollment is open to individuals who have a documented intellectual disability and typically would not qualify for traditional degree-seeking programs.
How long does the SAV-Y program last?
The program is structured to last three years, providing a comprehensive educational experience tailored to the needs of each student.
What types of classes do students take in the program?
Classes include general education courses, social skills training, interest-based classes, career track courses, and projects culminating in internships.
Are students graded in the SAV-Y program?
Classes are often audited, and while they can be taken for credit, most students participate for the learning experience rather than grades.
What recognition do students receive upon completion?
Students earn micro-credentials that serve as competency-based recognitions of their accomplishments.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- BG Daily News: WKU Heightens College Accessibility
- Wikipedia: Higher Education
- BG Daily News: First Buddy House Student
- Google Search: Special Education Programs
- BG Daily News: WKU SAV-Y Program Overview
- Google Scholar: Postsecondary Education for Students with Disabilities
- Wikipedia: Intellectual Disability
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Special Education
- Google News: WKU SAV-Y Program
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
