30th Anniversary History Book

President Hagerty joined leaders from the University of Arizona, Texas A&M University, Drake University, and St. Cloud State University, who also signed the charter and founding statement on this international compact. “It was a special privilege to participate in the chartering of this important international work and advocacy,” Hagerty said after the signing ceremony, “as it will narrow the distance between the justified ambitions of college-ready students with disabilities and the quality and accessibility of the high-level preparation they seek.” Beacon’s Steve Muller, who attended as a Harkin Summit delegate as well, reflected, “Beacon’s legacy is that of an institution of higher learning that recognized early on the potential and determination of collegians who learn differently. We are inspired that this cause has been embraced by an expanding global community.” In coming years, GUDIN organizers plan to use international meetings and an advanced electronic backbone to support digital networking to grow a global partnership that will serve thousands of higher education institutions worldwide. Beacon has been invited to be at the center of this global enterprise. Throughout their travels, Oksana Hagerty said seeing hope and ambition in the eyes of students is the most rewarding part of Beacon’s outreach efforts. “They realize that their struggles aren’t abnormal. Many other individuals have them, and there’s a way to deal with them.” Beacon in Tuscany In his 2015 Education Update op-ed on global education, Hagerty noted, “Among the many benefits of a long life fairly lived are the strokes of good fortune that can be enjoyed. Over the past decade, two such opportunities have been granted me: the privilege of living and working as an educator on four continents and the advantage and honor of returning to a career path that has drawn me back to the service of students with disabilities.” His journey as an academic, a special education policymaker, and a devotee of global travel and its benefits gave him perspective on the importance of international study opportunities for Beacon students.

Hotel Giardino

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