Ella Conway and Jamie Whitford make quite the team. The duo started together this Spring Semester 2025 at the reception area of the School of Education and Counseling (SEC) on the third floor in Julka Hall. Conway will be the first to tell you she couldn’t have asked for a better teammate.

“Being around Jamie has left a lasting impact on me,” said Conway, a special education major scheduled to graduate in December 2026. “When there’s an inclusive community it enriches us all and brings out the best in everyone. I’ve seen it first-hand with Jamie.” 

Whitford, 29, is in his second year as a student in the Reciprocal Inclusive Student Experience (RISE) Program. RISE, under the direction of Program Manager Michael Morrow, started in the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education at Cleveland State University (CSU) two years ago. It’s a comprehensive transition experience designed for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This two-to-four-year transition certificate program empowers students to continue their post-secondary education journey after high school.

Columbus, Ohio-based Spectrum News 1 featured Whitford with this story that aired during an April newscast. 

“Having RISE is essential for inclusion in higher education,” said Conway “It reflects real diversity on campus and ensures everyone has an opportunity to grow, contribute and succeed.” 

The CSU RISE Program is part of a national movement with eight other programs in Ohio and over 300 programs across the nation. Conway and Whitford team up to manage the reception area of the SEC, which includes making copies, sorting mail, decorating the front office, answering phones and greeting visitors. They’ve also developed a friendship with their TikTok reel collaborations. Whitford alone has more than 240,000 TikTok followers. 

“One day I hope to be a wedding planner, make movies and do movie reviews,” exclaimed Whitford, who cites Star Wars and Wicked as his favorite films. “It’s fun being around Ella. We’re even going to the [Cleveland] Guardians [baseball game] tomorrow.”

RISE Program participants have the opportunity to take general education courses with peers which ensures an inclusive and enriching learning environment. RISE has a core curriculum that includes essential classes in career development, independent living, and self-determination and self-advocacy. Its partnership with the Employment Collaborative of Cuyahoga County ensures RISE program participants will have greater access to employment opportunities in and around their communities.

“Jamie keeps a sense of humor,” said SEC Administrative Assistant Judy Terrigno. “He’s very friendly. Even when he’s not volunteering, he’s always greeting visitors. Jamie’s a joy to have around.”

“RISE students prove everyday what’s possible,” added Conway. “They break down barriers and open doors. It’s given a space for all students to feel valued and welcome.”