KY Lend

Kentucky LEND logo

The Human Development Institute (HDI), Kentucky’s University Center on Disability, is administrator for a five-year Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Maternal and Child Health Bureau in partnership with the University of Louisville and Eastern Kentucky University. The Kentucky LEND Program is part of a national network of LEND programs. LEND programs share the same overall mission of improving the health of infants, children and adolescents with, or at risk for, neurodevelopmental and related disabilities including autism. A major focus of LEND is to increase the number of professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide evidence-based screening and diagnosis as well as supports to individuals and families.


We are now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applicants may apply online for admission by April 1, 2024.

Apply Online: https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5vAMf2dLWxdaRV4 or use the QR code below.

Trainees must be ONE of the following:

  • enrolled in a graduate or post-graduate training program at the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, or Eastern Kentucky University for Fall 2024 semester in a LEND discipline
  • a family member of an individual with an intellectual or developmental disability
  • an individual with an intellectual or developmental disability

Submit the online application for admission to the LEND Program. You will need to include your resume, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and transcript (unofficial copy of transcript will be accepted).

You will be scheduled to have an interview as part of the application process.

If you have questions or need help in applying, call Caroline Gooden at 859.582.5134 or email cjgood2@uky.edu

Our Goals:

  • Provide a unique training experience for interdisciplinary students with an emphasis on persons with multiple identities, their mental health, and the perspectives of self-advocates;
  • Increase the clinical expertise and leadership skills of practicing Kentucky professionals and families; and
  • Increase collaboration with universities, agencies, and statewide health and employment initiatives across Kentucky that train students and professionals to serve children and youth with autism and other developmental disabilities.