Since 1963, University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD) have been working to accomplish a shared vision that foresees a nation in which all Americans, including Americans with disabilities, participate fully in their communities. Independence, productivity, and community inclusion are key components of this vision. Currently, sixty-seven UCEDDs in every state and territory are located in a university setting.
The Human Development Institute at the University of Kentucky operates as a major, university-wide unit of the University of Kentucky, administered through the Office of the Vice President for Research with a mission to improve inclusion, independence and opportunities for people with disabilities and their families. HDI administers programs providing interdisciplinary training (both on and off-campus), technical assistance, leadership, advocacy, direct client services, and research across the lifespan. Represented in the Institute are projects focused on transitions throughout life and across domains. These include prenatal, infants and toddlers, early childhood, child care, school programs, employment, health, universal design and accessibility, community building, and independent living.