Dr. Kathy Sheppard-Jones, Executive Director of the University of Kentucky Human Development Institute (HDI), shares an important and timely message with Kentuckians. This short video message includes reminders about landmark civil rights laws and protections in our country, as well as information about resources and services that can help people with disabilities stay safe, healthy, and connected during this uncertain time. #TeamKentucky
Click here to view the UK HDI Message 3-30-20.
HDI expertise is found throughout the counties of Kentucky. I am proud of our strong network, and of our ability to find common threads upon which to build even stronger coalitions.
Kathy Sheppard-Jones – Executive Director
How did you come to know HDI?
I had just graduated from UK and was looking for a job. I got hired on as a STEPS employees on the Kentucky Employment Initiative. It was in the final month of grant funding.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I have been at HDI for over 20 years in a variety of roles. I’ve been fortunate to work for and learn from Barney Fleming, John Hancock, Carolyn Wheeler, and Harold Kleinert. I have worked across projects that emphasized – agriculture, assistive technology, universal design, health and wellness, preservice training, quality of life, driver rehabilitation, and return to work. I’ve been the Community Education Director, Adult Services Director, and Training Director. Now I am fortunate to be the Executive Director.
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
I’m proud to have played a small part in Employment First in Kentucky, and so proud that many HDIers are leading the way in helping to fulfill the promise of Employment First. I’m proud to have coordinated efforts to bring the Certificate in Universal Design to the University of Kentucky. But even more so, I’m proud to be part of an organization that means a great deal to the Commonwealth. I’m proud to highlight the accomplishments of our staff and proud that the HDI is considered a good partner that builds inclusive communities.
Do you have any advice for current and future staff and students at HDI?
Bring the best of yourself to the work that you do. Dream big. Work hard. Do good. Be kind. Book now for the HDI 100th anniversary gala.
The University of Kentucky Human Development Institute (HDI) hosted its 50th anniversary Gala at the Gatton Student Center on Saturday, November 4, 2019. This momentous occasion brought together nearly 200 current and former staff, students, families, and community partners to celebrate the achievements of HDI’s mission to promote the inclusion, independence, and contributions of people with disabilities and their families throughout the lifespan.
On behalf of HDI, Dr. Kathy Sheppard-Jones welcomed special guest speakers that included UK Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. David Blackwell, UK Vice-President for Research, Dr. Lisa Cassis, former Executive Director of HDI, Dr. Harold Kleinert, and Executive Director of the Association of University Centers on Disabilities, Andy Imparato, JD. Imparato said, “HDI has been a force for change in Kentucky and across the country for the past 50 years. Under Kathy’s leadership, HDI is poised to change the world with and for people with disabilities moving into the future”. Continue reading
The Human Development Institute (HDI) established the Fund for Excellence for the development of innovative programs, services or products to address the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, for which funding is not currently available. In the July, 2019 funding cycle, HDI awarded three Fund for Excellence projects:
HDI means very much to me. I am honored to have been a part of HDI. It is a place of opportunity, where very committed and hard-working people are supported in pursuing creative and effective approaches to fulfilling a challenging and very important mission.
—Malachy Bishop, Ph.D., CRC, Norman L. and Barbara M. Berven Professor of Rehabilitation Psychology in the Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education at UW Madison & Past HDI Director of Research and Development