Educational Psychology
Best Buddies organization honored
School of Education, Health, and Society
8/20/08
Miami University's Best Buddies chapter is one of six recognized with an exceptional chapter award at the Best Buddies International 19th Annual Student Leadership Conference held July 18-21 at Indiana University.
Miami's was one of 35 college chapters recognized from more than 400 throughout the world for its dedication to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships.
"The conference was wonderful," says Miami chapter president Rosie Landau. "It inspired me to work even harder to do everything I can to improve the lives of those with intellectual disabilities."
Landau attended the conference with the chapter's host site coordinator Connie Mehlman, coordinator of community integration for Butler County MRDD, and Jody Mann, local Buddy director. The chapter's faculty adviser is Kathy McMahon-Klosterman, educational psychology.
The Miami chapter was formed in 2004. Seventy-five students currently are members and work with 40 adults with intellectual disabilities. Miami has been represented at the conference since the summer of 2005.
Best Buddies is a non-profit organization founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver. For more information, visit www.bestbuddies.org.