BEAVER FALLS, Pa. – The director of Geneva College’s ACCESS program, Nancy I. Smith, gave a presentation at this year’s Pennsylvania Association of Developmental Educators (PADE) conference held near Hershey, Pennsylvania. PADE is a non-profit organization in place to address the needs and interests of developmental educators from all types of postsecondary institutions.

The conference, which was held March 26-27, 2009, focused on the theme, “Increasing the Odds for Student Success.”

Smith presented a workshop on Disabilities and Diversity in American Culture and Higher Education. She examined how institutions and churches have been impacted by cultural norms, theology and the law in dealing with disabilities and diversity problems. Smith also included a portion on how Geneva College has historically been a trailblazer in this area.

Smith concluded her presentation with ways in which postsecondary institutions can develop a welcoming and inclusive environment for students with disabilities that will promote academic success.

Geneva College is a comprehensive Christian college of the arts, sciences and professional studies. Founded in the tradition of the Reformed Christian faith, Geneva prepares students to serve Christ in all areas of society: work, family and the church. Geneva is a founding member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU).