Path to Independence

Path to Independence (P2I) is an inclusive, two-year, non-degree certificate program offering a college experience to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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About

Founded in 2013 by Mary Bryant, Path to Independence (P2I) began as a mother’s vision to create opportunities for her daughter, who has Down syndrome, to pursue a college education alongside her peers. What started as a small pilot program with just a handful of students has grown into a vibrant, supportive community offering a fully inclusive college experience for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Today, P2I is one of only two inclusive postsecondary education programs in Nevada. Since its founding, the program has celebrated more than 50 graduates—each gaining academic skills, career readiness and the confidence to live more independently. In 2024–2025, we proudly celebrated our 10th graduating class, marking a decade of creating meaningful pathways to higher education, employment and community inclusion.

Program components

Academics

Students take a combination of inclusive university courses and specialized P2I seminars designed to build academic skills, career readiness and independence. Peer mentors provide in-class support, and students have access to campus resources such as the library, tutoring centers and the Disability Resource Center.

Employment

Through Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) and Work-Based Learning Experiences (WBLEs), students explore careers, gain hands-on experience and develop professional skills. Our Employment Coordinator and job coaches work closely with local employers to create meaningful, integrated job opportunities that prepare students for competitive employment after graduation.

Independent living

P2I is the only program in Nevada to offer fully inclusive on-campus housing for students with IDD. Students live alongside their peers in university residence halls and receive support from trained Residential Coaches—fellow university students who provide guidance in daily living skills, social engagement and navigating campus life.

News

Two Path to Independence summer camp participants, Lila Barber and Julia Layosa, smile outside the College of Education and Human Development.

Path to Independence hosts third annual summer camp at the University of Nevada, Reno

Camp offers hands-on college and career exploration for students with disabilities

P2I graduates pose in front of the graduation stage.

Path to Independence (P2I) celebrates 10th graduating class at University of Nevada, Reno

P2I program honors eight students for completing two years of academic, vocational and independent living training

Jesus Godinez Garcia signing with a Mariachi band.

Faces of the Pack: Jesus Godinez Garcia

Path to Independence (P2I) student performs at Tu Bienvenida

Faculty/Staff

Path to Independence
Nicole Wadden
Nicole Wadden, M.S.
Director of Path to Independence
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Path to Independence
Ryah McKay
Ryah McKay, M.Ed.
Employment Coordinator for Path to Independence
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Path to Independence
Brianna Paiva
Brianna Paiva
Academic Coordinator for Path to Independence
WRB 2005
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Path to Independence
Quentin Smith
Quentin Smith, M.Ed.
Director of Development and Advancement
(775) 784-6116
WRB 4068
8291