NCLD Unveils New Mission, Vision, and Strategic Direction During Inaugural LD Summit

• Bringing together educators, policymakers, researchers, and advocates for a day of meaningful discussion on the future of learning disabilities in the U.S.
• Released the technical report of its latest edition of the State of LD: Navigating the Transition to Adulthood 
• NCLD unveiled its new mission, vision, and organizational pillars, signaling a bold new direction in its advocacy for individuals with learning disabilities
• Hosted a second-day Hill event with key stakeholders to advance policy priorities

WASHINGTON D.C., — October 24, 2024 — The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) brought together educators, policymakers, researchers, and advocates on Monday, October 7, for its inaugural LD Summit. The event marked a significant milestone in the organization’s history, as NCLD unveiled its new mission, vision, and strategic direction, signaling a bold new chapter in its advocacy for individuals with learning disabilities.

Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez, who joined NCLD as CEO in January 2023 from the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), spoke passionately about the future of the organization and its renewed focus on breaking down systemic barriers for the neurodivergent community.

“We are at a pivotal moment for learning disabilities advocacy,” said Dr. Rodriguez. “This new mission and vision reflect NCLD’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that individuals with learning disabilities not only have a seat at the table but are thriving in every aspect of their lives—whether in school, at work, or in their communities. Our focus is on driving real, systemic change that unlocks opportunities and expands access for all.”

At the heart of this new direction is NCLD’s updated mission, which states, 

The National Center for Learning Disabilities partners with educators, students, families, and young adults to advance innovative research and advocate for equitable policies that address systemic barriers in schools, workplaces, and communities.

Dr. Rodriguez continued, “Our vision of ‘unrestricted access and unlimited opportunity’ guides everything we do. We envision a world where systems are redesigned to ensure a learning disability is not a barrier to success and where people with learning disabilities have the opportunity to show the world their unique strengths and capabilities.”

NCLD’s new strategic direction is built on a foundation of equity, inclusion, and empowerment, setting the stage for the organization’s work in years to come.

The LD Summit featured a range of engaging discussions, including the panel “Putting Research into Practice,” which brought together experts to explore the intersection of research and real-world application.

Panelists included:

• DeAndrea Byrd, Mom Boss Activator
• Sean Gill, Neurodiversity in the Workplace
• Kirk Lew, Office of Disability Employment Policy, U.S. Department of Labor
• Tawny Hlibok, Esq., White House Fellow
• Dr. Nathan Fisher, Roselle Public Schools

The summit also highlighted the experiences of neurodivergent young adults in the session “Exploring the Young Adult Experience,” featuring NCLD’s Young Adult Leadership Council alumni Stevie Mays and Nick Leininger. Additionally, NCLD’s research leads Laura Stelitano, Ph.D., and Saashya Rodrigo, Ph.D., along with WestEd contributor Sarah Emily Wilson, Ph.D., presented key insights from the highly anticipated State of Learning Disabilities, Navigating the Transition to Adulthood. The report offers critical data on the experiences of young adults with learning disabilities as they transition into the workforce, higher education, and independent living.

The event concluded on Tuesday, October 8, with a day of advocacy on Capitol Hill. NCLD board members, the Professional Advisory Board, and Family Leadership Council members met with key lawmakers to push forward policy priorities aimed at enhancing educational equity and inclusion for the neurodivergent community.

About NCLD

The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that individuals with learning disabilities have the supports, tools, and resources they need to succeed in school, work, and life. Established with a commitment to fostering inclusivity and equity in education, NCLD engages in advocacy, research, and the development of innovative programs to empower individuals, their families, and educators with learning disabilities. Through collaboration with researchers, educators, policymakers, and the broader community, NCLD transforms systems and policies to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.  

For questions or more information, email info@ncld.org.

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