University Startups

? Changemaker Spotlight ? At University Startups, we’re thrilled to spotlight changemakers who are shaping brighter futures for students nationwide. This month, we’re celebrating Kate Jayne, an Instructional Coach at the NYC Department of Education, whose dedication to inclusive learning is making a lasting impact. Kate is passionate about supporting students with disabilities, ensuring they have the tools and resources to create realistic and tangible goals for their post-secondary careers. By integrating University Startups' (USU) platform, she has been able to personalize learning experiences, helping students develop independence while fostering collaboration in both individual and group settings. Thank you, Kate, for your unwavering dedication to student success. We proudly celebrate your impact and support your mission of creating accessible, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences.

As a teacher, Erica Beard, MAEd offers a knowledgeable, school-centered explanation of how our programming meets the needs of schools across the nation. She knows that the *best* way to help students reach their goals is to support educators in reaching theirs. You can schedule a demo with Erica at https://lnkd.in/dM4tfeg8 if you want to hear more about her work.

Announcing our February 2025 Changemaker Spotlight! University Startups is proud to recognize Brittany Spatola, a dedicated math cluster teacher at P9Q in District 75, NYC Department of Education, for her commitment to creating inclusive, student-centered learning experiences. With over 11 years of experience, Brittany has been a champion for career readiness, ensuring that students—especially English Language Learners, students with disabilities, and those with emotional challenges—have equitable access to the tools they need to shape their futures. Through The University Startups Program, she empowers students to explore career paths and take ownership of their journeys. Thank you, Brittany, for your dedication to fostering independence, confidence, and lifelong success for your students!

Announcing our February 2025 Changemaker Spotlight! University Startups is proud to recognize Chelsea Billings, an inspiring educator at Poteet ISD, for her dedication to empowering students through Career & Technical Education. With eight years of experience, Chelsea has been instrumental in introducing students to agriculture and guiding every 7th grader in her district to explore academic and career opportunities. Through University Startups, she helps students take ownership of their futures, gain independence, and explore careers that align with their passions. Thank you, Chelsea, for your commitment to student success and for equipping the next generation with the tools to thrive!

Today University Startups (USU) and Amazon Web Services (AWS) announced plans to develop an innovative, next-generation AI Chatbot tailored specifically for the special education community. This exciting, jointly-funded project aims to create a cutting-edge tool that will transform transition planning for over 7.5 million K-12 students with disabilities across the United States, as well as the dedicated network of teachers, para-educators, counselors, parents, and support staff who assist them. USU’s Co-CEO Marc Steren said, "Partnering with AWS helps us focus on what we do best—innovating for students and educators—while tapping into AWS’s powerful suite of services, including AI, machine learning, data analytics, and scalable storage solutions." University Startups is excited to invite school districts interested in enhancing their Special Education programs to join their pilot partner program. AWS's Abby Chittams: “We’re thrilled to partner with USU to bring next-gen technologies to an incredibly important segment of the education space. This collaboration, using programs like Amazon Bedrock AI, will redefine and disrupt special education, helping to create a more inclusive and accessible future for students and educators alike." Together, USU and AWS are setting the stage for a revolution in special education, unlocking new possibilities and breaking down barriers like never before.

Announcing our January 2025 Changemaker Spotlight! University Startups is excited to recognize Megan Atkinson Ed.S., Director of Career and Technical Education at Pulaski County Public Schools, for her outstanding work preparing students for success beyond graduation. Through programs like Career Discovery and Preparing for the Workforce, Megan is leveraging University Startups' resources to help students connect classroom learning with real-world career opportunities. Thank you, Megan, for your dedication to empowering students and building strong community partnerships that support their future success!

Announcing our December 2024 Changemaker Spotlight! University Startups is excited to recognize?Maria Solares Wilde, Workforce Development Coordinator at?Identity, Inc., for her outstanding work supporting students and clients through Identity's Workforce Development Program. The Changemaker Spotlight highlights leaders like Maria, who are leveraging University Startups' resources to create lasting impacts in their communities. Thank you, Maria, for your incredible dedication to empowering students and fostering community growth through workforce development!

Announcing our November 2024 Changemaker Spotlight! University Startups is excited to recognize?Hayleigh Bradbury, an educator who is making a positive impact with her students at the?Eastern Shore Community College (ESCC) Career Services Center. The Changemaker Spotlight showcases amazing educators using the?USU?platform to empower futures. As a Career Services Mentor, Hayleigh works with students to develop a career plan, build professional skills, and pursue internships. She employs?USU?modules to supplement workshops and business courses, engaging students as soon as they arrive on campus. Thank you, Hayleigh, for all of your hard work making a difference at ESCC!

??Last week, we officially launched the Green Biz Incubator! In partnership with University Startups, this initiative is focused on driving innovation, advancing sustainability, and empowering small businesses in Montgomery County, MD, to create a sustainable future! ???? A big thank you to everyone who joined us and to Montgomery County Government for their commitment to building a greener and more prosperous community. ??