The Missouri State University West Plains ASCEND program has received $7.5 million in capital funding after Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed legislation appropriating the funds Thursday.
The funding will be used for a facility to house the program which supports students with autism.
33rd District State Sen. Karla Eslinger, a long-time educator and former superintendent at West Plains R-7 schools, introduced the legislation which earmarked funding for the facility, according to Ozark Radio News.
The Autism Support Can Empower New Directions, or ASCEND, program is designed to help students with autism transition into college and toward a life of personal success and independence. The program, which is the first of its kind in the region, will offer specialized support services for those who wish to embark on a traditional college degree path to reach personally-chosen goals.
Univserity officials state the new facility will house office space for ASCEND personnel, sensory space to assist students during overwhelming moments and gathering space for ASCEND group and one-on-one meetings. The facility will also provide space for potential new degree programs which are currently in the planning stages.
Officials state a location for the new facility has not been determined.
For more information about the ASCEND program visit https://wp.missouristate.edu/ASCEND.
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