University Pathways Program

We help all learners build the skills they need—both technical and personal—to reach their full potential and succeed in work or further education.

The University Pathways Program (UPP) at Post University is a partnership with EdAdvance. It supports students ages 17–22 who have diverse learning needs.

UPP helps students build important life, school, and job skills. Students learn in the classroom and through real-world experiences.

The program focuses on inclusion and personal growth. It follows the Connecticut Core Transition Skills and uses the Career Journey Model. Students learn how to speak up for themselves, make good choices, manage their time, and think critically.

UPP helps students succeed in school, explore job and college options, and connect with others. Students develop work skills through job experiences and shadowing. They also learn everyday skills like managing money, keeping a schedule, and getting along with others.

UPP staff follow each student’s IEP. Certified and non-certified staff provide support based on each student’s goals. The program helps students get ready for life after high school.

What is the model for the program?
The University Pathways Program (UPP) is a full service transition program offering all special education services necessary to make progress on the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals and objectives in the areas of academic, social/emotional and transition, while being on a University campus.

What is the program schedule?
The standard UPP program is from 8am-2pm beginning in July for extended school year (ESY), followed by a traditional school year schedule, August through June. The program can be individualized to meet the student’s needs.

What types of support does the program provide?
Academic, social, vocational, and recreational opportunities are all based on the Post campus. Services are delivered by certified and non-certified staff in conjunction with peer mentors.

Who are the peer mentors?
Peer mentors providing support to both the University Student and Emerging Student Pathways are well-vetted, outgoing, open-minded Psychology, Human Services, Education and Child Studies Students enrolled at Post University. These mentors are tasked with modeling unfamiliar activities, facilitating social conversation, problem-solving in and out of the classroom, and small group leadership. Students who complete the University Pathways Program and return as fully matriculating students at Post University are automatically invited to return as peer mentors for incoming UPP students.

What is the target population?
Students who are between the ages of 17 to 22 and have completed their high school graduation requirements, however still require support to reach their IEP goals for successful transition into adulthood.

Are students expected to take college classes?
Within the University Students Pathway, students are expected to enroll in one transition skill-building course as well as two for-credit courses per semester. The for-credit courses include three core required courses plus one elective course. There is an opportunity to earn up to 12 college credits in total upon completion of the program. Within the Emerging Students Pathway, students will have the opportunity to explore college learning through structured course-audit experiences as applicable or desired.

Are students expected to be independent?
Students are expected to maintain safe behavioral norms at all times while on campus. Each student must complete the intake process to determine if he/she is accepted into the program.

What are activities the students participate in?
Students have accessibility to all clubs, events and social gatherings offered by Post. Students also have the opportunity, with staff support, to plan, execute and enjoy trips into the local community.

What are the vocational opportunities?
Students have the opportunity for volunteer and paid work experiences on the Post campus and local community.

Who are the program staff?
All program staff are certified in their professional fields (special education, social work, vocational support, and other related services) and hold the appropriate licensure.

Are students in the program considered fully matriculated Post students?
While students in the University Students Pathway program do have the opportunity to earn college credits during their time in the University Pathways Program, a matriculated enrollment status is reserved for students who complete the UPP program, are awarded their high school diploma, apply, and are accepted into Post University as a full or part-time main campus or online student.

How do students apply?
The University Pathways Program takes pride in working with all stakeholders throughout the intake process. The program only accepts applications that are completed in collaboration with the family and school district. Start by contracting your school district staff.

Who do I contact if I have further questions?
Please feel free to contact Alyssa Pagano, Program Chair or Kara Kirkegard via [email protected] with any program questions.

Please download a PDF of the following:

University/Emerging Students Pathway 2025-2026 Calendar

Alyssa Pagano
Program Chair
Alyssa Pagano is the Program Chair of the University Pathways Program. Prior to joining us at Post, Alyssa worked as a Direct Care Counselor supporting adolescents with their life skills and also as a School Social Worker in the Ridgefield Public School system supporting high school students with their learning and behavioral needs. Alyssa earned her bachelor’s degree in human services from Southern Connecticut State University (where she was also a 4-year student athlete) and her Master of Social Work from Sacred Heart University.

Kara Kirkegard
UPP Coordinator
Kara Kirkegard is the Coordinator for the University Pathways Program and has been with UPP since the onset in 2019. She completed her Special Education studies at Saint Joseph’s University and Educational Leadership studies at Central Connecticut State University. Prior to working at UPP, Kara was a special education teacher at Ridgefield High School. While in Ridgefield, she taught academic as well as life and vocational skills with a strong focus on supporting students to generalize those skills in the community environment. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family.

Skye Cooper Gulsevin
Special Education Teacher
Skye Cooper Gulsevin is a certified special education teacher with extensive experience in the field. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences with a minor in Psychology from the University of Hartford. Skye further advanced her expertise by earning a Master of Science degree in Special Education from Central Connecticut State University. She has several years of experience working with individuals across various age groups, diverse cultural backgrounds, and abilities. Beyond her classroom responsibilities, Skye cherishes quality time with her family, loves traveling to new places, embraces creativity through D.I.Y. projects, and enjoys experimenting in the kitchen.

Ron Farina
Special Education Teacher
Ron Farina is a certified special education teacher. Ron earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from King’s College in Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in special education from Southern Connecticut State University. Ron is a certified Wilson Reading specialist and is dually certified with a degree as a Library Media Specialist. Ron has 32 years of Special Education teaching experience. Prior to joining UPP, Ron was most recently a special education teacher in the Redding Public School District where he specialized in supporting students to meet their academic and social goals. Outside of work, he enjoys golf, home projects, hiking and spending time with family.

Karen Drumm
Speech and Language Pathologist
Karen Drumm is the Speech Language Pathologist for the University Pathways Program at Post University.  With 25 years of dedicated experience, Karen has worked in a variety of settings, from schools to private practice, where she has provided speech and language services to individuals ranging in ages from children to adults.  Karen completed her undergraduate degree at Manhattan College and obtained her Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology from Lehman College.  Outside of work, Karen enjoys hiking, golfing, and attending sporting events with her family and friends.

Rita Bacon
Community Coach
Rita Bacon has been with the University Pathways Program at Post University since the onset in 2019 as a Community Coach. She is committed to the students at UPP; providing support to help them achieve their individual goals. She graduated from St. Bonaventure University with a finance degree, but education is where her passion lies. She worked in the New Fairfield school district for 15 years as a mentor in the Special Friends program and a paraeducator.  Outside of work, Rita enjoys time spent with her family and friends, traveling, cooking, gardening and is an avid sports fan.

Tanika Dawkins
Community Coach
Tanika Dawkins is a Community Coach for the University Pathways Program. She previously worked as a Residential and Day Program Manager for people with disabilities for over 20 years. Tanika obtained her AA in Health Care Management and currently working on her BA, both through Southern New Hampshire University.  In her free time, she loves traveling, spending time with her 2 daughters, sewing, and reading,

Holly Hanecak
Community Coach
Holly Hanecak is community coach with UPP and brings a unique blend of skills cultivated in child development and behavioral therapy. Prior to joining UPP, Holly was a Senior Behavior Therapist and a Head Start Teacher. She is deeply passionate about fostering a supportive environment and helping every student recognize and reach their full potential. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her Husband and 3 boys, including cheering on her son as he plays college football, watching various sports, and spending relaxing time at the beach collecting seashells and shark teeth.

Stephanie Hardwick
Community Coach
Stephanie Hardwick is a Community Coach for the University Pathways Program. She previously worked as a case manager in an office in Waterbury. Stephanie obtained her bachelor’s in Human Services from Post University and is now a grad student here studying Counseling. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking and doing anything outdoors. She also loves spending time with her friends and family, but most of all her three dogs.

Chaquona Williams
Community Coach
Chaquona Williams is a Community Coach at the University Pathways Program. Chaquona has previously worked as a Behavioral Therapist providing supportive services in home and at school settings.  Chaquona has several years as a caseworker for transitional adults assisting with living skills and IEP goals of independence. Chaquona has a BA in General Studies and pursuing a MPA currently. Chaquona enjoys traveling and spending time with her son and family. Chaquona also enjoys coaching 10u coed soccer and watching her son play sports year-round.

Jody Minotti
Director of Regional and Transition Initiatives at EdAdvance
Jody Minotti has been with the University Pathways Program at Post University since the onset in 2019 as the Director. Within this role, he serves as the administrator to UPP as well as oversees other regional and state special education work for the agency. Prior to working for EdAdvance, Jody has spent over 20 years in various administrative and teaching roles across various grade levels and districts. Jody completed his undergraduate at Plymouth State College, and graduate/administrative work at Fairfield and Sacred Heart Universities. Outside of work Jody enjoys exercising, cooking/eating, playing and coaching sports, and spending time with his family.