Mercer Times

Cobey Meyer, a senior at TCNJ’s Career and Community Studies program, recently traveled to Capitol Hill to advocate for disability rights in education. Meyer shared his personal journey during the Think College Policy Advocates program, aiming to raise awareness among lawmakers.

Meyer met with various legislators, including New Jersey Senator Andy Kim and a representative from Senator Cory Booker’s office. As a participant in a program designed to facilitate inclusive post-secondary education, Meyer’s perspective is informed by his experience living with an intellectual disability following epilepsy-related brain injury.

“I always wanted to go to college,” Meyer explained. “But when I developed epilepsy people started treating me differently. I questioned myself and I wondered if I could ever get there.” Despite these challenges, Meyer succeeded in pursuing higher education and advocacy.

Through the Think College Policy Advocate initiative, Meyer joined a team focused on briefing policymakers about the significance of inclusive college programs and employment opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities. “Programs like CCS give people with disabilities a chance to learn how to socialize, build career readiness, and have a full college experience,” he stated.

Meyer attributes his advocacy aspirations to interns at Merck and the Developmental Disability Council. He utilized these experiences to influence change and promote disability programs. “When I was at the Capitol, I felt like I was on top of the world because I was doing what I loved,” Meyer reflected. “Spreading the word and supporting programs for people with disabilities in all colleges can help create a more inclusive environment for everyone.”