Redwood SEED Scholars Celebrates First Class of Students Graduation
UC Davis has celebrated a landmark achievement: the graduation of the first class of Redwood SEED Scholars, a groundbreaking program for students with intellectual disabilities. The four-year, non-degree initiative — the first of its kind in California — blends academic courses, campus living, and personalized mentorship to foster independence, confidence, and community.
At the June 7 ceremony, eight scholars proudly accepted their credentials in front of family, faculty, and supporters, wearing UC Davis blue caps and custom stoles embroidered with redwood trees. “It’s emotional and I’m proud,” said scholar Cristina Riegos. For many, including Olivia Adams-Falconer, the experience was “life-changing.”
Redwood SEED Scholars participate in both specialized and traditional college courses, supported by over 170 peer mentors. Students have taken classes in subjects ranging from Korean history to rock and roll. Most graduates already have jobs lined up, many with departments they worked in during the program.
The program also emphasizes long-term independence. Several scholars plan to remain in Davis, living and working in the community. Some, like Adams-Falconer and Karis Chun, will return as mentors. Others will continue in campus jobs, research labs, or retail roles. “They’re showing the world what they can do,” said literacy instructor Dru Cullison.
Funded by a federal education grant and supported by state partners, the program accepts 12 students annually. Director Beth Foraker sees Redwood SEED as a model for inclusive education: “We’re building a community of belonging — and it’s happening right here in Davis.”
Applications for the next cohort open October 1.
Media Resources
The article, "UC Davis program for students with intellectual disabilities graduates first class of students" was originally published in the UC Davis Health newsfeed. Our news item includes a canonical tag that redirects traffic to the original article.