Summary
Vision
To be recognized and trusted as a partner providing knowledge, resources, and innovative leadership within a statewide network of professional and community partners.
Mission
To improve the lives of West Virginians by providing evidence-based services and training opportunities, conducting research to continually pursue new and innovative approaches to care and support, and sharing information about supports and resources throughout the state and nation.
Overview
Established in 1978, the Center for Excellence in Disabilities (CED) is located in Morgantown, West Virginia and has a satellite office in Charleston, West Virginia with staff located in offices across the state to better serve clients in their communities. The CED is a unit within West Virginia University (WVU) Health Sciences Center, and because of the placement within the University, has access and alignment within the Schools of Pharmacy, Public Health, Nursing, Medicine, and Dentistry.
As a federally designated University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), the CED is part of a national network of similar centers across the country that serve as a resource to the community in the areas of education, research, and service as it relates to the needs of people with disabilities.
Get Connected
Become an Affiliate
Organization, Community, Faculty, and Staff Affiliates have opportunities to provide input regarding programs, services, and research projects while staying connected to the CED.
Apply to Be an AffiliateCenter Advisory Committee
The CED’s Center Advisory Committee (CAC) is made up of West Virginians with disabilities and their families. The CAC advises the CED regarding civil rights, needs, and services for people with disabilities to help assure their full inclusion in their communities.
Apply to Join the CACAdditional Get Connected Links
Reports & Media
Staff & Jobs
How the CED and WVU work together
The CED advances WVU’s mission by connecting education, research, service, and community engagement to improve the lives of people with disabilities and their families across West Virginia. As part of a major academic institution, the CED can bring together faculty expertise, students, research infrastructure, clinical resources, and statewide partnerships to address complex challenges in ways that no single program or organization could accomplish alone. At the same time, the CED brings the experiences and priorities of communities back to the University, strengthening teaching, research, and workforce development. This connection amplifies impact by turning WVU knowledge and innovation into practical solutions for West Virginians while creating meaningful opportunities for students and faculty to serve the state.
We believe in...
- Advocating for a society that is supportive of individuals with disabilities.
- Supporting self-determination and independence.
- Encouraging leadership and transparency within the organization and community.
- Supporting solution-oriented, evidence-based practices and research.
- Promoting ethical and culturally appropriate practices.
- Collaborating with our partners to build a stronger network of support.
- West Virginians being in control of their own destinies.
Culture Statement
As a team of driven and passionate individuals, we promote a culture grounded in advocacy and independence. We encourage collaboration, transparency, and support within our organization and community. By using our collective knowledge and drive, we can collectively improve the lives of all West Virginians.