MARGO VREEBURG IZZO
Margo has extensive experience designing and directing projects that improve transition services and outcomes for students with disabilities with funding from the U.S. Department of Education, National Science Foundation, and other state and local agencies. Margo’s projects have ranged from developing educational curricula for high school students to designing college programs and supports for students with disabilities.
Margo works with a team of researchers and developers who are passionate about preparing students for smooth and effective transitions to college and careers. Together, they have published more than 35 peer-reviewed articles, books, or book chapters on disability and transition issues. Margo received the Mary E. Switzer Fellowship from the National Institute of Disability Rehabilitation Research in 1996. As Past President of the Division of Career Development and Transition, she provides leadership to national, state, and regional committees to improve the quality of education and transition services.
Margo is a mother, wife, and a person with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She believes that people with hidden disabilities will succeed when we accept our disability as a part of who we are and realize that our abilities and our challenges give us important perspectives. When we, as people with hidden disabilities gain disability pride, we have the power to gain the accommodations and supports we need to maximize our potential. When we experience shame, we undermine our abilities and compromise our true potential. Margo’s personal and professional mission is to help all people with disabilities gain disability pride and lead meaningful lives.