Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing 

The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing brought together nearly 200 students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across six area school districts, along with various local employers, at the fourth annual Oso Able Conference on Friday, Oct. 2, at Baylor University's Foster Campus for Business and Innovation.

Kristen Padilla, Ph.D., Center director of strategic partnerships and community, is featured in the October 2026 issue of WACOAN Magazine as part of its People of Waco series. In the feature, Padilla shares how her work and community service allow her to support people with disabilities and their families while helping strengthen connections among local organizations and service providers. Read the full story on page 95.

The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing was recognized as an honoree at the 2026 National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) Big Game Ball on Sept. 2 in Atlanta. The annual fundraiser celebrates individuals and organizations advancing opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing is highlighting its growing efforts to develop culturally and linguistically responsive research, resources and programming alongside Latino and Spanish-speaking communities impacted by disability.