DHD Alumni and International Paralympic Committee

Thanks to the perspective and knowledge gained from the Disability Studies program at UIC, I have been able to develop a career internationally and in multiple areas. My initial interests were with physical activity and disability research but have steadily expanded into broader issues. These issues include advocating for human rights; increasing global awareness; and justifying the role of sport, including recreation and play, as a viable vehicle to reach international development objectives such as the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals. Since graduating from UIC in 2002, I have worked in Kosovo and Germany and have been responsible for relations with more than 160 nations. In my current position as Development Manager with the International Paralympic Committee, I have had incredible opportunities to interact with major international organizations such as the United Nations and to provide direct input on policies and programs. In addition, I had the honor and great pleasure to be present at the United Nations to witness the completion of the Convention on the Rights and Dignities of Persons with Disabilities. Following this significant moment in history, it is now critical that we all come together to see the ratification, implementation and monitoring of the Convention.

For more information, please contact: Amy Farakas at: farkasamy@comcast.net