For nearly 50 years, the UMKC Institute for Human Development (IHD) has worked alongside individuals with disabilities, families, researchers, educators, community organizations, and policymakers to create more inclusive communities where all people can thrive.
Since our founding in 1977 as Missouri’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), thousands of people have been part of that journey. Some spent decades at IHD as employees or researchers. Others joined us as students, trainees, community partners, self-advocates, family members, volunteers, or collaborators.
Whether your connection lasted years or only on a single project, you’ve helped shape who we are today.
As IHD begins preparing for our 50th anniversary in 2027, we’re launching a Reconnect initiative to reconnect with the people who have been part of our story.
More Than an Anniversary
A milestone anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments, but it’s also a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come and where we’re headed next.
Over the past five decades, the world has changed dramatically — and so has our work.
What began with a focus on improving opportunities and community supports for people with developmental disabilities has continued to grow alongside the changing needs of our communities. As new challenges emerged, IHD expanded its expertise, developed new partnerships, and responded with innovative research, training, technical assistance, and community programs.
While our work has evolved, our mission has remained remarkably consistent: creating partnerships to support people across the lifespan and helping build communities where everyone has the opportunity to live, learn, work and participate fully.
Preserving Our History
As we look toward the future, we’re also looking back.
Over the coming months, IHD will begin exploring nearly 50 years of history — collecting stories, photographs, publications, accomplishments and memories that tell the story of our evolution and the people who made it possible.
Some of those stories live in our archives…
Many more live in the people who have been part of IHD throughout the years.
That’s why we’re asking for your help.
We’d Love to Reconnect
Were you a former employee? Did you complete a training program or internship with IHD? Have you partnered with us on a project, served on an advisory group, collaborated on research, or participated in one of our programs?
By completing our reconnect form, you’ll help us:
- Reconnect with former employees, alumni, partners and friends of IHD.
- Share updates as we prepare for our 50th anniversary.
- Build a stronger community for the future.
- Preserve the stories that have shaped nearly five decades of impact.
Help Us Tell the Story
If IHD has been part of your journey, we’d be honored to reconnect with you!
Together, we’ll celebrate the first 50 years — and begin writing the next chapter.
