New Program at UA’s Rise Named in Memory of UA Trustee

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. ­ The University of Alabama’s award winning early intervention program, RISE, recently announced the establishment of the George S. Shirley Leadership Program, named in memory of the UA trustee.

The program is funded by contributions made in Shirley’s memory. The Tuscaloosa resident died in August after a lengthy illness. Shirley and his wife, Betty, had been actively involved with the RISE program since the birth of their grandson, Walt, who was born with Down syndrome more than 17 years ago.

The Shirley program will support RISE graduates who attend The University of Alabama by providing them employment and opportunities to develop leadership skills.

“The program will honor Mr. Shirley’s commitment to, and love of, The University of Alabama and the RISE Program,” said Dr. Martha Cook, RISE director. “Our graduates will have the opportunity to be role models for our current students and at the same time emulate Mr. Shirley’s highly respected leadership abilities.”

RISE has helped prepare more than 2,000 children, both disabled and non-disabled, for regular public school classes. The free program is designed to increase development in children, ages four months to five years, and prepare them for their next classrooms, regular or special education. It was recently granted accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC); a prestigious recognition only achieved by 7 percent of early childhood programs nationwide. Also, in the past year, the center has been duplicated in Dallas and Houston.

For more information on the Shirley Leadership Program or RISE, contact Cook at 205/348-7131.