Project SAINT
STUDENT ACCESS AND INCLUSION TOGETHER
A post-secondary, mentor-supported college experience for young adults with unique abilites.
sfcollege.edu/project-saint
Project SAINT
Project SAINT is an official Florida Post-Secondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP), recognized by the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities.
Housed in the Adult Education Department at Santa Fe College’s Northwest Campus, Project SAINT stands for Student Access and INclusion Together. The name SAINT reflects the college’s team name, the Santa Fe Saints, as well as the program’s emphasis on “inclusion together.” SAINT students receive the part-time support of SF student mentors whether in classes, on internships or participating in campus activities.
Project SAINT = Inclusion
Inclusion is the central concept in Project SAINT. SAINT students attend classes, participate in internships on and off campus, join campus clubs, enjoy a wide range of student activities and events, and have access to all campus facilities, such as the SF Teaching Zoo and the SF Kika Silva Pla Planetarium. They do all of this alongside other SF students.
“I never thought I’d be riding the city bus by myself going to college, have a job and be a supervisor. I didn’t imagine I would be living my dream playing basketball with Special Olympics, traveling the U.S. and going to Germany to represent USA Special Olympics. I’m labeled disabled, but my dreams are still coming true.”
- Ivory Richardson, Project SAINT graduate, 2023
Who We Are
Project SAINT is a small, selective, intensive, modified (non-credit) college experience for young adults under age 25 who have intellectual disabilities. SAINT students create a personal plan of 20 hours weekly of academics, vocational preparation and internships, independent living modules, and campus engagement and involvement. Access to mastery of assistive technology is also central to students’ plans.
What We Offer
• Participation in a range of SF classes
• Continuing education, adult education and community education options
• Enrollment in career development classes and workshops
• Participation in job internships
• Engagement in campus clubs and activities
• Accessing the wide range of SF facilities including the Zoo, Planetarium, Gym, Fine Arts Hall, Library and more.
“I have really enjoyed my time in the SAINT Program.
I enjoyed the opportunity to experience different classes such as English, language, computer, and dance classes.
I was able to achieve life goals. I learned about budgeting skills, how to understand recipes, and I practiced using the city bus with a mentor.
I also had CPR and First Aid training. Linda and Krista have been very supportive and helpful during my time in Project SAINT.”
- Vincent DeSalvo, SAINT participant, 2014-2016
Support is Key to Success
Project SAINT is a complete one to two year comprehensive program addressing a student’s life plans for independence. Employment is a central goal. Students receive up to ten hours weekly of academic and social mentorship from other SF students as supervised by a mentor coordinator. In addition, students receive ongoing individual and group counseling and advising.
Project SAINT has fees that cover the costs of all mentorship, staffing, class participation, student activity fees, books and materials. Scholarships are available to cover the base fees of Project SAINT and will be discussed individually.
How to Apply
Applicants to Project SAINT first apply to Adult Education and then are recommended for Project SAINT consideration. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis each term for Project SAINT.
The SAINT application procedure includes a questionnaire, documentation of disability, a student essay, references and an interview. A committee will then decide on acceptance.
To learn more or request an application, please contact Linda Mussillo at 352-381-3818 or linda.mussillo@sfcollege.edu.
COMMITMENT TO EQUAL ACCESS AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Santa Fe College (SF) is committed to maintaining a work and educational environment that embraces diversity and where no member of the college community is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subject to discrimination in any college program or activity based on: their race, ethnicity, national origin, color, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy status, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, political opinions or affiliations, or veteran status. This commitment applies to employees, volunteers, students, and, to the extent possible, to third parties, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, and the general public.
Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies or concerns about discrimination or harassment, including concerns about sexual harassment or sexual violence under Title IX, should be directed to SF’s Equity Officer and Title IX Coordinator, 3000 NW 83rd Street, R-Annex, Room 113, Gainesville, Florida 32606, 352-395-5950, equity.officer@sfcollege.edu.
SACSCOC ACCREDITATION STATEMENT
Santa Fe College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Santa Fe College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Santa Fe College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling 404-679-4500 or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
MC 10-2023