For years, Katelyn Kaechele’s future after high school felt overwhelming. Then she spent a week living on a college campus.
“I didn’t see her going away to college and living in a dorm right after high school,” her mom Jamie said. “The Huskies BELONG program helped us picture what could be possible.”
Katelyn was among a group of college-bound high school students with disabilities participating in Huskies BELONG, a free immersive experience designed to prepare students for college life and careers in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM). Participants work with program staff over the course of a year during the end of their junior year and beginning of their senior year in high school. Activities take place both online and on campus at NIU throughout the year.
The program represents the culmination of nearly a decade of work for Professor Bryan Dallas, NIU College of Health and Human Sciences , who began envisioning a college-prep program for students with disabilities shortly after joining NIU.
“Individuals with disabilities are underrepresented in the workforce, particularly in STEAM career fields,” said Dallas. “Supporting the transition to college is one key piece in helping change that.”
Since 2023, Huskies BELONG has received $677,800 in grant funding from the Illinois Community College Board, including $199,800 awarded for the current year. Dallas and Professor Shupei Yuan, NIU College of 
Liberal Arts and Sciences, are currently the co-principal investigators on the grant.
The program is open for any high school student with a disability who is planning to attend college and has an interest in pursuing a STEAM career.
The weeklong residential summer camp experience gives students a chance to step into independence and practice skills they will need in college. They learn to navigate new environments, communicate their needs, and advocate for themselves.
“College students with disabilities often have to take charge of supports that were previously provided for them,” he said. “The camp gives them practice with self-advocacy and helps prepare them for success.”
For Katelyn, who has a visual impairment, mild cerebral palsy and epilepsy, traditional college visits and presentations were often overwhelming. Huskies BELONG offered a hands-on, supportive experience that allowed her to explore college life in a way she could fully engage with.
“Something hands-on helps tremendously,” Jamie said. “The Huskies BELONG program had so many layers to it, and the staff took the time to really understand Katelyn’s individual needs.”
That attention made a difference. Program staff worked closely with the family to ensure any medical concerns were addressed and that Katelyn felt safe and supported throughout the week.
“The team went above and beyond,” Jamie said. “I was beyond grateful she could just enjoy the experience.”
During the week long summer camp, students follow full schedules that blend academic, independent living, and social and recreational activities. They explore careers and participate in hands-on projects with faculty from the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, work with NIU Libraries staff and meet with Career Services and disability support professionals to learn about assistive technology. 
Katelyn admitted she was hesitant at first.
“I didn’t know what to expect,” she said. “But it gave me so much more confidence with being in a dorm and being on campus. I went in hesitant and left telling my mom I could stay for another week.”
STEAM activities include programming Sphero robots, coding with Python in Minecraft Education
Edition and 3D printing. Outside the classroom, students take part in therapeutic horseback riding, animal encounters and evening activities such as esports, tie-dyeing and recreation center time.
“It made me step outside of my comfort zone and try new things,” Katelyn said. “I loved all things tech, and it was nice to see all of the extracurricular things you can do.”
After the camp, Huskies BELONG continues throughout students’ senior year. Participants meet online with program staff and partners to receive help with college and financial aid applications, work resume building, job interview preparation and planning for personal care and accommodations.
“Having a team to connect with during her senior year has been wonderful,” Jamie said. “It’s helped her feel more secure and more open to exploring her future.”
Huskies BELONG is currently accepting applications and the summer residential camp will take place July 19-24, 2026. Any college bound Illinois high school student with a disability, currently in their junior year (Class of 2027), is welcome to apply. The program is free for participants, however space is limited. To learn more, register for our virtual Zoom presentation that takes place on Tuesday, March 31 at 5:30 p.m. or reach out to bdallas@niu.edu or 815-752-8389 with your questions.
