The transition from high school into adulthood is one of the most significant chapters in a student’s life, especially for those with learning differences. As graduation draws closer, we want our students to step forward not just with academic knowledge but also with self-knowledge: an understanding of how they learn, what supports them, and how to confidently advocate for their needs.

Last year, we introduced a special in-school event for our 8th–12th grade students called My Pathway to Success with Dyslexia, designed to support students during this important season of transition. Whether just beginning to think about high school or preparing for life after graduation, students have the opportunity to hear from adults in our community with dyslexia and other learning differences who have found their own unique paths to success. These speakers share both the challenges they faced and the turning points that helped them gain confidence, embrace their strengths, and understand how their minds work.

Community Leaders Inspire Students with Learning Differences

This year, we had the privilege of welcoming an inspiring group of community leaders who generously shared their time and their stories with our students.

The event was moderated by:

Dr. Ashley Mandeville – EPA parent and Associate Professor of Management, Lutgert College of Business, FGCU

Our panelists included:

Melissa Severance – Owner, Inspire Big Dreams & Disrupt HR
Dr. Meagan Baskin – Director, Southwest Florida Leadership Institute, FGCU
Chef Geoff Thomas – Executive Chef, Naples Princess

Each speaker shared openly about growing up with learning differences: the stress of reading aloud in class, the frustration of not being understood, and even the moments of feeling alone or failing. One panelist spoke about crying before reading aloud in class or faking being sick to avoid the stress. Another described failing a grade and feeling apathetic, thinking maybe that was just “how it would always be.”

But what made these stories so powerful was the hope woven through them. Each speaker reflected on the strategies that helped them succeed: using audiobooks, pictures, structured routines, and learning to advocate for themselves. They talked about their strengths: their creativity, big-picture thinking, determination, and their ability to solve problems quickly.

Chef Geoff described his “Ferrari brain” as fast and powerful but with no trunk space, able to process quickly but not always able to hold onto details. He explained that using tools like calendars and timers has been essential for him, and he encouraged students that being different does not mean being less.

Dr. Meagan Baskin reflected, “I needed to learn how I learn.” She shared how discovering the right tools and strategies allowed her to thrive. Dr. Baskin encouraged students to reframe the way they think about the supports they use from ‘accommodations’ to ‘tools for success’.

Melissa Severance spoke about learning to advocate for herself in the workplace. She shared how she now leans into her strengths such as volunteering for speaking roles and using her creativity, while also being honest about her challenges, like asking others to proofread her work. Her message showed students that success often comes when we stop hiding our differences and start building teams and environments that support how we work best.

One of the most powerful moments came when a student asked, “When did you overcome your struggles?” The panelists answered: it’s a lifelong journey. There isn’t a finish line. It’s about continuing to learn what works, building new strategies, and growing in understanding of yourself.

A Message of Hope for Students and Families

One of the main themes woven throughout the panel was the importance of connection. Dr. Ashley Mandeville continually reminded students that none of us succeeds alone, and that building supportive relationships is a vital part of every success story.

At Educational Pathways Academy, we want families to know: you and your student are not alone. We see their struggles, their gifts, and their incredible potential. We are here to walk alongside you, helping your student build strategies that truly work and preparing them for life after high school. Whether that path leads to college, a career, or other meaningful opportunities, we are here to support them every step of the way.

We are deeply grateful to Dr. Ashley Mandeville and our panelists, Dr. Meagan Baskin, Chef Geoff Thomas, and Melissa Severance, for investing in our students and sharing their stories so openly. We also want to thank our families for partnering with us and for the privilege of working together to support your students as they discover their strengths and their own unique pathways to success.