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How Can Employers Better Recruit & Retain College Talent with Disabilities? | Aug. 13, 2026

July 2026
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As organizations compete for early career talent, college students and recent graduates with disabilities remain one of the most overlooked talent pools. Many employers are eager to hire this emerging workforce but struggle to build meaningful campus connections, create accessible recruiting experiences, and retain new hires once they join the organization.

Drawing on insights from NOD research, this session explores practical strategies for strengthening disability-inclusive campus recruiting, building partnerships with colleges and universities, and creating workplace cultures where early career talent can thrive.

SESSION FOCUS WILL EXPLORE:

  • Why students with disabilities remain an underutilized source of early career talent
  • How employers can strengthen partnerships with career services, disability services, and campus organizations
  • Practical ways to create more accessible recruiting, interviewing, and internship experiences
Featuring:

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, Aug. 13
Time: 1:00-1:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom

Closed captioning will be available via Zoom. To request any other accommodations, please email: Events@NOD.org
MODERATOR
Lorena Headshot
Lorena Chelaru

Human Resources & Operations Manager

Lorena Chelaru is Human Resources & Operations Manager at NOD, leading HR initiatives and operational excellence. She brings experience in program evaluation, youth development, and community engagement, with degrees in Community Development, Planning, and Psychology.

PANELIST
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Margaret Ling

Senior Manager, Partnerships

Margaret Ling is Senior Manager of Partnerships at NOD, advising Leadership Council members on disability inclusion. She leads NOD’s Virtual Career Fair, connecting students and alumni with disabilities to employers, and manages Workforce Solutions initiatives that help organizations build more inclusive workplaces.