Kupferman invited to Geneva as United Nations delegate
Scott Kupferman, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Special Education Program Coordinator, recently visited Geneva, Switzerland in his role as United Nations (UN) delegate.
Kupferman was invited to be a delegate because of his extensive international efforts in research and work improving accessibility in technology for individuals with disabilities, including collaborations in over 40 countries and his appointment as a Fulbright scholar in Japan.
The delegate role, spanning from Nov. 2023 to March 2024, includes two UN initiatives.
“The first initiative, the United Nations Social Forum of the Human Rights Council, focused on the contribution of science, technology and innovation to the promotion of human rights, including in the context of post-pandemic recovery,” Kupferman explained. “I shared my research related to the development of innovative accessible technology for people with disabilities.”
“The second initiative was the United National Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (UNCRPD), with my role focused on supporting countries as they work to meet/exceed international standards,” he added. “The standards relate to key aspects of a meaningful life for people with disabilities, including improving educational access, expanding gainful employment opportunities, and ensuring full participation in society. The standards are similar to the Americans with Disabilities Act, but have broader international connections and implications.”
Though the trip overall was a great experience for Kupferman, the collaborative opportunities and desserts were especially memorable.
“I enjoyed collaborating with other delegates, leaders, and policy makers from around the world,” he shared. “During my down time, a favorite experience was eating meals in the UN cafeteria, where I counted at least six languages being spoken around me, while enjoying plenty of fondue and Swiss chocolate!”
Kupferman hopes to extend opportunities like this to UCCS students in the future as well.
“I plan to apply for travel and stipend-related funding for UCCS students who are interested in working internationally, engaging with leaders and policy makers, and broadening their global understanding of disability,” he said.
About the UCCS College of Education
The College of Education offers undergraduate and advanced degrees, initial and advanced licenses and additional endorsements across three departments: Teaching and Learning, Counseling and Human Services and Leadership, Research, and Foundations. The college is home to more than 1,000 students and offers 12 bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and doctoral degrees. The UCCS College of Education is authorized by the state of Colorado to offer educator preparation and school counseling programs. Our graduate-level counseling programs in school counseling and clinical mental health are accredited by CACREP – the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs. Our undergraduate Human Services program is accredited by the CSHSE – Council for Standards in Human Service Education. To learn more, please reach out to education@uccs.edu.