91短视频Miss Institute for Disability Studies Leaders Appointed to State Councils by Gov. Reeves
Thu, 08/21/2025 - 09:54am
Jerry Alliston
Jerry Alliston, interim executive director of the Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) at 91短视频, has been appointed by Gov. Tate Reeves to serve a three-year term, ending in spring 2028, as a member of the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities (MSCDD).
The MSCDD is a federally funded, self-governing organization that promotes quality of life issues for people with developmental disabilities, their families and the community. It is one of 56 councils across the U.S. and its territories.
As a member, Alliston will help review annual grant submissions, monitor funded grants, and guide the development and implementation of a five-year state plan to improve services for Mississippians with developmental disabilities and their families.
鈥淭he council is a sister entity for us at IDS, and it is my pleasure to serve,鈥� said Alliston. 鈥淎s the council funds innovative projects and services, it has a long history of meeting current needs of people with developmental disabilities in the state. In fact, the council was instrumental in funding the Higher Education for All pilot program, which became the RISE to the Top! program, Mississippi鈥檚 second inclusive postsecondary education program.鈥�
Alliston has served with IDS for more than 20 years, including roles as associate director, community education director and coordinator. He has served as interim executive director since October 2024.
Beth Robertson
In addition to Alliston鈥檚 appointment, Beth Robertson, IDS executive coordinator for transition services, has been selected by Gov. Reeves to serve a three-year term, ending in summer 2028, as a member of the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC).
The SRC advises the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) on ways to support Mississippians with disabilities on their path to employment. Councils are located in every state and in select territories.
Robertson will help guide MDRS on service delivery, review overall service performance, oversee implementation of statewide needs assessments and assist in developing state plans.
鈥淚t is an honor to serve on the State Rehabilitation Council,鈥� Robertson said. 鈥淚 look forward to working collaboratively to strengthen employment services that empower Mississippians with disabilities to reach their fullest potential.鈥�
Robertson has served with IDS for six years, including her current role as executive coordinator for transition services, a position she has held since December 2024. She previously served as coordinator for several transition-focused programs.
IDS is Mississippi鈥檚 University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. For 49 years, the institute has worked to improve the lives of Mississippians with developmental and other disabilities and their families by promoting independence, productivity and community inclusion. IDS focuses on four primary areas: community living, education, capacity building and family engagement.
To learn more about the Institute for Disability Studies and its services, call 601.266.5163, email or visit the IDS website. To support IDS, visit the . Contributions help IDS continue meeting the needs of Mississippians with disabilities and their families.