On October 11, Perkins School for the Blind launched an online course in partnership with Harvard Extension School titled "Introduction to Inclusive Talent Acquisition". This news has taken many by surprise — why is a school for people who are blind setting out to instruct an audience of hiring managers and recruiters? But the connection is strong, because helping students make the transition to adulthood and living independently is a key priority for Perkins.
For many students, leaving Perkins is like jumping off a cliff. One day they are in a welcoming, supportive environment with extensive resources—and the next they are essentially on their own. And it’s particularly difficult when inadvertent barriers have been set up between HR professionals and these qualified candidates eager to connect with them.