BELL is a certificate program at Roberts Wesleyan University for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students take part in real college life while building academic, social, and career skills rooted in character and purpose.
Bridge to Earning, Learning, and Living (BELL)
BELL is an inclusive certificate program designed to give students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience higher education.
BELL is offered through a partnership between Roberts Wesleyan University, CP Rochester, and Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES.
Spots are limited in this competitive program! To apply, please download and fill out the application, then email Mikaela Tenny, Program Director, at tenny_mikaela@roberts.edu.
Program Director Mikaela Kenny with a group of BELL students
Who Should Apply?
Individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) who:
- Are motivated to grow in independence, confidence, and self-advocacy
- Want authentic college experiences on a supportive campus
- Are interested in exploring career paths through hands-on, vocational experiences
- Benefit from individualized support while learning alongside peers
- Value being part of a caring community that emphasizes character, purpose, and contribution
Information for Students
Earn a Certificate of Completion
You’ll complete the BELL Program with a certificate of completion, recognizing your growth in academic, social, and vocational skills.
Be Part of Campus Life
From classes to chapel and social events and activities, meet new friends and enjoy life as a college student.
Learn Transferable Skills
Learn skills to help you build habits that lead to employment and independence.
Support That Knows You
Your goals matter. Staff and peer mentors walk with you every step of the way.
Information for People In the Circle of Support
parents, family, counselors, care coordinators
Program Cost
The 2026-2027 Cost for this program is $6,525.00
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.studentaid.gov, available on December 1st for the following academic year. The Federal school code for Roberts is 002805. Applying for the FAFSA also helps you determine if you eligible for the federal Pell Grant!
All students working with CP Rochester must apply for FAFSA, in order to consider using Self-direction funds and or being considered for scholarship funds from CP Rochester or Roberts Wesleyan University.
Important Dates
Application Due Date
January 19, 2026
Shadow Day
February 11, 2026
All applicants are expected to visit campus and participate in a day of the program. This will help determine if the interview process will move forward.
In-Person Interviews
February 25, 2026
Decisions Mailed
The first week of March 2026
In-Person Orientation
August 2026
To apply, please download and fill out the application, then email Mikaela Tenny, Program Director, at tenny_mikaela@roberts.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
BELL is designed for students who want to grow in independence and confidence, enjoy learning alongside peers, and benefit from personalized support on a Christian campus that values service and community.
Students graduate with a Certificate of Completion. It reflects growth in academic skills, social development, and vocational readiness, skills that support life after the program.
What does campus life look like?
Students attend classes, participate in chapel, join activities, and build relationships. It’s an authentic college experience, with support woven in every step of the way.
How many students are in each cohort?
We have a cap of 12 students per year.
How is BELL different from the ARCH Program?
One of the main differences between the ARCH Program and the BELL Program is that the ARCH program typically lasts 4 years, whereas the BELL program typically lasts 2 years.
The BELL program is in partnership with BOCES 2 and CP Rochester, whereas the ARCH program is open to any individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Could a student do both ARCH and BELL?
Yes! After graduating from BELL, there is an opportunity to continue your higher education experience through the ARCH program. Your BELL team will provide guidance.
If the individual is entering through Monroe BOSCES 2, yes, transportation is provided through their home school district.
If the individual is entering through CP Rochester as a Day Hab student, transportation is provided. If the individual receives Comm Hab services, they need to organize their own transportation.
Roberts Wesleyan University is not on an RTS access line.
Contact Information
For general information
Mikaela Tenny
BELL Program Director at Roberts Wesleyan University
585.594.6610
tenny_mikaela@roberts.edu
For Students working with Monroe 2-Orleans Boces
Christine Farrell
Supervisor, Exceptional Children/SPED at Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES
585.617.2457
cfarrell@monroe2boces.org
For students working with CP Rochester
Laurie Gendron
Consumer Care Coordinator at CP Rochester
585.334.6000 x2281
lgendron@cprochester.org