New Management in the Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program

Authors: Keisha Rowe, Director, Office of Independence Services, Health and Human Services Commission

Keywords: Blind Children’s Program, blind, visually impaired, quality services

It is my pleasure to announce the selection of Lauren Cox as the Blind Children’s Program (BCP) Manager with the Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program. Cox, a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, has extensive knowledge of the program, having worked in various positions with BCP throughout the state. Prior to her tenure with BCP, she worked as a preschool teacher and as a vocational rehabilitation transition counselor. Cox’s breadth of experience makes her uniquely qualified to lead the BCP program into the future.

Cox believes in the potential and abilities of the children and families in our program. She is committed to ensuring each child receives high quality, individualized services to help them meet their needs, overcome barriers and reach their goals.

The BCP management team will continue working together to ensure that the children we serve receive the same high quality services that they have grown accustomed to over the years. While the program may undergo organizational changes, our commitment to the children we serve is unwavering. Our steadfast goal is to build upon the historical excellence of the program.

While we welcome new team leadership, we also say goodbye to a dear friend. After 21 years of doing what she calls “The best job on the planet,” Al’An Kesler retired from BCP on March 31, 2018. She requested that the following message be shared with our readers:

“To all of the children, families and professionals with whom I have had the honor of knowing and working, thank you for the most amazing and wonderful journey of my life. It has been a privilege and a gift to have traveled this road with you. You will continue to be in my heart and prayers forever.”

BCP continues to adapt to changing times and strives to consistently meet the needs of the children and families we serve. As we modify our program to meet demand and streamline services, the fundamental values and goals of BCP remain unchanged. We are committed to helping your child reach his or her maximum potential and become a gainfully employed adult. We will continue to assess any and all barriers your child may encounter along the way and will work with you to plan, develop and deliver services that will provide your child with the tools and skills he or she needs to overcome obstacles.

If you are interested in learning more about BCP or need help accessing services, please contact us:

512-438-2404
[email protected]
hhs.texas.gov/blind-childrens-program