IMPACT Innovation at IDD Education Center celebrates milestone
Adrian Durban Florist has been a dedicated community partner
The IDD Education Center’s IMPACT Innovation program continues to create meaningful employment opportunities for adults with autism, equipping them with the skills and experience needed for competitive jobs. The program is proud to celebrate a major milestone: one of its outstanding associates, Haley Popolin, has secured a position at Adrian Durban Florist, a long-time community partner of the center.
Haley, excited to start her new position at Adrian Durban Florist. Photo/provided.
IMPACT Innovation offers a year-round program focused on lifelong learning, healthy living, and vocational exploration on the University of Cincinnati campus. Created in response to state and federal initiatives promoting integrated employment for individuals with disabilities, IMPACT Innovation fosters independence, skill development, and workplace readiness. Through hands-on training and strong community partnerships, the program provides individuals with the tools necessary to achieve personal and professional success.
Haley’s mother, Becky Popolin, shared how the IMPACT program has been instrumental in her daughter's journey:
"Haley joined the IMPACT program five years ago after it was recommended by a former student worker who believed it would be a great fit for her needs. Through IMPACT, Haley has improved her communication and life skills, developed more independence, and gained the confidence to secure a position at Adrian Durban Florist."
"We are absolutely thrilled that Adrian Durban Florist has offered Haley a position. They have given her the opportunity to express her creativity, and she is so proud of her accomplishments. This experience allows her to spread joy and happiness, which she loves. We deeply appreciate the Adrian Durban employees for their patience and support, helping Haley grow along the way. We are incredibly proud of her and the progress she has made with the help of IMPACT and Adrian Durban Florist. We’re excited that she will continue contributing to society and engaging with the community—something that brings her so much joy."
Haley’s achievement is a testament to the impact of the IMPACT Innovation program and the commitment of both the IDD Education Center and its partners in advancing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Genna Kieper, director of IMPACT Innovation, emphasized the importance of mentorship and coaching in Haley’s success:
“Haley has worked hard to build independence at her internship over time with the support of job coaching from our IMPACT student workers. Through utilizing evidence-based practices provided in our staff training, IMPACT’s job coaches assist our associates in learning workplace-specific skills and advancing soft skills that can lead to competitive, integrated employment for individuals with IDD. Their collaboration and ongoing instruction have empowered Haley to work with confidence and accuracy!”
Adrian Durban Florist has been a dedicated community partner of the IDD Education Center, offering hands-on learning experiences in a welcoming and supportive environment. Their commitment helps individuals like Haley gain meaningful workforce experience while pursuing their passions.
Haley herself shared her excitement about her new role:
"I like working at the flower shop because it makes me happy and excited," said Haley. "I love making flower bouquets, and my favorite flowers are pink roses."
Haley Popolin
The IDD Education Center remains committed to expanding employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The success of IMPACT Innovation highlights the vital role of community partnerships in building a better workforce.
For more information about IMPACT Innovation or to become a community partner, please visit our website at the IDD Education Center.
Featured image at top: Closeup of colorful spring flowers in a bouquet. Photo courtesy of Adrian Durban Florist
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
From research to resume: Grad Career Week prepares students for career paths
February 20, 2026
Graduate students at the University of Cincinnati will explore how their academic and creative work translates into professional success during Grad Career Week, March 2–6, a week-long series of workshops, networking opportunities, and skill-building sessions hosted by the Graduate College.
Social media linked to student loneliness
February 20, 2026
Inside Higher Education highlighted a new study by the University of Cincinnati that found that college students across the country who spent more time on social media reported feeling more loneliness.
Discovery Amplified expands research, teaching support across A&S
February 19, 2026
The College of Arts & Sciences is investing in a bold new vision for research, teaching and creative activity through Discovery Amplified. This initiative was launched through the Dean’s Office in August 2024, and is expanding its role as a central hub for scholarly activity and research support within the Arts & Sciences (A&S) community. Designed to serve faculty, students, and staff, the initiative aims to strengthen research productivity, foster collaboration, and enhance teaching innovation. Discovery Amplified was created to help scholars define and pursue academic goals while increasing the reach and impact of A&S research and training programs locally and globally. The unit provides tailored guidance, connects collaborators, and supports strategic partnerships that promote innovation across disciplines.