In 1987, Hope College started a student chapter of Council for Exceptional Children. Over the years CEC chapter has evolved into a strong service/learning organization. Our activities include service to the community as well as providing special learning events. One of the focal points each year includes student attendance at the annual Michigan CEC Conference. In many instances, students are able to hear, see and sometimes meet leading educators and celebrities from across the country.

Membership in CEC is optional for Hope College students, but those who choose to become actively involved gain far more than what they could have imagined. CEC members who attend state-level meetings often find themselves interacting with key professionals and Michigan Department of Education representatives and often establish relationships which are invaluable.

Even though CEC might be considered a special education-focused organization, involvement by non-special education majors are welcomed and encouraged. As the inclusion movement sweeps the country, every elementary and secondary general education teacher faces the challenges of working with persons who are physically, mentally, or emotionally challenged, and we know that involvement in CEC will be helpful to anyone.