DHS September lecture examines progress of former Hissom Center residents

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL --  More than 20 years ago the Hissom Memorial Center made headlines as Oklahoma began to change its support system for citizens with developmental disabilities. The folks who lived there moved into regular neighborhoods and a project was put into place to track their well-being.  The results from the “Quality Assurance Project” were dramatic—more positive than any other state.

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) will take a look at that project with Dr. James W. Conroy as part of its continuing Practice and Policy Lecture Series. “Oklahoma’s Triumph for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities:  Influencing the Whole World,” will be presented Tuesday, September 24th from noon to 1 p.m. at the Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive in Oklahoma City.

Conroy is an expert in the areas of disabilities, aging, child welfare and other human service fields. His work has been featured on shows including 60 Minutes, the ABC Evening News, and Nightline. He considers his work on the outcomes of deinstitutionalization to be his definitive contribution toward better lives for people with disabilities.

The Practice and Policy Lecture Series has been developed to provide thought-provoking presentations on Oklahoma's emerging policy issues, trends and best practices. The series is sponsored by the DHS Office of Planning, Research and Statistics and the University of Oklahoma Center for Public Management with the goal of providing the best educational opportunities available in a forum that offers participants an opportunity to question, share and learn from each other. 

All lectures are free and open to the public. For more information contact the Office of Planning, Research and Statistics at (405) 521-3552 or visit the Practice and Policy Lecture Series website 

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