Diocesan Leadership: CARA Survey Report

Wed, 02/12/2025 - 2:00pm EST to 3:30pm

In 2024, NCPD commissioned the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) at Georgetown University to conduct a survey, with follow up interviews, to gain a better understanding of parish disability awareness and practices across the United States. Diocesan leaders are invited to hear the results. Discussion will emphasize applications at the diocesan level. This meeting is specific to diocesan leadership. Others interested in learning the results are welcome to join our open data discussion in March.

Anyone requiring an ASL interpreter is asked to register prior to January 29, 2025.

Update 3-14-25: The full report is now available.

Elizabeth Potts, Ph.D.

Associate Director of Diocesan Relations

Beth Potts earned a Ph.D. in special education from the University of Virginia. She then spent 17 years training current and future teachers to teach learners with disabilities, most recently as an Associate Professor of Special Education at Missouri Western State University. As a special educator and an engaging and clear presenter, she has a wealth of experience helping people realize a host of realities about persons with disabilities. Most importantly, regarding how their full participation in the Church and society benefits everyone. Potts is an active volunteer in her home parish in Kansas City, MO, where she leads their mental health ministry, an area that has been a passion since her days working with learners with emotional and behavioral disabilities in the K-12 classroom.

Diocesan Leadership: CARA Survey Report

Elizabeth Potts, Ph.D.

National Catholic
Partnership on Disability

Advancing the Meaningful Participation
of Persons with Disabilities in Church and Society