Three Westminster College elementary education majors presented "The Classroom as Gracious Space" at the Pennsylvania Council for Exceptional Children conference Nov. 11-12 in State College.

Junior Kristen Fedon is a daughter of John and Linda Fedon of Lower Burrell and a graduate of Evangel Heights Christian Academy.

Junior Richelle Tittiger is a daughter of Richard and Maria Tittiger of Ambridge and a graduate of Ambridge Area High School.

Senior Timothy Wolf is a son of Sandra Wolf of South Park and a graduate of South Park High School.

The oral presentation shared the results of a small research study conducted with parents of children who were dually diagnosed with autism and mental health issues. The study gathered information on the strengths and needs of an early intervention program to allow administrators, teachers, and staff to modify the program based on the parents' input.

The students received travel/presentation grants from Westminster's Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning.

The Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning was created to enrich undergraduate education at Westminster through advancing world-class teaching as well as by participating in collaborations that address community and regional needs including strengthening K-12 education. The Undergraduate Research Initiative provides funding for students to conduct research and to present their research at regional and national conferences. Visit www.westminster.edu/drinko for additional information about the Drinko Center and its programs.

Contact Dr. Amy Camardese, associate professor and chair of Westminster's Department of Education, at (724) 946-7183 or e-mail camardah@westminster.edu for additional information.