Determination Rewarded: A Georgia Southern University IPSE graduate soars, thanks to assistance from GVRA
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Tristan Skipper has always loved sports, especially football. After finishing high school, he knew he wanted to seek employment in a sports-related field. Tristan’s parents learned about GVRA through his school counselors. The counselors explained how GVRA could support Tristan’s transition from high school into college and eventual employment.
Armed with that knowledge, Tristan applied, and was accepted into, an Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE) program offered by Georgia Southern University (GSU) in Statesboro, Georgia. The Equal Access to Gainful Learning and Employment (EAGLE) Academy is the IPSE program offered by Georgia Southern. As a certified comprehensive transition program for young adults with disabilities, it’s a two-year certificate program of study that includes instruction in independent living skills.
Dan Cain, program director at the EAGLE Academy, emphasized Tristan’s valuable contributions during his two years as a participant in the program. “Tristan completed the program with EAGLE Academy in May 2025. His area of concentration was sports/coaching,” Cain explained. “During his time on campus, Tristan worked as an equipment manager with the Georgia Southern Eagles football team. Serving in that equipment manager role engendered a sense of community; it enabled him to be part of the team’s success.”
Financial Support from GVRA Contributes to Tristan’s Academic Success
Tristan’s college experience at GSU was partially funded through aid from GVRA. Because the EAGLE Academy is an IPSE program, Tristan benefitted from the $3,000/per semester Pre-Employment Transition Services funding GSU receives as part of providing IPSE programming.
When asked to comment on college life, Tristan said, “I enjoyed working with the coaching staff, especially in football as an Equipment Manager. I liked being part of a team environment, supporting the athletes, and contributing behind-the-scenes to the success of the football program. My day-to-day responsibilities included managing athletic equipment inventory and distribution, preparing and maintaining gear, and assisting the coaching staff with equipment needs.”
“GVRA has been truly life-changing for Tristan,” said Coledia Skipper, Tristan’s mom. “Through GVRA’s guidance, resources, and unwavering support, Tristan was able to experience college like any other student. He was able to work in his chosen field while on campus at GSU and build the confidence he needs to succeed in the workforce,” she added.
While attending EAGLE Academy, Tristan also mentored incoming students. He said he enjoyed sharing his college experiences with the new students and helping them navigate campus life.
Around age five Tristan was diagnosed with a chromosome disorder known as 8p23. Individuals with chromosome disorder 8p23 may experience learning, communication, and coordination challenges. Through early intervention, educational accommodations, and vocational support, individuals with 8p23 disorder can lead fulfilling lives. They can attend college, maintain employment, and serve their communities.
“The GVRA staff believed in Tristan’s abilities and helped him focus on his strengths while providing the right supports along the way,” exclaimed Skipper. “Despite having some obstacles to overcome, Tristan has never abandoned his love of sports. I would absolutely recommend GVRA to any family or individual seeking services—the staff doesn’t just open doors, they help young adults walk through them as prepared and confident individuals.”
Tristan Sets his Sights on Coaching
Tristan agrees with his mom’s assessment of the agency’s services. He mentioned the services he receives through GVRA are high-quality and consistent. “These services allowed me to experience college like any other student and helped prepare me for meaningful employment and community involvement,” he shared. “I have participated in GVRA services for approximately five years, and I continue to benefit from support the agency offers.”
After completing the certificate program at GSU, Tristan accepted a position working in food service support at the Appling County High School cafeteria in Baxley, Georgia. His duties include assisting with meal preparation, maintaining cleanliness standards, supporting cafeteria operations, and working as part of a team to serve students efficiently. Although he is currently not working in sports, he hopes to make a move to the athletics department at the school. His goal is to someday be part of the coaching staff.
When Cain, the EAGLE Academy program director, learned that Tristan would be featured in GVRA’s Success Story Series, he said, “This news is not a surprise to me, since Tristan was an influential and enthusiastic student throughout our whole College of Education building. We miss him greatly, and we wish him the best as he pursues his career aspirations!”
