University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

 University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs) are federally designated organizations housed within universities across the United States, dedicated to advancing policy, practice, and research to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Established under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) of 1963 and subsequently supported through the Administration for Community Living (ACL) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, UCEDDs were created to serve as national hubs for pre-service training and continuing education, community service (including technical assistance and direct services), research and evaluation, and dissemination of best practices and innovations related to developmental disabilities. Through these functions, UCEDDs support individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving independence, productivity, and full participation in all aspects of community life. By leveraging partnerships with people with disabilities, families, policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups, UCEDDs act as bridges between academia and real-world impact—ensuring that programs, supports, and policies are grounded in evidence and informed by the voices of those they serve. There are currently 67 UCEDDs—at least one in every U.S. state and territory—each tailored to meet the needs of its local and regional communities while contributing to national efforts. The University of Tennessee Center on Developmental Disabilities has been a UCEDD for over 50 years.