NW Valley Times

Jaden Lowery and Ray Chiago, alumni of the LOPES Academy at Grand Canyon University (GCU), have experienced significant changes in their lives thanks to the support of their mothers and the inclusive opportunities provided by the university. Both mothers, Serena Lowery and Mary Jane Mooney, shared their sons' journeys through the LOPES Academy and the impact the program has had on their families.

Jaden Lowery was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of five. Serena Lowery, his mother, recalled challenging times with his nonverbal communication and social interactions. She explained how her son expressed the desire to attend college after seeing his siblings pursue higher education and military careers. Serena recounted, "Jaden was so excited that now he could go to college -- just like his sisters and brothers."

The LOPES Academy program at GCU offered Jaden a chance to experience college, volunteering, and hands-on job training. Serena highlighted the positive impact, saying, "The teachers recognized that each student was different, and they brought out Jaden’s best attributes by establishing a routine while allowing flexibility." Jaden now works at the Lope Shop for GCU.

Ray Chiago and his twin brother, Roy, faced early challenges with a diagnosis of autism. Mary Jane Mooney took initiatives to provide the twins with early intervention and special education. When Ray was ready for the next step, Mary Jane found the LOPES Academy through a radio ad. She said, "He's so excited to go to work," describing Ray's transformation into a more social individual through the program.

After completing internships, Ray secured a job at the Chaparral Hall Lopes Mart convenience store. Mary Jane expressed relief and gratitude for the supportive environment at GCU: "I don’t have to worry about people being mean to Ray if he doesn’t understand things or if he doesn’t do things fast enough for the customer."

The stories of Jaden and Ray reflect the transformational impact of the LOPES Academy on their paths to independence and confidence. Both mothers expressed pride in their sons' accomplishments and the ways GCU's program has changed their lives.