LSU Changemaker and Special Education Expert, A. P. Tureaud, Jr., Shares Passion for Education with LSU Students

What Inclusion Means to Me...Journey thru the Eyes of A. P. Tureaud, Jr., LSU Integration Trailblazer, Retired Director of Special Education, and Education Consultant

Over the next decade, about 33,500 openings for special education teacher positions are predicted each year.

The need for educators is stronger than ever to guarantee the future successes of our youth.

On March 5, 2024, the CHSE Office of Advocacy, Collaboration & Engagement hosted A. P. Tureaud, Jr., to engage in insightful discussion about inclusive education and intellectual disabilities. Tureaud, Jr., discussed his passion for education and ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to learn, regardless of physical capability.

Tureaud, Jr. is the epitome of a changemaker. He was the first black undergraduate student to attend LSU in 1953, after his father sued the university for admission. Despite adversities he faced, which were many, Tureaud, Jr., developed a strong devotion to ensuring that all children with disabilities received equal and fair opportunities within their schools. Tureaud, Jr., taught for 10 years in schools in New Orleans, Washington D.C., and New York, and served as director of special education in the White Plains New York Public School system for 26 years. Special education was his life’s work and his passion.

Tureaud, Jr., consistently focuses his efforts upon guaranteeing that no student receives the unjust treatment that he did, especially students with disabilities, as all children should have the right to an education, regardless of outward appearances.

Tureaud, Jr., encouraged future LSU educators to drop the labels and treat their fellow students with respect, regardless of differences.

Moderated by Dean Roland Mitchell, Tureaud, Jr., shared his experiences and insights gained from his extensive career in special education. The panel also featured esteemed individuals including:

Paul Mooney, PhD | Professor of Special Education at the LSU Lutrill & Pearl Payne School of Education

Willie Louviere | Director of LSU Integrative Community Studies

Anne Stuckey Williams, MSW, LCSW-BACS | Assistant Professor of Professional Practice at the LSU School of Social Work

and other LSU and community representatives.

This event hosted 75 attendees, including LSU students, professors, and staff.