Eighteen Fresno State Wayfinders students marched into the Satellite Student Union amid cheers from the many family and friends on hand to celebrate the class of 2025.
Taking their spots at the side of the stage at the June 26 celebration, each student was poised to spring from their seat as their opportunity to cross the stage drew near. The momentous occasion marked a significant milestone for the Wayfinders class of 2025. The annual ceremony recognizes students earning a Work Readiness and Life Skills Certificate as these students bid farewell to campus staff, workplace supervisors and friends they have met while attending Fresno State.
Wayfinders is a two-year program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Structured around the needs of each student, the program offers the experience of attending university courses, living in student apartments with peers, engaging in campus and community activities — all while honing professional skills through internships.
“It was a roller coaster of emotion to fight to get to the finish line. I had times that were fun and times that were difficult, which was OK because it was the [Wayfinders] coaches who made it worthwhile.”
Anisha Dunmore, Wayfinders class of 2025
The rigor of the program can be challenging at times for the students as time management, interpersonal communication and conflict resolution come into play as they navigate their time on campus. “…Coaches helped me grow from start to finish,” said student Anisha Dunmore, “…and your work ethic does not go unnoticed.”
During the farewell ceremony, each of the 18 program honorees addressed the audience with remarks reflecting their unique experiences as a part of Wayfinders. Through the joy and difficulties, each student consistently highlighted the support they received from the Wayfinders coordinators and coaches, their employers and their fellow students.
“[While] I learned a lot during my time here with Wayfinders… I will miss the program, my roommates… and hanging out with my coworkers and classmates,” student Jimmy Innenaga said.
The Wayfinders program helps instill students’ social skills, career preparation, healthy lifestyle habits, financial literacy and a host of other domains for leading an independent life.
“Programs like Wayfinders don’t just open doors for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — they shift societal expectations, build more inclusive communities, and empower young adults to contribute meaningfully to the workforce and their futures.”
Shail Lopez-Ortiz, Wayfinders executive director
For Wayfinders, the certificate earned by each student on stage is more than a paper — it’s a sense of freedom and an opportunity to forge ahead in a society that may not organically provide inclusive opportunities for the students.
Related video: Fresno State featured a Wayfinders student recognized during the event in a video in 2024. Revisit Spencer’s story on the university’s official YouTube channel.
