Novartis Hosts Mentoring Day for West Morris Mendham Students With Disabilities

EAST HANOVER, N.J.– Over 100 high school students with disabilities visited Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation in East Hanover for National Disability Mentoring Day.

Students from 11 schools – including Hanover Park, Whippany Park, Morristown, Madison, Parsippany-Troy Hills and West Morris Mendham – participated.

National Disability Mentoring Day is an annual event that helps students with special needs "recognize that they have a role as part of a diverse future workforce and inspire them to think about possible future careers for themselves,"said Jean Gogarty of Novartis' Human Resources Communications Department.

According to Gogary, the students engaged in interactive career sessions, including a career fair with companies that hire people with disabilities and area colleges and universities with strong inclusion practices.

Students also heard from a panel of people with disabilities who have found success in their careers or personal lives, Gogary said.

Karen Gaffney, president of the Karen Gaffney Foundation, was the keynote speaker.

"Have the courage to dream big," she told the students. "Make the most of what you have been given. Then, call attention to what you have achieved."

Added NPC's Head of US Country Human Resources Caryn Parlavecchio: "Disability Mentoring Day is an opportunity for students to interact with colleges, universities, and potential employers who welcome and nurture people with different skills and talents. They hear from adults who have pursued their goals and found success. It is a day to encourage these students to have the courage to dream big."

National Disability Mentoring Day is sponsored nationally by the American Association of People with Disabilities, according to Gogary.

Photo courtesy Ravenwood Photographic