The mission of the Human Development Center is to promote knowledge and practices related to enhancing the realization of human potential.  Our approach focuses on interdisciplinary and interagency collaboration.  A special emphasis of the Center is on developing and sharing information about effective services and supports for people with disabilities through activities of the Louisiana University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.  The Center also operates specialized projects and the Department of Interdisciplinary Human Studies.

This Center is recognized as a statewide resource and is known for its clear emphasis on addressing "the whole person in his/her environment".  We appreciate that each of us is affected by our circumstances of health, behavior, and social context, therefore, we pay close attention to the appropriate principles and practices.  Our scope of activities includes promoting understanding and use of validated practices while addressing issues across the entire age span. 

To accomplish this mission and scope of work, we employ an interdisciplinary faculty along with topical specialists, including individuals with disabilities and family members, and support staff.  These folks do research, provide technical assistance, teach courses and workshops, and engage in a wide range of activities to support those who provide services and to achieve constructive changes in agencies and systems.  All these activities are intended to bring about better services, more opportunities, and improved quality of life for Louisiana citizens.

See an Overview of HDC Operational Model, Working Concepts, and Strategies..