Exploring Future Programs at Living the Dream University 

Living the Dream University (LDU) is a groundbreaking, nonprofit private university in Tennessee that empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through its future programs. Our mission is to provide higher education, vocational training, and life skills development in a supportive, inclusive environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

At LDU, students gain access to:

Academic and vocational programs are designed to foster independence and career readiness.

Residential living opportunities that promote community, responsibility, and self-growth.

Support services and inclusive campus life to ensure every student can achieve their full potential.

Founded by Blake Newsom, a worldwide author, nonprofit leader, and Ph.D. candidate in psychology, LDU was born to create a future where adults with special needs have the same access to quality education and opportunities as their peers. Blake previously founded a nonprofit serving the homeless community, providing essential resources and hope to individuals facing hardship.

With a strong foundation of advocacy, academic excellence, and community engagement, Living the Dream University is more than an institution—it’s a movement to redefine what’s possible for adults with special needs through our future programs.

Living the Dream University: Where potential meets opportunity through future programs. 

Living the Dream University

Expanding Education for Adults with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (I/DD)

Our Vision & Timeline

At Living the Dream University, we believe every learner deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education, career goals, and lifelong dreams. Over the next 20 years, we are building a comprehensive degree pathway for adults with I/DD.

 Timeline Goals

Years 1–5 (2027–2032)

• Secure authorization from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC)

• Launch pilot programs in postsecondary education.

Years 5–7 (2032–2034)

Introduce Associate Degrees (A.A., A.S.)

• Photography, Psychology, Business, Communications

Years 8–12 (2035–2039)

Expand into Bachelor’s Degrees (B.A., B.S.)

•  Communications, Psychology, Business Administration, Photography 

Years 13–16 (2040–2043)

Launch Master’s Programs (M.A., M.S.)

• Communications, Psychology, Business Administration, Photography 

Years 17–20 (2044–2047)

Establish Doctoral Programs (Ph.D., DPS)

• Psychology & Disability Studies

• Business & Social Innovation

• Arts & Inclusive Media

 Our Long-Term Goals

✔ Provide inclusive Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees.
✔ Ensure adults with I/DD have equal access to academic and career pathways.
✔ Build a supportive campus culture with wraparound services.
✔ Train future leaders, researchers, and advocates with lived experience.