CHAARRITT IES
LIFT
Learning Independence
for Tomorrow
Kim Kuruzovich, co-founder and executive director of LiFT Academy and
LiFT University, and Keli Mondello, co-founder and chairman of the board,
are looking forward to the annual Derby-themed gala on May 19th.
Five years ago, five women developed a plan and a vision
for an exceptional educational program for children
with a wide variety of neuro-diversities including
autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, Asperger’s syndrome,
developmental delays and various learning disabilities.
The LiFT (Learning Independence for Tomorrow) founders
wanted an inclusive and accepting environment for children
to learn and grow, free from bullying. They wanted academic
expectations placed on each and every student, regardless
of abilities and learning differences. They believed that this
blend of education and life skills would prepare every child
for successful independence.
In January of 2013, the doors to LiFT Academy opened
with 17 students. Today in Seminole, they have more than
100 students and a post-secondary transitional program. It is
their hope that they can build a living community for the LiFT
graduates following Mother Teresa’s philosophy of “Dream
deep, for every dream precedes the goal.”
At LiFT, the inclusive setting and the advancement of
knowledge helps each student to reach his or her own
potential academically, and to develop the skills they need
128 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | MAY/JUNE 2018
to become independent by building character and confidence.
By discovering each student’s innate gifts and talents, they
are able to provide the students with the knowledge, skills
and confidence they will need to succeed as adults. In
addition to the academy, the founders have a vision for LiFT
University. This unique postsecondary school with balanced
academics focuses on life skills training, career experience
and socialization to empower those with neuro-diversities
toward successful independence.
Keli Mondello, co-founder and chair of the LiFT Academy
board of directors, has a three-year strategic plan, which
includes ensuring that all students are valued, respected and
have a sense of acceptance and belonging, thus propelling
LiFT to be the premier academic and transitional environment
for these students. 9
EDITOR’S NOTE: LiFT Academy will hold its fifth annual
Derby-themed gala, “Lift Your Spirits at the Preakness,” at the
St. Petersburg Coliseum on Saturday, May 19th. To attend, or for
more information about LiFT Academy, call (727) 258-7659, or
visit liftacademy.org.