CIP Brevard Melbourne, Florida

CIP Brevard is a specialized transition program in Melbourne, Florida assisting young adults on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and other learning differences to find success in college, employment, and independent living

Welcome to Melbourne, Florida the “High-Tech Capital of the Southeast”

Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, Florida, just an hour’s drive southeast of Orlando and conveniently located near the stunning beaches of the Atlantic Coast, CIP Brevard offers an unique and accommodating location for students seeking a transformative experience. 

With easy access to iconic attractions such as the Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World, our center provides an optimal blend of academic excellence and recreational opportunities. 

Whether delving into the marvels of space exploration or immersing themselves in the excitement of world-renowned theme parks, young adults at CIP Brevard are can maximize their educational journey in this vibrant and diverse region. Explore our comprehensive programs today!

1:2 STAFF-STUDENT Ratio

130 Social Activities
Annually

20-30 Hours of
Service Weekly

3.75 Cumulative GPA

91% Parent
Satisfaction Rating

96% Average Student
Attendance Rates

20 Hours Community Service Per Student

CIP Brevard
20 Years IN OPERATION

College Academic Support

College-age students with learning differences and autism who choose to pursue a course of study at a local college, university or vocational program receive individualized support and direction from CIP Brevard’s academic support team.

CIP Brevard is located directly across from Eastern Florida State College and close to University of Central Florida (UCF) and Florida Institute of Technology (FIT). CIP students can pursue degrees in a wide range of career and technical programs such as Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Education, Animal Care, Engineering and Fine Arts; all with expert support in a holistic program environment.

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Meet Our CIP Brevard Team

CIP Brevard has an experienced, professional staff with strong educational backgrounds and solid experience working with young adults with Autism, ADHD and other Learning Differences.

Jodi Drury, Ph.D.

Director of Curriculum and Training

Jodi has worked in the field of special education for over 20 years as a K-12 teacher and administrator, and as an adjunct professor at local universities and colleges.

Pierece Wade

Life Skills Coach

Pierece Wade is a dynamic and engaging Life Skills Coach.  He grew up in Brevard County, just minutes away from Cocoa Beach. He graduated in 2003 from Cocoa High School.  He attended Mesabi Range Technical & Community College in Virginia, Minnesota.  There he played NJCAA football representing the Norsemen. 

Diana Dodard, B.A.

Office Manager

Diana has worked in the field of autism since 2019 as a Registered Behavioral Technician and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist.

Kel Gilbert, M.A.

Assistant Program Director

Kel is a seasoned higher education professional with a decade of experience in student affairs. Over the course of their career, Kel has served in both administrative and instructional roles.

Brandie Busse, B.A., CAS

National Enrollment Specialist

Brandie is a certified autism specialist with over a decade and a half of experience in autism and related learning differences. She draws from her extensive background, having worked as a Behavior Analyst, Assistant Clinical Director, and Director at various institutions, including both private and public schools and autism clinics

Michael McManmon, Ed.D.

Founder

Michael McManmon, Ed.D. founded the College Internship Program (CIP) in 1984. He received a B.A. in English from Mt. St. Mary’s College in Maryland, a Masters in Counseling from Shippensburg University, a Masters in Human Development from the University of Kansas (through a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health), and a Doctorate in Special Education from the University of Nevada.

Eric Pomales, B.S.

Advisor

Eric has worked in the field of autism and mental health services since 2015 in various fields and organizations. He previously worked with children in residential treatment faculties as well as social work around Brevard County.

Ryan Therriault, MEd

Academic Coordinator

Ryan holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's in Education from the University of Central Florida. She joined the CIP team as Academic Coordinator in 2008, where she continues to apply her extensive skills and knowledge while embracing opportunities for ongoing learning.

Amber Witham, B.A.

Life Skills & Wellness Coordinator

Originally from New England, Amber has worked in the field of positive youth development and mental health for six years and now serves as the Life Skills & Wellness Coordinator here at CIP.

Tim Flay, M.Ed.

Program Director

Tim has worked in the educational field for 27 years as an educator, administrator, and consultant. He has also worked with the state of Florida in the areas of textbook evaluation and adoption, standards and curriculum development, and subject area certification assessment.

Alyssa McLean, M.A., CRC

Clinician

Alyssa McLean has worked in the field of disabilities for almost a decade as a lead teacher at a private school for students with disabilities, a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor, and now as a Clinician.

Alexandra Almanzar

Student Advisor

Alexa Almanzar has worked in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Student Success Coaching for 5 years as a case manager and student advisor where she developed a strong foundation in behavior analysis principles and techniques.

CIP Brevard Student Life

The Brevard Center is located in Brevard County, Florida’s Space Coast: America’s High-Tech Titan. Local big businesses include Harris Corporation, Northrup Gruman, Health First, Boeing, and Space X.

Supported Apartment Living

Our students reside in fully furnished housing located adjacent to Eastern Florida State College, just a short walk from the CIP offices and classrooms. Each student shares their living space with one to three roommates, enjoying the privacy of their own bedroom while sharing common areas such as bathrooms, kitchen, and living room. The central courtyard serves as a hub for socializing, offering a perfect setting for students to connect and unwind during evenings and weekends.

At CIP Brevard, we prioritize independent living skills. Our comprehensive support services within student housing include menu planning, grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, as well as assistance with time management and organization. Through these hands-on experiences, students develop essential real-life skills and routines, preparing them for success both during their time at CIP and beyond.

Internship, Job, and Career Readiness Support

At CIP Brevard, we specialize in empowering young adults with Asperger’s, autism, ADHD, and other learning differences, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the professional world. Our dedicated career department provides comprehensive support, ranging from resume development to personalized job coaching, ensuring that students receive the guidance they need to pursue their career aspirations.

Through our tailored approach to career preparation, CIP Brevard helps students cultivate valuable employment skills and explore their individual interests. We facilitate hands-on experiences such as volunteering, internships, and job placements, all of which are customized to meet each student’s unique strengths and goals. Our diverse range of internship and job opportunities encompasses fields such as animal care, performing arts and theater, sports, natural resources, and wildlife conservation.

With CIP Brevard’s individualized support, students gain the confidence and expertise necessary to embark on meaningful career paths.

Meet A Few CIP Brevard Students

CIP Brevard students come from all over and pursue their individual goals and dreams within the program. Meet a few students below:

Daniel P.

Dylan

Sheri

Danard

VIDEO: Spotlight on Success

Hear from CIP Brevard students and families share their personal journey, finding CIP, and experiencing success.

Call +1 (877) 566-9247 or fill our our online inquiry form to request assistance in finding a CIP location.