About Bios
Bridget Barahona Noel
Bridget Barahona-Noel is the founder and president of Ascend Transition Services Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting adults with moderate to severe intellectual and developmental disabilities in Southwest Florida. With over a decade of experience in special education, Bridget holds a bachelor's degree in Special Education from Florida Gulf Coast University and a master's in Autism Studies from Florida International University. Currently she is a Doctoral Candidate, with a projected graduation date of 2026, her degree will be focused on Organizational Leadership emphasis on Special Education. Her passion lies in creating lifelong opportunities for individuals with disabilities through life skills education, vocational training, and community accessibility. Under her leadership, Ascend has grown rapidly, expanding services and launching initiatives focused on inclusion, independence, and empowerment.