We are thrilled to share an exciting update with our community! Following a productive meeting with Katy Washington, the President of AHEAD and the ADA Coordinator at VCU, we have gained invaluable support for our initiative to enhance accommodations and foster inclusive higher education. This collaboration marks a significant step towards making important institutional changes that benefit students with disabilities at VCU.
One of the key objectives discussed in the meeting was the need to educate professors and improve adherence to accommodations. Working closely with the Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity (SAEO) office and ASDCC this summer, Katy Washington has committed to assisting us in designing and implementing impactful professor trainings at VCU. These trainings will raise awareness, provide guidance, and promote a better understanding of the diverse needs of students with disabilities among faculty members.
Katy Washington acknowledged the power of student voices in effecting institutional change. She expressed the importance of sharing firsthand experiences with faculty and staff to foster empathy, understanding, and collaboration. In line with this, we are thrilled to announce our upcoming student panel event, where students with disabilities and chronic conditions will have the opportunity to share their stories, challenges, and successes. This event aims to bridge the gap between professors and students, fostering a sense of shared understanding and leveling the playing field.
It is worth noting that student voices hold tremendous power when it comes to driving institutional change. While disability offices play a crucial role in providing support and guidance, the experiences and perspectives shared by students can often have a profound impact on policy development, awareness, and fostering a more inclusive campus environment. We encourage all members of our community, including ASDCC members, individuals from the broader disability community, and community organizations, to actively engage and contribute their voices to this important initiative.
We are delighted to have the support and commitment of the ADA office at VCU, represented by Katy Washington. This partnership marks the beginning of a transformative journey to improve accommodations and foster inclusivity for students with disabilities and chronic conditions. Remember, your voices are powerful catalysts for change, and together, we can create a more equitable and empowering educational experience at VCU.
