¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä

At the University of Colorado Boulder, Disability Services is transforming the campus into a more inclusive, supportive environment. Through innovative programs, strategic improvements, and collaborative efforts, the team is redefining what accessibility and empowerment look like for students with disabilities. Here’s a look at how Disability Services has made an impact over the past year.Ìý

Creating Space for Connection and SuccessÌý

This year, Disability Services launched Access+, a first-of-its-kind student center dedicated to enhancing the experience of students with disabilities at ¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä Boulder. Officially opened in September 2024, the space fosters community, provides essential resources, and offers a haven where students can thrive both academically and socially.Ìý

Access+ is more than just a physical space; it’s a cornerstone for connection and empowerment. With flexible seating, sensory-friendly lighting, and tools like fidget toys and study aids, the center meets diverse needs. Hosting more than 17 events in its first two months, it has become a hub for community and support. Disability Services also collaborates with other Health and Wellness teams to offer recurring programs like Wellness Wednesdays, meditation sessions, and movie screenings.Ìý

By creating a dedicated space for connection, advocacy, and support, Access+ embodies Disability Services’ mission to empower students with disabilities. It fills a vital gap on campus and sets a new standard for inclusivity and accessibility at ¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä Boulder.Ìý

Highlighting Disability as Diversity: The Annual Disability SymposiumÌý

For the second year in a row, Disability Services supported the College of Arts and Sciences to host the Disability Symposium, a six-day event showcasing the experiences of individuals with disabilities on campus. With a 119% increase in participation, the 2024 symposium attracted 398 attendees, including students, faculty, and staff.Ìý

This year’s keynote speaker, renowned scientist Temple Grandin, shared insights on navigating life as a person with autism and her global impact on animal agriculture. The event also featured workshops on universal design, self-advocacy, and navigating higher education systems with a disability. Survey feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 85% of respondents strongly agreeing that the symposium should continue.Ìý

A key aspect of the symposium’s success lies in its organization. While Disability Services plays a vital role, the event is led by the College of Arts and Sciences and a diverse committee. This ensures disability representation extends beyond compliance-driven offices, fostering a broader cultural shift across campus and emphasizing shared responsibility in celebrating disability as diversity.Ìý

Increasing Efficiency at the Student Testing CenterÌý

The Student Testing Center saw a major upgrade this year with the installation of cameras, enhancing efficiency and capacity. A single proctor can now oversee up to five testing rooms and 32 students simultaneously, compared to five proctors previously needed.Ìý

The improvements have streamlined operations, enabling last-minute requests and expanded testing accommodations like extended exam times and distraction-reduced environments. With 14 testing rooms accommodating up to 112 students at once, the Testing Center is poised for continued growth and operational excellence.Ìý

Streamlining Housing, Dining, and Parking AccommodationsÌý

Disability Services revamped its Housing, Dining, and Parking Accommodations process, improving response times and communication. From mid-August to October 2024, the team handled 650 requests—a 25% increase over the previous year’s total. Despite this surge, the team has maintained a 10-business-day turnaround for processing, ensuring students receive timely support.Ìý

The streamlined process reflects Disability Services’ commitment to continuous improvement, helping students overcome barriers and thrive in their campus environments.Ìý

Looking AheadÌý

From the vibrant programming at Access+ to record participation in the Disability Symposium, Disability Services is breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of accessibility. Through strategic upgrades, innovative spaces, and intentional partnerships, the team ensures all students have the tools and support they need to succeed at ¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä Boulder.Ìý

With these accomplishments and a clear vision for the future, Disability Services is transforming ¶¶ÒõÂÃÐÐÉä Boulder into a model of inclusion, collaboration, and community.Ìý