Did You Know?

Disability Services for Students (DSS) changed its name about one year ago from “Disabled Student Services” in order to use person-first language. This change emphasizes the student first, rather than the student’s disability. DSS continues to strive to ensure that students with disabilities receive equal access in the university academic environment. DSS also coordinates various workshops and events that provide information and raise awareness of disability-related topics.

Fast Facts

• The average student with a disability has a GPA that is comparable to that of students without disabilities.

• Making course material accessible to students with disabilities often benefits others.

• The student is the best source of information regarding useful accommodations.

• Federal law requires that educational videos be accessible to people with disabilities.

• Disability Services for Students (DSS) provides services to over 350 students with disabilities.

• Students with learning disabilities make up the largest group of college students with disabilities.

• Applying universal design principles assists people with and without disabilities.

• When talking with someone who has a disability, speak directly to him or her, rather than through a companion who may be along.

Disability Awareness Week

Disability Awareness Week Lectures

The concept of disability is oftentimes overlooked when speaking about diversity. With this in mind, DSS is sponsoring “Disability Awareness Week” from April 27 to May 1. We are hosting a Brown Bag Lunch series open to the campus community, which includes informative presentations on the following topics:

• Mon., April 27 - Lorna Catford, "Asperger’s Syndrome"
• Tues., April 28 - Elaine McHugh, "Being a Saturday Sidekick"
• Wed., April 29 - Peter Marincovich, "Audiology - Deaf/Hard of Hearing"
• Thurs., April 30 - CA State Department of Rehabilitation, "Students with Disabilities Transitioning to Work"
• Fri., May 1 - Anthony Tusler, "History of Disability Services at SSU"

All presentations are from noon to 1 p.m. in Salazar 2014. Please notify the DSS office one week prior to the event if you will need accommodations by emailing disability.services@sonoma.edu or calling 707-664-2677.

Alpha Theta Chapter of Delta Alpha PiDelta

DSS has established the Alpha Theta Chapter of Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society. Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society was established in 2004 at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania to recognize the academic accomplishments of students with disabilities. Delta (~ Delta for disability) Alpha (~ Alpha for achievement) Pi (~ Pi for pride) provides an opportunity to change that perception by recognizing the academic achievement of students with disabilities. The honor society will help facilitate development of leadership, advocacy, and education for student participants. The initiation date for new members of Delta Alpha Pi is May 1, and will conclude a week of Disability Awareness activities beginning on April 27.

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