IUPUC to host Disabilities Awareness Outreach Day info session on October 22

by Belinda Allen
October 9, 2014

In recognition of October being Disabilities Employment Month students, faculty, staff, and area residents are invited to join The Office of Student Involvement at Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus (IUPUC) for Disabilities Awareness Outreach Day.

Disabilities Awareness Outreach Day is the first planned IUPUC event, established to increase disabilities awareness. A discussion will take place between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., in the Columbus Learning Center Summerville Room 1400, and is open to all students, faculty, staff, and the community.

Dr. Sandra Miles, Director of Student Affairs at IUPUC believes this event will encourage meaningful conversations related to stereotypes and preconceived notions of disabled persons. “Often, when we think of persons with disabilities, we think in terms of what they cannot do,” said Miles. “This event will help us shift our focus to the many opportunities available that allow disabled persons to be successful at the things they can do.

A primary goal is to develop a greater understanding of the challenges that students with disabilities face. The conversation will include limitations, opportunities, and accommodations at IUPUC and within the community for the disabled. Disabilities Awareness Outreach Day will also feature partnerships among DSI, Foundations for Youth, IUPUC Adaptive Educational Services, IUPUC Division of Nursing, and IUPUC Career Services.

Dr. Marwan Wafa, Vice Chancellor and Dean shares “IUPUC is committed to be a “Welcoming Campus” for all students. Developing a thorough understanding of how a university can and should accommodate all students is critical in fulfilling our goal of making IUPUC welcoming for all.”

Kaleb Briscoe, Assistant Director of Student Involvement at IUPUC, explains, “The purpose of this event is to educate faculty, staff, students, and the community on the amenities offered for students with disabilities. In addition, we want our disabled students to be aware of their rights and the employment assistance and opportunities that are available to them.

The Columbus Learning Center is located at 4555 Central Avenue near Columbus Municipal Airport. There is no cost to attend and parking is free.