Vision
We envision a fully accessible, integrated, and universally designed campus community. We recognize the social model which views disability as an identity and a valued aspect of diversity. We recognize that a diverse community broadens our understanding and appreciation of the contributions of each individual.
Mission
In collaboration with the University community, the Office of Disability Services (ODS) is committed to ensuring educational access that enhances the lives of students with disabilities. Our work enriches the campus environment by supporting the institution in its collective responsibility to provide an accessible education.
Goals
Disability Experts: Provide institution-wide leadership and guidance on academic accommodations, ADA and Section 504 compliance, and Universal Design for Learning. ODS staff engage in ongoing professional development to remain knowledgeable content experts and ensure adherence to the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) professional standards.
Campus Partners: Cultivate partnerships with faculty and staff to provide consultation and training, ensure compliance, and promote inclusive education. ODS staff develop collaborative relationships with members of our campus community and serve as a resource regarding barrier removal and the provision of academic accommodations.
Student Support: Support and advise students in the accommodation planning and implementation process, collaborate with students to determine reasonable academic accommodations, and provide case management. ODS staff empower students to understand disability civil rights and how to navigate conversations about access. ODS staff promote inclusive environments and sense of belonging to enhance the experiences of disabled students.
ODS Staff
To schedule an appointment, or for general questions about ODS services, please call (205) 348-4285 or e-mail [email protected].
Yanine Franklin, M.Ed., CRC
Accommodations Specialist IIEngineering and Natural Science majors
Vanessa Goepel, MA, LPC-S
Executive DirectorCrossing Points Program and Course substitutions
Brittany Gregg, MA, LPC
Assistant Director of AccommodationsStandardized Exams and Study Abroad
Amy Hagedorn, MS, CCC-SLP
Accommodations Specialist IIIStudents who are Deaf or hard of hearing
Students who are blind or have low vision
Drew Hernandez, MA
Accommodations Specialist IHES majors, Nursing, and Community Health Sciences
Lindsey Hughey, JD
Assistant Director of OperationsTesting Center and office operations
Chris Lee, MA
Accommodations Specialist IArts/Humanities/Literature majors, Education majors, and Social Work
Debbie Sutton, JD
Accommodations Specialist IILaw students, Continuing Studies, and Social Science majors
Get in Touch
Houser Hall 1000
205-348-4285
Monday – Friday
8:00am – 12:00pm & 1:00pm – 4:45pm
