Office Name Change Reflects Students' Abilities, Not Disabilities

The Old Dominion University office that serves students with disabilities will officially change its name to the Office of Educational Accessibility effective July 1.

Approved by the university's Board of Visitors at its April meeting, the name change for the former Office of Disabilities Services reflects the university's recognition that its title should focus on students' abilities, not their disabilities, said Acting Director Kate Broderick.

The Office of Educational Accessibility assists all students with disabilities in the pursuit of their educational objectives. Office staff work with faculty, administrators and students toward the goal of complying with legal mandates and integrating students into a responsive campus community. Staff members also work to coordinate services that will enable students with disabilities to act as independently as possible in a supportive atmosphere that promotes self-reliance.