Learning for everyone: A closer look at Disability Services

When I first heard the phrase ‘disability services,’ it brought to my mind many assumptions which I found out were totally wrong after sitting down with Debbie Forshee-Sweeney in the Student Success Center. Forshee-Sweeney is Union’s director of Disability Information and Access (also referred to as the TLC). Our discussion revolved around how her department works with students here on campus.

Disability Information and Access provides a variety of services to students on campus. This includes various types of learning technology, personal academic college coaching and (coming soon) a sensory room.

Something significant Forshee-Sweeney explained was the difference between a service and an accommodation. A service, she shared, is something the college provides to everyone – like tutoring, life-coaching, etc. However, an accommodation is provided for students who qualify under the ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act). Accommodations can be permanent (in the case of a chronic condition) or temporary (like a broken arm). 

Forshee-Sweeney shared that a common misconception is that those who use accommodations get special treatment. This is not the case. Instead, accessing accommodations is actually about providing equal access. This brings us to a common thread in “disability culture”: it’s not about the individual, it’s about the environment. The ultimate goal is to create a universally designed environment.

One issue prevalent on campus  is the “COVID fog” many are reporting after contracting the illness. It can be difficult to readjust to campus life and classes after being sick and in quarantine for two weeks or more. Forshee-Sweeney encourages those struggling with getting back into their routine to come see her to discuss possible options that may be available.

Forshee-Sweeney emphasized the importance of understanding diversity within disability culture. She feels it’s important to involve students with disabilities in conversations about campus policies. Overall, she urges anyone interested in accommodations or disability culture to feel free to meet with her.

By Charles Metz