A campuswide audit of Syracuse University’s disability services, policies and resources will soon get underway. But first, the University is seeking students, faculty and staff interested in serving on the steering committee charged with facilitating the audit.
Chancellor Kent Syverud first announced the audit during his Senate remarks last December. At the time, he stated his desire “… to evaluate whether we are in compliance, where and when we are going beyond compliance, and whether we are creating a more positive and welcoming campus for people with disabilities.” The Chancellor reinforced his support for the disabilities services audit during his 2018 Winter Message to the Community, saying, “we need to deliver on our promises to remain open and welcoming to the world—to all who Syracuse University serves.”
The steering committee will be responsible for identifying a national consultant to conduct the audit, and working with the consultant to make recommendations to improve the campus experience for members of the community who are disabled. Michele Wheatly, vice chancellor and provost; Dolan Evanovich, senior vice president for enrollment and the student experience; and Pete Sala, vice president and chief facilities officer; will lead the effort.
Provost Wheatly says this process will involve members of the community who are disabled throughout the process, including serving on the Steering Committee.
“Despite our progress in making Syracuse University more welcoming for everyone, we know we need to make significant improvements in the service of students, faculty and staff with disabilities,” Provost Wheatly says. “We must actively seek representation by disabled campus constituents on this steering committee to ensure that the actual lived experiences of our disabled community members inform current decisions and forthcoming planning.”
The audit will include evaluating Syracuse University’s processes and policies on student housing, academic accommodations, medical leaves, service animals and other disability-related policies.
Chancellor Syverud has asked the committee to examine some foundational questions that may impact the campus experience. For example, where should the office of disability services be located? What should the organization and reporting structure be for the staff working in the disabilities area? How much should we budget for disability service providers?
Campus community members interested in being a part of this important process are invited to submit their names for consideration. Individuals are welcome to self-nominate or nominate others. Nominations to serve on the Steering Committee should be emailed to provost@syr.edu by Monday, April 2.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and nearly 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience. The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors and 100 minors offered through 13 schools and colleges; nearly 15,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit www.syracuse.edu.
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