SUNY Cortland has proudly secured its place among the nation’s top ‘disability-friendly’ schools, earning recognition for its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
The university’s dedication to creating a campus where students of all abilities can thrive has positioned it as a leader in providing comprehensive resources and accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
The acknowledgment is particularly noteworthy as it places SUNY Cortland among a select group of institutions across the nation celebrated for their commitment to addressing the diverse needs of students with disabilities. This achievement reflects the university’s ongoing initiatives to create an environment where every student, regardless of their physical or learning abilities, can access education without barriers.
Recognition
The recognition stems from an evaluation conducted by Intelligent.com, a prominent website analyzing data for prospective college students. The comprehensive assessment considered a range of factors, including specific initiatives and programs supporting students with disabilities, the university’s cost, required credits for graduation, online and on-campus availability, and accreditation status.
Sue Sprague, Director of Cortland’s Disability Resources Office, expressed the university’s dedication to making tangible improvements in accessibility that impact students’ day-to-day lives. This commitment extends across campus, from housing accommodations to the integration of service animals, and embracing advancements in online learning and note-taking technology.
Importance
Sprague emphasized, “We want students with disabilities to have equal access to their education, programs, and activities of choice and not experience discrimination on our campus.” This sentiment encapsulates the university’s overarching mission to ensure that students with disabilities are not only accommodated but also feel fully integrated into the fabric of the SUNY Cortland community.
The recognition has garnered praise from within the university community, with Associate Professor Tim Davis of the Physical Education Department lauding Sprague and her team for their remarkable advocacy on behalf of students with disabilities. Davis noted Sprague’s significant role in amplifying the voices of these students and fostering an environment where they are celebrated for their unique contributions.
The Future
Looking forward, Cortland’s Disability Resources Office plans to further enhance inclusivity through initiatives such as focus groups, inviting input from staff, students, and faculty. Additionally, the office aims to hire a professional dedicated to supporting neurodivergent students with executive functioning strategies, acknowledging the vital role these strategies play in decision-making and self-confidence.
SUNY Cortland’s recognition as one of the nation’s tops ‘disability-friendly’ schools not only celebrates past achievements but also underscores its commitment to continuous improvement. The university’s dedication to creating an accessible and inclusive campus serves as an inspiration for other institutions, setting a standard for fostering an educational environment where students of all abilities can flourish.