Arkansas Tech University students will have a new and easier way to initiate accommodation requests, upload documentation and schedule appointments with the Office of Disability Services beginning with the fall 2016 semester.
Liz Davis-Means, director of disability services at Arkansas Tech, said that an online portal will use software known as AIM in an effort to remove any barriers between students and the services they need.
In addition, the Arkansas Tech Office of Disability Services website is undergoing a revision that will lead to more information for students, faculty and staff.
“Our office envisions a campus community of students, faculty, and staff collaborating in a cooperative and respectful manner to ensure equitable opportunities are available to students with disabilities,” said Davis-Means. “By taking full advantage of available software capabilities and providing updated and relevant information on our website, we’ll be in a better position to proactively address equal access and coordinate connection across the campus when issues arise.”
Davis-Means went on to explain that returning students who have established their eligibility for services will be able to renew accommodation requests through the student portal and send electronic notifications directly to their professors.
“We have many individuals to thank for their assistance in making this possible,” said Davis-Means. “Specifically, the support we’ve had from Kristy Davis, associate dean for student wellness, as well as the Office of Information Systems team, led by David Waterson. They have been amazing.”
The Office of Disability Services will host a series of informational sessions for faculty and staff regarding the new procedures during the fall 2016 semester. More information about the sessions will be announced at a later time.
Visit www.atu.edu/disabilities to learn more about the Arkansas Tech Office of Disability Services.
