Join SDS's Assistive Technologist and Accessibility Specialist, Tori Jakpa, for Tea Time with Tori on April 24 at 12:00 PM in Math/Psychology 222!

Enjoy tea, light snacks, and engaging conversations about disability, accessibility, and assistive technology. This welcoming space is open to students, faculty, and staff looking to connect and explore how assistive technology can enhance learning and the classroom experience.

Curious to learn more? Let's chat! Open to all UMBC community members.

This event is open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.

UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all.  For additional inquiries about access or accommodation, please email tjakpa@umbc.edu with "Tea Time with Tori" in the subject line.

ADS and CRSP welcomes Rabbi Lauren Tuchman, the first blind Rabbi ordained in the United States, to campus to share about critical religious pluralism, her experiences and helping our campus community think about resiliency in difficult times.

Join Rabbi Lauren for a lunch and learn to dive into your own cultural and religious resources and come to the public conversation to hear more about her story.

This post is for Signing Up for the Lunch & Learn. Sign up for the Public Talk, too! 

These events and all events are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.

Autism is a Spectrum- and Acceptance Matters

April is known as Autism Awareness Month, including April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day (link).   In listening to many within the Autism community - there is a call for media to move from outdated and using awareness to acceptance to foster change and inclusivity for those affected by autism - experience more about Autism Society's Autism IS series here.  Information on What is Autism is linked here, and a deeper dive sharing the voices of many people on the Autism Spectrum is posted here.
Last year Maryland Governor Wes Moore proclaimed April as Autism Awareness Month  and Lieutenant Governor Aruna K. Miller presented the Governor’s proclamation to recognize people who are living with autism and those who advocate on their behalf, and honor the contributions of the autism community. She was joined by Maryland Department of Disabilities Secretary Carol Beatty and Maryland Statewide Autism Coordinator Victoria Rodriguez-Roldán in unveiling Maryland’s five-year Autism State Plan.  This year ADS is screening Being Michelle on Wednesday April 8th at 4:00p in ENG 027 - please join us!

Being on the Autism Spectrum is a nuanced diagnosis with a wide range of traits, and is explained well here.  For a more visual presentation, Rebecca Burgess also explains the spectrum within her comic on The Mighty. Day-to-day living and learning independence was recently examined in depth on PBS's In a Different Key which covers the history of autism and highlights the experience of a range of people with autism, their families and their community.
Recently, autism has been in the news, resulting in leading autism organizations to release this joint statement on upholding scientific integrity and supporting the autism community. 

Finally, with Autism Awareness Month, it's important to move beyond basic awareness and focus on real understanding. There are still many myths about autism that create barriers for autistic individuals. With understanding, acceptance, and respect for different communication styles, we can help create a more inclusive world. These facts are based on resources from the Kennedy Krieger Institute and Different Minds Scotland, two organizations doing critical work to promote accurate information about autism. Let's keep learning, listening, and working toward true inclusion, not just in April, but all year long.








People of all identities around the world live, go to school and go to work with the neurodiversity that Autism brings to a world, often with struggle and difficulty. UMBC's students, faculty, staff, and visitors have this neurodiversity as well.  While many learn and work well with best practices and accessible design,  students (both undergraduate and graduate), as well as faculty and staff who experience disability with a diagnosed health condition (which includes autism) may seek accommodations through Student Disability Services (link) for academic programs, as well as work-related accommodations via Accessibility & Disability Services. 

Thumbnail Photo credit: unsplash.com
*See UMBC's Style Guide about variations within inclusive language - it's better to ask about preferences than assume

World Autism Awareness Day 2026

The 2026 observance of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), held under the theme “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value,” highlights and affirms the dignity and worth of all autistic people as part of our shared human future.  Grounded in the principles of human rights and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this vision sees the inclusion of neurodiversity as crucial to sustainable development.

When societies embrace neurodiversity, they strengthen creativity, resilience, and innovation, laying the foundation for more just, inclusive, and sustainable communities. This year’s discussion explores the role of neurodiversity in shaping policies that advance health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, economic opportunity, reduced inequalities, sustainable communities, and strong institutions.

By affirming that autistic lives are integral to our collective progress and the achievement of the SDGs, the observance calls for a future where difference is respected, dignity is protected, and every autistic person can thrive.

Date: April 2, 2026

Learn more:
UN – World Autism Awareness Day
WHO – World Autism Awareness Day 2026

Key ways to celebrate and create impact in 2026 for Autism Awareness Day, Month, and all year:

• Wear Blue & Light It Up: Participate in the global "Light It Up Blue" initiative by wearing blue clothing or ribbons to spark conversations.
• Support & Donate: Donate to or volunteer with autistic-led organizations, or support autism-friendly businesses.
• Engage in Education: Read books, watch films, or listen to webinars by autistic individuals to learn more about their experiences.
• Participate in Events: Join or organize an event, such as a Spectrum 5K walk/run/roll.
• Advocate for Inclusion: Improve accessibility in your community by helping create sensory-friendly spaces, supporting inclusive events, or participating in advocacy initiatives.
• Leverage Official Resources: Use educational materials from respected organizations like the National Autistic Society and WHO.

Every month, we raise awareness of disabilities, chronic illnesses, rare conditions, and health-related challenges that affect individuals. March is also Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and impact of women throughout history—including women with disabilities who have shaped advocacy, policy, education, and culture.

Women with disabilities have always been part of history, though their stories are often overlooked. From activists and leaders to artists and innovators, their contributions continue to push society toward greater accessibility, inclusion, and equity. This month, we not only recognize their impact but also recommit to amplifying their voices and advancing opportunities for future generations.

We are also highlighting Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, Brain Injury Awareness Month, Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Week and Month. Each of these observances reminds us that awareness leads to understanding, understanding leads to action, and action can create meaningful change. Together, we can support research, promote accessibility, reduce stigma, and build a more inclusive and informed community for all.

March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

Source: Cerebral Palsy Guide

March is dedicated to raising awareness about cerebral palsy (CP), promoting inclusion, and advocating for better research, treatment, and support. Cerebral palsy is the most common lifelong physical disability, affecting movement, muscle control, and coordination. More than 1 million people in the United States are living with CP, and approximately 10,000 babies are diagnosed each year.

Cerebral palsy impacts each individual differently, but for many, everyday tasks such as commuting, working, or socializing can require significant energy and effort. Increased awareness helps improve access to healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and accessibility.

March 25 is recognized as Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day, a time to highlight lived experiences and advocate for inclusion. Many people show support by wearing green, the official color symbolizing hope and progress, and by sharing information using #GoGreen4CP.

Why awareness matters:
• Promotes better healthcare and early intervention
• Encourages inclusive education and workplaces
• Supports research and policy improvements
• Reduces stigma and increases understanding

You can get involved by:
• Wearing green and sharing awareness online
• Promoting accessibility in schools and workplaces
• Advocating for research funding and disability rights

This month reminds us that continued advocacy and awareness are essential to ensuring individuals with CP have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month

Source: Brain Injury Association of America

Every March, Brain Injury Awareness Month highlights the experiences of individuals living with brain injuries while promoting education, advocacy, and support. Millions of people are affected by brain injuries each year, and many face long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges.

This observance emphasizes that no one with a brain injury is alone. By sharing stories and raising awareness, we help build a community rooted in understanding, inclusion, and dignity.

Brain Injury Awareness Month encourages individuals, families, and communities to take action by amplifying voices and supporting ongoing advocacy efforts.

You can help by:
• Sharing your story to inspire and connect with others
• Raising awareness through conversations and social media
• Supporting organizations through fundraising efforts
• Becoming an advocate for policies that support brain injury survivors

Every conversation, story, and effort contributes to providing help, hope, and healing for individuals and families affected by brain injuries.

March is Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month

Source: National Bleeding Disorders Foundation

Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month has been recognized for nearly 40 years, originally established in 1986 as National Hemophilia Awareness Month. Today, it represents a broader community, including individuals living with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and other rare bleeding disorders.

These conditions affect the body's ability to properly form blood clots, which can lead to prolonged or spontaneous bleeding. Awareness efforts have played a critical role in improving early diagnosis, advancing treatments, and strengthening community support.

This month is about inclusion, education, and empowerment for all individuals affected by bleeding disorders, regardless of age, gender, or background.

You can support by:
• Sharing educational resources and personal stories
• Participating in awareness campaigns and events
• Using social media to spread information
• Encouraging early diagnosis and access to care

Together, we can continue to raise awareness, support research, and uplift the voices of those in the bleeding disorders community.

March 8–14 is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Week, and March is MS Awareness Month

Source: National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Week shines a light on the realities of living with MS, a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. MS symptoms can include fatigue, pain, cognitive changes, and mobility challenges—many of which are invisible to others.

This year's theme emphasizes that MS is often "unseen," highlighting the hidden challenges individuals face daily. Even when symptoms are not visible, they can significantly impact a person's quality of life.

While research has led to meaningful progress, there is still no cure for MS. Continued awareness and advocacy are essential to advancing treatments and improving quality of life.

You can take action by:
• Sharing stories to increase understanding of invisible disabilities
• Participating in fundraising challenges and awareness campaigns
• Donating to support research and resources
• Educating others about the realities of MS

MS Awareness Week reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a person navigating complex challenges, and that awareness and support can make a powerful difference.

Women with Disabilities Making an Impact

In honor of Women's History Month, we recognize a few women with disabilities—past and present—whose contributions have made a lasting impact. Some of these women fought for civil rights and the freedom of Black people, while others championed disability advocacy, accessibility, and inclusion. Together, their courage and leadership continue to inspire change and progress for all.

• Noor Inayat Khan
• Judy Heumann
• Lydia X. Z. Brown 
• Alice Wong
• Sojourner Truth
• Harriet Tubman (Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Celebration link)
• Fannie Lou Hamer

As we approach our late-April accessibility compliance deadline, we want to share a clear roadmap of the changes coming to myUMBC and what they mean for you.

Phase 1: Content Checks & Preview

Coming later during the week of March 23rd.

Content Checks

When editing a Post or Event, you'll see a new Content Checks section that flags accessibility issues before publishing, such as missing alt text on images or broken links.

Previously, you could publish posts and events without addressing accessibility issues. That is no longer the case, flagged issues must be resolved before content can go live.

Preview & Publish

The publish button has been replaced with a Preview & Publish button. Clicking it takes you to a preview of your content where you can:

• Review how it will appear to readers
• Return to edit if needed
• Send a preview of the notification email to yourself
• Share the preview link with teammates for review
• Publish to make it live

Phase 2: Content Archiving

In late-April, any content with unresolved accessibility issues published before January 1, 2023 will be marked as archived. The most common issue is images missing alt text.

Admins will have access to a report showing all of their group's flagged content. If you resolve issues before mid-April, that content will not be archived.

Here's what to expect for content that is archived:

• It will appear under a new Archived filter in your group
• URLs will not change, so existing links won't break
• Archived content is read-only, but you can edit and republish it at any time
• It will display a prominent banner indicating the content is archived and may not be current

For departmental websites: If your site pulls in myUMBC group content, no changes are needed on your end. Archiving will be reflected automatically on your site.

Why This Matters

These changes reflect UMBC's institutional commitment to making myUMBC accessible to everyone. The goal is to make compliance as manageable as possible — catching issues early, giving you visibility into your content, and providing time to act before archiving occurs.

Questions? Reach out to collier@umbc.edu.

We are excited to share our Spring 2026 events with you. Students, staff, and faculty are all welcome to attend. From accessibility workshops and campus Walk & Roll Tours to Tea Time with Tori, a guest lecture, a film screening, and many more, we're offering a wide range of opportunities to learn, connect, and engage with our community.

Please visit our [Events Page] to RSVP for the sessions you plan to attend so we can anticipate your participation.

Spring 2026 Highlights:

• MAR 26: Tea Time With Tori: Tech Drop-in & Conversation, MP 222, Noon-2 PM
• MAR 25: Accessibility Tour: Wayfinding, Skywalks and Resources, MP 222, Noon-1:00 PM
• MAR 30: Campus Accessibility Spring Update, Engineering 027, Noon-1:00 PM (Hybrid)
• APR 8: ADS Film Screening: Being Michelle, Engineering 027, 4:00 PM -6:00 PM
• APR 13: Guest Lecture: Silent No Longer, AOK Library Gallery, 3:30 PM -4:30 PM
• APR 15: Supervisors: Navigating Accommodations and FMLA from Referrals to Implementation, Noon-1:00 PM, Virtual
• APR 17: Dis/Ability On The Job: Accommodations and FMLA 101 for Non-Supervisors, Noon-1:00PM, Virtual
• APR 24: Tea Time With Tori: Tech Drop-in & Conversation, MP 222, Noon-2 PM
• APR 24: Digital Accessibility Challenge Day: Review your Site, Content, & Documents (Campus Wide)
  
  

Contact us: disability@umbc.edu | (410) 455-2459 | sds.umbc.edu

Do you know a faculty member or academic department that goes above and beyond to make learning more accessible and inclusive for all students? Now is the time to recognize them!

The UMBC Accessibility Trailblazer Awards celebrate individuals and departments who are pioneers in creating accessible course materials, inclusive content, and teaching practices grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL). These trailblazers help ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn and succeed.

We especially encourage student nominations, but nominations from colleagues are also welcome.

• Deadline to submit nominations: April 30
• Accessibility Trailblazer Award Nomination Form

Awardees will be recognized by the Department of Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS), which houses the Office of Student Disability Services (SDS). They will receive certificates of recognition, be acknowledged by their Deans and senior leadership, and be celebrated with the UMBC student community. Finally, they will also be featured on the ADS bulletin board and highlighted in our quarterly newsletter to recognize their commitment to accessibility and inclusive teaching practices.

Take a moment to recognize someone who is making a meaningful impact on accessibility at UMBC!

Questions? Contact the ADS office at (410) 455-2459 or disability@umbc.edu.