Reminder-Exclusive Movie Screening on Oct 13: Quad Life Click on the movie poster to watch the trailer!

Join us for an exclusive screening of Quad Life — the powerful story of a young Black father whose world is turned upside down after a life-changing accident. Follow his journey of resilience and reinvention as he pursues his passion as an artist and quadriplegic sound designer, redefining what "normal" means along the way.

Popcorn will be provided. For a special surprise, the main actor will be joining us after the screening for a live Q&A session.

Go to this link and click "Going In-Person" to reserve your spot.

Promotional poster for “Quad Life.” A man with a beard is sitting in a car, looking out the window. Text reads: “Quad Life. Exclusive Screening — Oct 13 @ 4 PM | UC 310. A young Black father’s world flips upside down after an accident. This is his story of reinvention as he chases normal and navigates life as an artist and quadriplegic sound designer.”

Please note: This event is not sponsored, and Quad Life is not currently available on Netflix. All graphics and introductory materials are created solely to enhance the promotional experience and generate excitement for this screening.

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 disability@umbc.edu
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WordPress Accessibility Day is a 24-hour global event dedicated to promoting and learning best practices for creating accessible WordPress websites. Originally started in 2020 by the WordPress Core Accessibility Team, this independent, volunteer-led initiative brings together developers, designers, content creators, and users worldwide to ensure websites are usable for everyone, regardless of ability.

Why Accessibility Matters
An accessible website ensures that people with disabilities—and those using assistive technologies—can fully engage with online content. Accessibility also benefits broader audiences by improving readability, usability on mobile devices, translation accuracy, and overall user experience. Accessible websites truly benefit everyone.

Event Details

Learn more and register for WordPress Accessibility Day!

UMBC Commitment to Accessibility
At UMBC, the Office of Accessibility and Disability Services is committed to fostering digital accessibility in all online spaces. As you participate in WordPress Accessibility Day—or create content of your own—we encourage you to review our Six Essential Steps for Accessible Digital Content.

Together, let's make accessibility a shared responsibility and celebrate WordPress Accessibility Day by building content that works for everyone.

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Calendar graphic titled 'October 2025: Disability Identity Awareness Month.' Several dates are highlighted in orange: October 3, 8, 13, 15, 17, 21, 24, and 27.

October is a special month at UMBC as we celebrate Disability Identity Awareness Month on campus while also recognizing the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). NDEAM is an annual observance that highlights the contributions of people with disabilities in the American workforce and emphasizes the importance of inclusive workplaces for individuals with all types of disabilities, including non-obvious and mental health conditions. This year’s NDEAM theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” honors the achievements of American workers with disabilities, past and present, and aligns with the upcoming celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us of the importance of early detection, education, and support in the fight against breast cancer. Over the past 40 years, awareness efforts have helped reduce breast cancer death rates in the U.S. by 44%, saving more than half a million lives. The National Breast Cancer Foundation encourages everyone to "Help Women Now" through education, early screenings, and community support.

At UMBC, we invite our community to join us in celebrating disability identity through events, conversations, and activities designed to foster inclusion, understanding, and connection. Events are happening throughout October on the highlighted dates, with some hosted by the UMBC ADS/SDS Office and others by Instructional Technology. From engaging conversations to hands-on workshops and community-building activities, these events provide opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate the diverse experiences of our UMBC community.

We look forward to seeing you this semester.


Movies with Meaning: Honoring Awareness, Inclusion, and Hope

Stories have the power to inspire empathy, raise awareness, and spark meaningful conversations. In recognition of Disability Identity Awareness Month, the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we've curated a list of impactful films that celebrate resilience, identity, and community. Each of these movies sheds light on personal strength, inclusion, and the importance of support—values that resonate deeply with UMBC's commitment to accessibility, understanding, and compassion.

Disability Identity & Disability Employment Awareness

  1. Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution (2020) – A powerful documentary about a groundbreaking summer camp for teens with disabilities that sparked the disability rights movement and led to the creation of the ADA.

  2. Door to Door (2002) – Based on the true story of Bill Porter, a man with cerebral palsy who became a top-performing door-to-door salesman. A touching example of persistence and dignity in employment.

  3. The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019) – A heartwarming adventure about a young man with Down syndrome pursuing his dream of becoming a wrestler, highlighting inclusion and independence.

  4. The Theory of Everything (2014) – Chronicles the life of physicist Stephen Hawking, showing his journey with ALS and his groundbreaking scientific achievements.

  5. Ray (2004) – Chronicles the life of musician Ray Charles, focusing on his success despite blindness, illustrating employment, talent, and perseverance.

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

These 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.

UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all.  For additional inquiries about access or accommodation, please email disability@umbc.edu.

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Flyer for UMBC Accessibility Walk & Roll Tours on Sept 24, 12 PM at Math/Psych 222. Contact slazar@umbc.edu .

Navigating UMBC's campus-on-a-hill as a person with a disability brings out overt and sometimes more subtle features of its accessible design.  Join us to learn more (which can extend to being an effective Accessibility Ally!) and discuss: 

What are the features? We have many, including a Skywalk and several upgrades (lecture halls and elevators) and more on the way.

What are the bugs?  Learn more about how work with situations, whether it's contacting Work Control for a repair (410-455-2550), reporting an accessibility concern, or working with campus partners, such as Facilities Management  and DoIT to support inclusion.  Accessibility is everyone's responsibility.

We will gather in the ADS Conference Room - learn the skywalk and tunnel connections within the Academic Core, review Adaptive Computing within the Library, and visit the reception area of Retriever Integrated Health - which supports both physical and mental health.  The tour is limited to a small group, and please know that mask use is VERY WELCOME.

UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all.  To request accommodation(s) or to inquire about event accessibility, please contact us via slazar@umbc.edu with "Sept 24 Accessibility Tour" in the subject line.


Can't make the day or time? More tours are planned.  Have a (small) group? Email us to set up a day and time that works for the occasion.  

]]> Navigating UMBC's campus-on-a-hill as a person with a disability brings out overt and sometimes more subtle features of its accessible design.  Join us to learn more (which can extend to being an... Image https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/attachments/f382235456ff983e6754f71da3556f2b/69ec1d77/news/000/152/635/d1a598d77495fb6501ae53ba01c49637/Final Flyer for Walk and Roll Tours (2).png?1758207924 https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/152635/guest@my.umbc.edu/bc2fe9f0e52ef76d16ed666fa4929493/api/pixel Office of Accessibility & Disability Services https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/accessibility https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xsmall.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/original.jpg?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xxlarge.png?1565792941 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xlarge.png?1565792941 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/large.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/medium.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/small.png?1565792941 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xsmall.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xxsmall.png?1565792941 Office of Accessibility & Disability Services 0 0 false Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:06:36 -0400 Event Reminder: Tea Time With Tori Sep 25th @ MP 222
A promotional flyer with a warm golden-yellow background featuring the silhouette of a tree. In the foreground, a hand is pouring tea from a glass teapot into another glass teapot on a wooden tray with teacups beside it. Text on the flyer reads: “TEA TIME WITH TORI” Join us as we spill the tea on all things assistive technology! Thu., September 25 | 12–2 PM | Math/Psychology 222

Join SDS's Assistive Technologist and Accessibility Specialist, Tori Jakpa, for Tea Time with Tori on September 25 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.


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A guide dog, a golden retriever, sits on a sidewalk beside a person holding a white cane. The design includes paw prints, yellow brush marks, and the word “woof” in a speech bubble above the dog. Text reads: “Happy National Guide Dog Month.”

Here at UMBC, we know a thing or two about Retrievers—and this month, we're honoring some of the hardest-working ones around.

Guide dogs are more than companions; they are highly trained service animal partners who provide independence, safety, and confidence to individuals who are visually challenged. Their dedication and loyalty empower their handlers to navigate the world with courage and freedom. Fun Fact: Labradors, golden retrievers, German shepherds, and labrador/golden crosses are among the most common guide dog breeds, chosen for their intelligence, size, and calm temperament.

This September, we send a round of Retriever pride to all the guide dogs who make a difference every single day. Thank you for your service, dedication, and love.

Do you know the difference between the different types of working dogs? Check out this helpful guide that explains the differences between guide dogs, service animals, and emotional support animals!

]]> Here at UMBC, we know a thing or two about Retrievers—and this month, we're honoring some of the hardest-working ones around. Guide dogs are more than companions; they are highly trained service... Image https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/attachments/0f75477f8a54afb92bad7a875105e1e5/69ec1d77/news/000/152/575/c2c9e000826a0759bd9828b6ef6ad663/National Guide Dog Month.png?1758118397 https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/152575/guest@my.umbc.edu/727a0ede375fadbd7dc6ef8a850301a4/api/pixel accessibility animals assistive awareness campus community disability dog dogs guide impairments inclusion independence matters mobility month national partners service support umbc visual Office of Accessibility & Disability Services https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/accessibility https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xsmall.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/original.jpg?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xxlarge.png?1565792941 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xlarge.png?1565792941 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/large.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/medium.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/small.png?1565792941 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xsmall.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xxsmall.png?1565792941 Office of Accessibility & Disability Services 0 0 false Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:55:05 -0400 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 14:05:21 -0400 September is National Deaf Awareness Month Celebrate Deaf Culture & Community

Graphic with the text 'September is Deaf Awareness Month.' In the center are four squares showing American Sign Language (ASL) hand signs spelling the word 'LOVE' — L, O, V, and E — in alternating black and white backgrounds. Wavy gold and orange lines frame the image.

All month long, communities across the U.S. are uplifting ASL, celebrating Deaf achievements, and advocating for equal access in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

How it started:

  • 1958: International Day of the Deaf

  • Expanded to International Week of the Deaf

  • Today: Observed all September, with International Week in the last week of the month

Here are a few ASL letters you can learn — the image above shows how to sign LOVE.

Learn ASL at UMBC:

  • American Sign Language (ASL) will fulfill UMBC’s GEP language requirement.

  • Courses are offered every semester: fall, winter, spring, and summer.

  • Courses include: ASL 101, ASL 102, and ASL 201.

ASL is a visual language that uses hand, facial, and body movements to communicate. Sign language promotes communication with the Deaf community and can help babies communicate sooner and better. It can also boost effective brain function and link the mind and body in ways that other languages do not. It’s the sixth most common language in the United States.

Let’s celebrate, learn, and advocate—this month and beyond.

 ]]> All month long, communities across the U.S. are uplifting ASL, celebrating Deaf achievements, and advocating for equal access in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. How it started: 1958:... Image https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/attachments/32b8f6dedddd10f05c4beb835a068f92/69ec1d77/news/000/152/379/9297c1cf019967dfec7a248d00a35466/DAM Opt 2 (1).png?1757686667 https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/152379/guest@my.umbc.edu/65e7a36075748fff8399d0047421f898/api/pixel accessibility all asl awareness communication community culture deaf disability for inclusion language matters month pride sign strong Office of Accessibility & Disability Services https://beta.my.umbc.edu/groups/accessibility https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xsmall.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/original.jpg?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xxlarge.png?1565792941 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xlarge.png?1565792941 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/large.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/medium.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/small.png?1565792941 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xsmall.png?1565792941 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/480/1109171419a1b66ae0d9168429adfb61/xxsmall.png?1565792941 Office of Accessibility & Disability Services 1 0 false Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:21:07 -0400 Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:21:41 -0400 SDS/ADS Fall 2025 Events Calendar Accessibility in action this Fall!

We are excited to share our Fall 2025 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, we are offering a variety 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.

A list of SDS/ADS Fall 2025 Events

Fall 2025 Highlights:

  • September 4: ADS-SDS Welcome & Open House Drop-in (Noon, MP 222)

  • September 8, 24, October 3, 8, 27: Campus Accessibility Walk & Roll Tours (Noon, MP 222)

  • September 12: ADA 101: Working with ADS/SDS, Requirements, Universal Design & Inclusion, Q&A (Noon, Commons 331, tentative)

  • September 25, October 24, November 26: Tea Time with Tori (Noon, MP 222)

  • October 13: Disability Awareness Month Film Screening: Quad Life (4:30–7 PM, UC 310)

  • October 15: Campus Accessibility: Facilities Management & ADS Project Discussion (Hybrid, Noon, ENG 027)

  • October 17: Accessible Documents and Course Materials: PDFs, PPTs, and More (Noon, MP 222)

  • October 21: FMLA & Job Accommodations (Non-Supervisors) (Noon, Online)

  • October 27: FMLA & Job Accommodations (Supervisors) (11 AM, Online)

We look forward to seeing you this semester.

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

These 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.

UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all.  For additional inquiries about access or accommodation, please email disability@umbc.edu.

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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.  To request accommodation(s) or to inquire about event accessibility, please contact us via disability@umbc.edu with "SDS Open House" in the subject line.

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Welcome Back!
Happy first day of classes! We’re excited to kick off the semester with the very first edition of our ADS Newsletter. Inside, you’ll find helpful updates, upcoming events, and tips to make the most of your semester. We’ve also attached a PDF of the newsletter for you to download and enjoy. 

How to Download the Newsletter:
Scroll to the bottom of this post and click the grey button labeled “Download Document.” Once you click, the download will begin.

Here’s a little snippet of what you can expect…Image of SDS Newsletter
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