Since 1940, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has been a relentless force for change and fighting for those affected by diabetes through research, advocacy, education, and community. This American Diabetes Month, we reflect on the journey that has transformed lives and continues to inspire progress.

A Legacy of Breakthroughs and Compassion

• 1940: The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is born—finally giving Americans with diabetes an organization devoted to their health.
• 1949:  American Diabetes Association (ADA) creates the first camps where kids with diabetes can safely enjoy summer like everyone else.
• 1952: The American Diabetes Association (ADA) Research Program is founded, accelerating innovation and saving lives.
• 1963: Scientists invent the first wearable insulin pump, transforming diabetes care forever.

The Good Fight: It All Matters

Eighty-five years later, the ADA remains at the forefront of the fight to end diabetes. From improving access to care and advocating for equitable treatment, to funding cutting-edge research and building supportive communities—the mission endures.

This American Diabetes Month, we celebrate the courage, resilience, and unity of everyone impacted by diabetes—those who live with it, those who support loved ones, and the healthcare heroes who dedicate their lives to care and research.

Supporting Our Community During Diabetes Awareness Month

For UMBC students and employees who are managing diabetes, whether newly diagnosed or navigating ongoing treatment, please know that Student Disability Services (SDS) is here to support you. Diabetes has a broad global impact and meets the definition of a disability. At times, concerns about managing its flares—especially for individuals with Type 1 diabetes—arise, so we encourage students and staff to seek on-campus resources such as:

Get involved and make a difference!

• Download the ADA's American Diabetes Toolkit to help raise awareness.

• Share your story and show support using #AmericanDiabetesMonth and #WeFight
  

Did You Know Not All Disabilities Are Visible?

This week (October 19–25) is Invisible Disabilities Week — a time to raise awareness and support for those living with non-visible conditions.

An invisible disability is a physical, mental, or neurological condition that may not be apparent from the outside but can significantly affect a person's daily life, movements, senses, or activities.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple yet powerful symbol that lets people discreetly share that they have an invisible disability and may need extra time, understanding, or support. The movement began in the United Kingdom and is now recognized across Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland — and it's spreading worldwide.

If you notice someone wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, please show kindness, patience, and understanding. Displaying a sunflower symbol on your office door, reception area, or workspace helps communicate that people with hidden disabilities are welcome and supported.

Living with a hidden disability can make everyday life more challenging — and these challenges are not always easy to recognize or understand. Wearing the Sunflower is a way to promote empathy and inclusion.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program officially launched at UMBC in Spring 2025!

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

• October 3: I Have an LOA (Letter of Accommodation), Now What? (Online, 2-3 PM)

• Oct 9: Digital Accessibility 101: Principles and Practices – 12–12:30 PM, Online
  If you can click it, you can fix it. Learn what digital accessibility is and why it matters.

• Oct 10: Accessible Images: Basics of Alt Text & Decorative Images – 12–12:30 PM, Online
  

• October 13: Disability Awareness Month Film Screening: Quad Life (4:30–7 PM, UC 310)- Click the link to save your spot!

• October 15: Campus Accessibility: Facilities Management & ADS Project Discussion (Hybrid, Noon, ILSB 101/ Engineering Lecture Hall 027*)

• Oct 15: Free Webinar – Making AI Work for All: Enhancing Accessibility for Students in Higher Education – 2–3 PM, Online
  Sponsored by Northwest Higher Ed Accessible Technology

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

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

• October 24: Tea Time with Tori (Noon, MP 222)
  

• Oct 24: Review & Improve Your Blackboard Course Accessibility Score with Ally – 12–12:45 PM, Online
  

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

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.
   

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!

July 26, 2025, marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As the ADA turns 35 this year, here are some key facts you should know.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed in 1990, was a landmark moment in U.S. civil rights history. It made it illegal to deny someone a job, education, or housing just because of a disability. But the ADA didn’t just happen. It was demanded. Activists crawled up the steps of the U.S. Capitol during the Capitol Crawl to fight for equal rights.

Today, the ADA protects people with both visible and invisible disabilities, like PTSD, ADHD, and diabetes. It also covers far more than physical spaces. Think websites, apps, voice recognition, closed captioning, and screen readers. In fact, in 2022 alone, over 3,000 web accessibility lawsuits were filed under the ADA.

From the U.S. to countries like the U.K., Canada, and Australia, the ADA’s influence is global. And yes, even Siri owes a thank you to the ADA.

Equal access isn’t extra. It’s essential.

Finally, come celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act with UMBC's Accessibility and Disability Services AND Student Disability Services. The celebration starts at 10:00 AM at Math/Psych 222 and 212. Stop by, meet our team, get a quick tour of our spaces and learn more about UMBC's disability-focused work and partnerships that support people with disabilities by providing access as well as accommodation services. Additional activities that day include:

• At 12:00 noon we will celebrate the Anniversary of the ADA and have a brief Accessibility Tour of campus in the ADS conference room.
• At 1:00 we will have a demonstration of Assistive Technology.

During the Open House ADS will be running a Disability Film Festival in the spirit of "Nothing About Us, Without Us!" with the screenings of: 

• All Riders
• Le Frere
• Unseen, 
• The Body is a House of Familiar Rooms 
• The Beautiful Colors of Jeremy Sicile-Kira

Popcorn and cake will be served.  We look forward to honoring the anniversary and making more progress together with you and the entire campus community!

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.  All films are captioned and have audio description available.  ASL is available upon request.  For additional inquiries about access or accommodation, please email slazar@umbc.edu with "ADA Celebration" in the subject line.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Whether you’re navigating daily stress, big life transitions, or just trying to stay balanced during a busy semester, these six strategies can help support your emotional well-being:

1. Talk to someone you trust: Staying connected is key. Reach out to a friend, professor, or mental health professional. You’re never a burden.
   
   

2. Look after your physical health: Prioritize sleep, movement, hydration, and balanced meals. Small habits can make a big impact.
   
   

3. Do things that bring you joy: Whether it's creating art, playing sports, or spending time with loved ones, engaging in meaningful activities can improve your mood and reduce stress.
   
   

4. Steer away from harmful substances:  Avoid using drugs or alcohol to cope. They often worsen mental health in the long run.
   
   

5. Establish a routine: Structure and consistency can provide stability, especially during uncertain or high-stress times.
   
   

6. Seek professional help:  At UMBC, Retriever Integrated Health (RIH) offers individual therapy, group counseling, workshops, and peer-based skill-building to help students navigate life and mental health challenges.
   
   

Mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. What matters most is finding what works for you and knowing support is available.

Learn more about mental health services at UMBC: https://health.umbc.edu/counseling-services/counseling/

National mental health resources: nami.org/mham