Watch Chip lead the way to accessible paths on campus — tap to play! Next tour- Dec 8 @ Math/Psych 222!
October was Disability Identity and Awareness Month, and SDS was bustling with exciting events! One of the highlights was welcoming our special guest, Chip, who joined us for one of our monthly Accessibility Walk & Roll Tours.

We're thrilled to share this video showcasing Chip as she explores and demonstrates some of the accessible routes around campus. If you missed this one, don't worry! There are more opportunities to join us. Our next tours will take place on

November 10 and November 19 at 12 PM.

Click on the image below to watch it!

Thumbnail image for Chip’s Accessibility Tour video

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 "November 10/11 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.  

Come learn, explore, and experience how accessibility shapes our campus community. See you then!
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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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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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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/3cb17d479012f2f6ae38d8b9ff95b78b/69ea84f3/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://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/attachments/79cff0aecfc70d2a780dd3a601304809/69ea84f3/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 Hot off the Presses: Our Fall ADS Newsletter! We Invite You to Read Our Inaugural ADS Newsletter!
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
]]> 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... Newsletter https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/attachments/d92a934f92434b28ffde221cc7a93e1f/69ea84f3/news/000/151/824/599d7fcf13b3392cd1c3aa8320996868/Newsletter Snippet.png?1756324873 https://beta.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/151824/guest@my.umbc.edu/87f1e51349802b89cb4bd98e31b747b6/api/pixel accessibility accessible ads and back campus college community disability education fall inclusion inclusive newsletter picketing resources school semester services student students success to umbc 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 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/151/824/51a876c8d70af68851a1211012858519/xxlarge.jpg?1756819350 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/151/824/51a876c8d70af68851a1211012858519/xlarge.jpg?1756819350 https://assets2-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/151/824/51a876c8d70af68851a1211012858519/large.jpg?1756819350 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/151/824/51a876c8d70af68851a1211012858519/medium.jpg?1756819350 https://assets4-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/151/824/51a876c8d70af68851a1211012858519/small.jpg?1756819350 https://assets3-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/151/824/51a876c8d70af68851a1211012858519/xsmall.jpg?1756819350 https://assets1-beta.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/151/824/51a876c8d70af68851a1211012858519/xxsmall.jpg?1756819350 The image features four hands of diverse skin tones and styles, encircling a bright blue Symbol of Access (the international wheelchair symbol) on a white background. 4 0 false Wed, 27 Aug 2025 16:02:23 -0400 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:44:32 -0400 Reminder: Join Us for The Ride Ahead Film on March 25! Free popcorn provided—you won’t want to miss this!
Join us for the UMBC screening of The Ride Ahead on Tuesday March 25th from 4-6:00 p.m. in Meyerhoff Lecture Hall 030 - RSVP via the linked website to get it on your calendar- we will bring the popcorn, you are in for an adventure:

THE RIDE AHEAD, a documentary that follows Samuel Habib, a typical 21-year-old, itching to move out, start a career, and find love. But no one tells you how to be an adult, let alone an adult with a disability. 


Samuel is determined to avoid the statistical realities: unemployment, isolation, institutionalization. He seeks out wisdom through conversations with disabled mentors: comedian Maysoon Zayid, Americans with Disabilities Act legends Judy Heumann and Bob Williams; Tony-winning wheelchair-using pioneer Ali Stroker; hip-hop artist Keith Jones; autistic, queer activist Lydia X.Z. Brown; and marathon runner and disability activist Andrew Peterson. 

UPDATE: PLEASE BRING YOUR LAPTOP OR VIEWING DEVICE AS A BACKUP

As a backup plan, we kindly ask attendees to bring their own device (BYOD) if possible. You will have the option to:

• Join us in the screening space to watch the film together as a community with your own devices while enjoying popcorn.

• Access the film individually through the provided link and watch remotely at your convenience.

Here’s the link to the movie! Just click on "Get a Ticket," enter some basic information or sign in with Google/Facebook, and you're all set!

A brief discussion with the audience will follow the film 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.  The film has open captioning, ASL and audio description are available upon request.  A range of accessible seating options are available.  For additional inquiries about access or accommodation, please email slazar@umbc.edu with "The Ride Ahead" in the subject line.


Organized by Accessibility and Disabilities Services and co-sponsored by UMBC's Psychology Department and Critical Disability Studies.

A film still from the Ride Ahead showing  a power wheelchair user and companion heading away from the camera in the woods on a dirt path accompanies the post.
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UMBC’s Neurodiversity Club is dedicated to increasing awareness, fostering inclusion, and improving experiences for neurodivergent individuals. While these events are not hosted by UMBC, they are highlighting opportunities from organizations that support neurodiversity. They are excited to foster a faculty and staff group dedicated to increasing understanding, true inclusion, and improving the experiences of neurodivergent members of the UMBC community.

Stay tuned for upcoming events, research discussions, and programming designed to support neurodiversity and inclusion.

Upcoming Events:

Neuro-inclusive Recruitment Q&A: Ask the Experts
January 29 | 12–1 PM (GMT)

Teach Access Student Academy (Virtual)
February 20 & 21

Presentation: Integrating Neuroinclusive Pedagogy into Practice (College Autism Network)
February 25 | 12 PM (EST)

VTAC Biennial Autism Conference (In Person)
March 24

Replay: January CAN Presentation

Thanks to Dr. Nicole Noble and Dr. Carlos Castañeda for discussing their compelling research on autistic college students' experiences in seeking and maintaining romantic relationships. 

Join us in building a more inclusive UMBC. 


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 the event name in the subject line.
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  • March 25 – Spring Disability Film Screening
    Time: 4 PM
    Location: MYER 030 (Lecture Hall)
    Please join us for a powerful screening of The Ride Ahead: Love, Tattoos, & Other Disabled Things. Samuel Habib is a typical 21-year-old, itching to move out, start a career, and find love. But no one tells you how to be an adult, let alone an adult with a disability. Can a community of disability activists help him follow his dreams?. Feel free to watch the trailer here, and free popcorn will be provided for the screening!  .

  • March 26 – Tea Time with Tori (Held Monthly, next one 4/25)
    Time: 12-2 PM
    Location: Mathematics/Psychology 222
    Join us for a relaxed and welcoming space where students, faculty, and staff can connect over tea and light snacks to discuss disability, accessibility, and campus experiences. Curious about how Assistive Technology can enhance learning and the classroom experience? Let’s chat!

  • April 8 – Inclusive Excellence in Action
    Location: Virtual Event (Invitation Link Provided)
    A conversation on fostering inclusivity and accessibility across UMBC.

  • April 16 - Facilities Accessibility on Campus: ADS & Facilities Management Partnership (Spring Update) Starts at Noon - RSVP at the link for virtual or in-person attendance in ILSB 116A) 

  • Accessibility Walk and Roll Tours – 3/10, 3/27, 4/7, 4/28
    Time: 12-1 PM
    Start Location: Mathematics/Psychology 222
    Join us for a guided tour of UMBC’s accessibility features, including the Skywalk and recent upgrades, while discussing ways to advocate for inclusion. Learn how to navigate campus, report accessibility concerns, and connect with key resources supporting physical and mental health.

Earlier this semester:

  • February 5 – AT Open House (Held Monthly)
    Time: 12-1 PM
    Location: Mathematics/Psychology 222
    Explore assistive technology tools and resources available to support students.

  • February 19 – SDS New Student Open House: Explore, Connect, and Learn
    Time: 12–2 PM
    Location: Mathematics/Psychology 222
    An opportunity for new and returning students to learn about SDS services, meet staff, and connect with peers. Visitors are invited to join us at noon for an Accessibility Walk & Roll tour of campus before the Open House. Those interested can meet in Math/Psychology 222.

ADS and SDS events are open to all members of the UMBC community. We especially encourage participation and connection of new students registered with SDS and allies and friends of our students and employees with disabilities. Stay connected for more updates, events, and ways to get involved!  

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 the event name in the subject line and we will connect you with the event organizer.

A thumbnail image of seven young adult students gathered at a table, with two seated, accompanies this post.
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