Accessibility Ally Awards nominations due March 20

Student Accessibility Services is accepting nominations for the 2020 Accessibility Ally Award to recognize Ohio University faculty and staff members for their dedication toward inclusion and success of students with disabilities.

Nominations are submitted by students, faculty, and staff from all Ohio University campuses and are reviewed by a selection committee. Student Accessibility Services will accept nominations through Friday, March 20.

The Accessibility Ally Award is an annual recognition awarded to individuals who demonstrate a high level of respect for all members of the university community, take on multiple perspectives to understand the impacts of disabilities, express flexibility and empathy with new issues, openly discusses disabilities and consult with Student Accessibility Services, and encourage full access through implementation of accommodations. Nominees should not have the primary job responsibility of working with disabilities.

“We often hear stories from students about instructors or staff that go out of their way to support an accessible and inclusive experience for them,” said Associate Director for Student Accessibility Christy Jenkins. “Through this award, we’ve been able to show our appreciation for work that often goes unrecognized. Although accessibility is an institutional responsibility, nominees are often individuals who have taken it upon themselves to make sure students with disabilities feel included and have a positive experience at OHIO.”

Recipients of the 2020 Accessibility Ally Award will be honored in April with a plaque and a celebratory lunch with the Student Accessibility Services staff.

Last year’s Accessibility Ally Award recipients were Dr. Roger Aden, professor in the School of Communication Studies, and Dr. Elizabeth Beverly, an assistant professor in the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Department of Family Medicine.

To nominate an accessibility ally, please submit this nomination form. For more information, email Christy Jenkins.