Student Accessibility Services recognizes Feeney and McCarey as outstanding advocates

Student Accessibility Services has awarded 2019-20 Accessibility Ally Awards to Dr. Danielle Feeney and Micah McCarey for their dedication toward inclusion and success of students with disabilities.

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Dr. Danielle Feeney is an assistant professor of instruction in special education in the Patton College of Education.

One student noted that Dr. Feeney not only helps educate future teachers on the importance of being an ally for future students and other people with disabilities, but also practices and demonstrates what it means to be an ally for people with disabilities. “As a student with disabilities taking one of her courses, I was able to feel comfortable, supported and welcomed in her classroom,” the student said. “I always appreciated how she would consistently check in on me, and ask if there was anything she could do to support me. Dr. Feeney has assisted me by extending deadlines, sending me course materials in advance in preparation for lectures, showing empathy and compassion when I needed to miss class due to my disabilities, and connecting me to resources both through SAS and other faculty and staff.”

“I’m honored to have been nominated for this award, especially by students,” she said. “No two learners are alike; the students and I partner together to meet their individualized needs and actively work to eliminate barriers—whatever that may look like for them. I am dedicated to students and their success.”

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Director of Ohio University’s LGBT Center Micah McCarey consistently ensures that events and programs are fully accessible for all. According to his nominator, McCarey ensures accessibility by “providing a safe area for people who may become overstimulated, providing wheelchair accessibility, and providing disability friendly activities.”

“I’m proud to credit both our Division of Diversity and Inclusion and our Division of Student Affairs with cultivating my professional commitment to inclusive practices,” said McCarey. “Staff members in these divisions and across the university care very genuinely about all students having the same access to Ohio University’s many resources and opportunities. When we pay attention to student struggles, consult campus experts (like those in our Office of Student Accessibility Services), and focus on the things we can change, we improve student experiences and move a little further in our journey toward inclusive excellence.”

“We are grateful to Micah McCarey and Dr. Danielle Feeney for their efforts to advocate for and ensure accessibility for the students with disabilities at Ohio University,” said Christy Jenkins, Associate Director for Student Accessibility. “Faculty and staff like Feeney and McCarey play a key role in fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment at OHIO.”

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.

Nominations are submitted by students, faculty, and staff from all Ohio University campuses. The award selection committee reviews nominations demonstrating how individuals went above and beyond to include and provide access for students with disabilities. 

Last year’s recipients were Dr. Roger Aden, professor of communication studies in the Scripps College of Communication and Dr. Elizabeth Beverly, assistant professor in the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Department of Family Medicine.

A unit of University College, Student Accessibility Services works to ensure equal opportunity and access for members of the Ohio University community. For more information, visit www.ohio.edu/uc/sas.