Zoe & Matt - Accessibility

Who comes here, belongs here means that no matter your ability, you have a right to enjoy academic and social experiences at William & Mary. As an old place, campus is not as accessible as it should be. Communication during different construction projects that affected accessible routes was not adequate. While planning for future facilities has respected the need for an accessible campus, we will also work to make sure students here right now have their concerns addressed and don't face any undue burden that makes it hard for you to learn and live here.

Our Policies

Train Professors & Staff on Accessibility Accommodations

Faculty should be equipped to support students with disabilities and ensure an accessible learning environment. While Student Accessibility Services offers a program to inform professors about student accommodations, participation is not currently required. We will focus on making this training mandatory for faculty, helping them understand and implement accommodations to support students.

Create a Students' Rights Card for Disability Policy

Students have a legal right to accommodations, and that right should never be compromised or ignored. A "Know Your Rights" pamphlet will be created, providing clear information on accommodation rights and the process for accessing them. This resource will empower students to navigate the accommodations system with confidence and advocate for the support they are entitled to.

Provide an Updated Campus Map of Accessible Routes

Navigating campus should be easy for everyone. A regularly updated map of accessible routes will be created, allowing students to identify the best paths that accommodate mobility needs. To keep the map accurate and useful, students will have the ability to contribute updates based on real-time conditions.

Advocate for Longer Limited Mobility Shuttle Service Hours

Reliable transportation is essential for students with disabilities and limited mobility. Advocacy efforts will focus on extending shuttle hours and improving management to ensure the service is more dependable, efficient, and accessible.

Regularly Attend SADA Meetings

Ensuring accessibility on campus requires active engagement with disabled students and hearing about their needs. Regular attendance at Students Accessibility and Disability Alliance meetings will provide insight into accessibility challenges and help shape policies that offer meaningful support. By fostering open conversations and prioritizing student input, efforts will focus on implementing practical solutions that improve accessibility for all.

Make Orientation More Accessible

Orientation and the first week of college can be overwhelming for many students. To ensure a smoother transition, efforts will focus on providing more accessibility training and resources for Orientation Aides and Resident Assistants. Working with administrators, we will push for changes that make these events more inclusive and less stressful, both physically and mentally.