Having proper accessibility is necessary for all students with disabilities to succeed academically in an environment that is comfortable.

The Disability Resource Center helps make sure students are able to receive the accommodations they need. According to the center’s website, a student can speak with a staff member about how to implement the accommodations they need.

Accommodation for students with disabilities is necessary for all classes. If you take a look at your syllabi, you may notice the “accessibility statement.” This statement commits the university to providing an accessible educational environment to students.

“An accessible educational environment means providing access to all programs and services that the university has to offer for all people regarding disability and even non-disabilities,” said Bryan Dallas, assistant professor of rehabilitation counseling. “This creates an environment that offers equal access and opportunity for everyone.”

Physical access is important, but it doesn’t end there.

Professor Greg Long, professor of health and human sciences, is the chair the Presidential Commission on Persons with Disabilities and recommends ways to ensure the university is meeting the needs of students with disabilities. Long said accessibility for students doesn’t just begin and end with door provisions and wheelchair ramps, as it also relates to technology.

“Last summer I helped lead the design on a 20-page tutorial which is meant to help faculty and staff to better work with students with disabilities,” Long said. “I also worked with Laura Vazquez, an assistant professor within the communication department, who helped from an educational standpoint of creating adaptive technology and universal design within the classroom.”

While there are many positive efforts made on the part of NIU to ensure accessibility to students through policies and renovations, I have noticed some areas that are not up to par.

Take DuSable Hall: I practically spend my life in this building as an English major, and I’ve noticed issues regarding proper accessibility. Many of the restrooms have doorways that are narrow and doors that have to be pulled, which can pose issues for those who may use a wheelchair.

NIU is making many much-needed changes in moving the university forward. Ensuring the university is fully accessible for its students is a step to be taken to add to its progress in doing so.