Career Center

Summary and Scope of Position:

Using the social model of disability, the Director of Disability and Access and Section 504 Coordinator works to ensure equitable access for students with disclosed disability impacts. The Director collaborates with stakeholders including students, faculty, and staff to create equitable environments that support the success of students who seek accommodations.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Create vision and strategy for disability and access services based on research and data that supports the social model philosophy of disability and access.
• Provide leadership in the administration, organization, and daily operations of the disability and access office.
• Develop and implement training programs focused on equity and universal design for faculty, staff, and students regarding disability and access.
• Supervise the assistant director of disability and access.
• Review disability documentation to determine eligibility for services using documentation guidelines supported by AHEAD and aligned with the social model understanding of access.
• Review and investigate complaints and informal grievances relating to accommodations.
• Conduct reviews of services to ensure equitable outcomes and opportunities for students navigating disability related needs.
• Maintain a process for assessing the effectiveness of existing and new programs that support the goals of the office.
• Research and maintain up-to-date information regarding best practices for programs designed to support the development, retention, and quality of life for students with disabilities.
• Coordinate communication between admission, student affairs, faculty, staff, and prospective and enrolled students with disabilities.
• Assist students in understanding rights and responsibilities relating to reasonable accommodations and in developing self-advocacy skills.
• Maintain confidentiality in verbal and written communication to campus constituents about students who seek accommodations.
• Provide outreach and training to faculty, staff, and students to promote awareness, sensitivity, and knowledge about accessibility and accommodations.
• Provide academic coaching and advising to students with approved accommodation needs.
• Represent the office and/or division in key institutional events that require expertise, awareness, and/or knowledge of disability, accessibility, and equity.
• Maintain professional skills and knowledge through continuing education, conferences, and professional development activities.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree required; PhD preferred
• 5-7 years of professional experience in working with students to promote access and equity, specifically neurodivergent students
• Experience working with diverse groups of students
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and tasks simultaneously
• Knowledge of student development and trends in higher education
• Experience working with students with disabilities, preferably at the postsecondary level
• Self-motivation and ability to work independently
• Knowledge of social model philosophy of disability and understanding of the differences between the medical and social model of disability and access
• Knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Fair Housing Act
• Commitment to professional development and awareness of current case law
• Familiarity with academic, residential, social, and housing/dining accommodations

Application:

Interested candidates should apply here.  Once you create an applicant account, you will be prompted to upload your cover letter, resume, and a list with contact information for three references to the applicant database. 

Ursinus is an EO/AA employer.  Ursinus College does not discriminate on grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, creed, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, disability, or other classification protected by applicable law in the administration of any of its educational programs or activities or with respect to employment.

About Ursinus College

Ursinus College is a highly selective, independent, co-educational, residential liberal arts college of approximately 1500 students located about 25 miles northwest of center city Philadelphia. With a diverse community of students, it is an expectation of all faculty to contribute to the inclusion, engagement, and success of all students.

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