Disability in Higher Education
Higher education should be accessible to everyone — but for students with disabilities, navigating academic institutions often means confronting structural barriers, inadequate accommodations, and a lack of awareness. DAU works to change that at Cornell and beyond.
The Landscape
Students with disabilities represent one of the largest minority groups in higher education, yet they continue to face disproportionate barriers to academic success. From inaccessible course materials and inflexible attendance policies to faculty who are unaware of their legal obligations, the challenges are both systemic and deeply personal.
At Cornell, students with disabilities must navigate the Student Disability Services (SDS) process to receive formal accommodations — a process that can be time-consuming, emotionally taxing, and not always responsive to the full range of student needs. DAU advocates for a more proactive, student-centered approach to accessibility.
Our Advocacy
DAU engages directly with Cornell administration, faculty, and the Student Assembly to push for meaningful improvements in how the university supports students with disabilities. Our advocacy includes pushing for universal design in course delivery, clearer accommodation processes, and greater accountability when accommodations are not honored.
We also work to educate the broader campus community — hosting panels, workshops, and discussions that help students, faculty, and staff better understand disability as a dimension of diversity and inclusion.
Key Issues We Address
Our work in higher education spans a range of interconnected issues that affect students' ability to learn, participate, and thrive on campus.
Academic Accommodations
Ensuring students receive timely, appropriate accommodations — including extended time, note-taking support, alternative formats, and flexible deadlines — and that faculty honor them consistently.
Universal Design for Learning
Advocating for course design that is accessible by default — captioned videos, readable PDFs, flexible assessment formats — so fewer students need to request individual accommodations.
Faculty Awareness & Training
Pushing for mandatory disability awareness training for faculty and staff so that students are met with understanding rather than skepticism when disclosing a disability.
Mental Health & Academic Pressure
Recognizing the intersection of mental health and academic performance, and advocating for policies that reduce stigma and support students through mental health crises without academic penalty.
Accessible Campus Infrastructure
Holding Cornell accountable for maintaining accessible buildings, classrooms, and digital systems — including websites, course platforms, and library resources.
Representation in the Curriculum
Advocating for disability studies and disability history to be integrated into Cornell's curriculum so all students develop a deeper understanding of disability as a social and political identity.
Get Involved
If you are a Cornell student who has experienced barriers to academic access, or if you want to help advocate for a more inclusive campus, we want to hear from you. Join DAU's Education Committee or attend one of our general body meetings to get involved.
Helpful Resources
Questions or Concerns About Accommodations?
If you're a Cornell student navigating the accommodations process and need support or guidance, reach out to DAU. We can connect you with resources and advocate alongside you.
Contact DAU