Article in The Daily Collegian titled "Forum raises awareness about disabilities"

ADA in the 21st Century (2000-2010)

  • Article in The Daily Collegian titled "Instructor promotes changing the perception of disability"
    “Instructor promotes changing the perception of disability,” The Daily Collegian, April 4, 2000

The turn of the century ushered in the second decade of the United States under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Penn State community was still in the process of raising its awareness of the full scope of disabilities and shifting attitudes around how to support academic and professional success for all. The Office for Disability Services, established in response to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, provides accommodations and services for students with disabilities. The Office is responsible for engaging with new and prospective students to facilitate appropriate accommodations. In 2000, greater attention was paid to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition to a greater understanding of services that are needed to support equitable access to education, the University aimed to provide opportunities for disability awareness with invited lectures, forums, and other programs.

In 2008, the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) was passed to amend the ADA and other disability discrimination laws at the federal level. The ADAA changed the definition of the term “disability” by clarifying and broadening it, increasing the number and types of persons protected under the ADA and other federal nondiscrimination laws. The ADAAA requires a broader interpretation of disability by schools, testing agencies and employers than the original law. Accordingly, persons with learning disabilities would get increased access to accommodations in school and work environments.

“Instructor promotes changing the perception of disability,” The Daily Collegian, April 4, 2000

“Disability Services smooth transition,” The Daily CollegianApril 28, 2000

“Attitudes seen as real disability,” Capital Times, March 19, 2001

“Upgrades to Pattee and Paterno provide better access to disabled 2001,” The Daily Collegian, April 9, 2001

“Forum raises awareness about disabilities,” The Daily Collegian, October 9, 2002

“Getting Around,” The Daily CollegianOctober 22, 2003