Associate Director Of Disability And Access And Section 504 Coordinator

Department

Academic Affairs

Overview

The Associate Director of Disability and Access and Section 504 Coordinator works to ensure equitable access for students with disclosed disability impacts. The Associate Director collaborates with stakeholders including students, faculty, and staff to create equitable environments that support the success of students who seek accommodations. Reporting to the Director of the Institute for Student Success, the Associate Director implements the aspirational goals of the social model or similar accommodations models within the resources provided by a small liberal arts college and in collaboration with academic advising, residence life, student affairs and other relevant offices.

Responsibilities

• Create vision and strategy for implementing evidence-based, equitable, and inclusive disability and access services

• Support leadership in the administration, organization, and daily operations of the disability and access office within the framework of the institute for student success

• Develop and implement training programs focused on equity and universal design for faculty, staff, and students regarding disability and access models such as the social model or other equity-based accommodations models

• Supervise junior staff and student workers in the disability and access office

• 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

• Assist in the collection and analysis of data related to program effectiveness, student satisfaction, and learning outcomes. Prepare reports and recommendations for continuous improvement of services and resources

• 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

• Collaborate with the director of ISS to 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

Requirements and Qualifications

• Master's degree required in special education, rehabilitation, counseling, social work, or a related field

• Experience working in higher education disability services, with a demonstrated understanding of legal frameworks governing disability rights in education (e.g., ADA, Section 504)

• Experience working with diverse groups of students, specifically neurodivergent 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 and understanding of the differences between the medical and social model of disability and access

• Proven ability to develop and implement programs, workshops, and training sessions

• Knowledge of assistive technologies and strategies for supporting students with disabilities

• Commitment to fostering an inclusive campus environment that supports the success of students with disabilities

• 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 AA/EO 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.