The Ross Center for Disability Services at the University of Massachusetts Boston is a vital resource for students with disabilities, providing a comprehensive range of services and support to ensure equal access to education. Located in the heart of the university's campus, the Ross Center is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for students with disabilities, promoting academic success, and fostering independence.
History and Mission
The Ross Center was established to address the growing need for disability services on campus, with a mission to provide individualized support and accommodations to students with disabilities. The center’s namesake, Ross, reflects the university’s commitment to recognizing and honoring the contributions of individuals with disabilities. The Ross Center’s mission is to empower students with disabilities to achieve their full potential, providing equal access to educational opportunities, and promoting a culture of inclusion and diversity.
Services and Support
The Ross Center offers a wide range of services and support to students with disabilities, including:
- Academic Accommodations: providing individualized accommodations, such as note-takers, readers, and scribes, to ensure equal access to academic programs
- Disability Counseling: offering counseling and support to students with disabilities, addressing issues related to disability, academic success, and personal well-being
- Assistive Technology: providing access to assistive technology, such as text-to-speech software, screen readers, and closed captioning, to facilitate academic success
- Accessibility Services: ensuring physical accessibility of campus facilities, providing accommodations for students with mobility impairments, and addressing issues related to accessibility
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Academic Accommodations | Individualized accommodations to ensure equal access to academic programs |
| Disability Counseling | Counseling and support addressing issues related to disability, academic success, and personal well-being |
| Assistive Technology | Access to assistive technology to facilitate academic success |
| Accessibility Services | Ensuring physical accessibility of campus facilities and providing accommodations for students with mobility impairments |
Facilities and Resources
The Ross Center is located in a state-of-the-art facility, designed to provide a welcoming and accessible environment for students with disabilities. The center features:
- Accessible Computer Labs: equipped with assistive technology and software to support students with disabilities
- Quiet Rooms and Study Spaces: providing a quiet and distraction-free environment for students to study and focus
- Meeting and Conference Rooms: available for student organizations, support groups, and disability-related events
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Ross Center collaborates with various departments and organizations on campus to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to supporting students with disabilities. Partnerships include:
- Academic Departments: working with faculty and staff to provide accommodations and support in the classroom
- Student Organizations: partnering with student organizations to promote disability awareness and advocacy
- Community Organizations: collaborating with local organizations to provide resources and support for students with disabilities
What types of accommodations are available for students with disabilities?
+The Ross Center provides a range of accommodations, including academic accommodations, disability counseling, assistive technology, and accessibility services. Students can work with the center’s staff to determine the most appropriate accommodations to support their academic success.
How do I request accommodations and support from the Ross Center?
+Students can request accommodations and support by contacting the Ross Center directly, either in person, by phone, or via email. The center’s staff will work with students to determine their eligibility for services and develop an individualized plan to support their academic success.
