UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — This year marks the 30th anniversary of the University Access Committee (UAC) at Penn State, a milestone highlighting the University’s long-standing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Since 1994, the University Access Committee has been dedicated to identifying and eliminating physical barriers across Penn State, promoting the well-being of all community members and maintaining compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
In 1994, the Office of Physical Plant, with the provost’s support, created the University Access Committee with the mission to remove barriers and provide accessibility to support all Penn State campuses. This mission continues to inspire the committee to assess each situation on a case-by-case basis, working toward solutions to meet the needs of all individuals. Whether it involves relocating programs from inaccessible spaces or making structural changes, the UAC has dedicated itself to making an environment where everyone can thrive.
“As a polio survivor, I understand how the smallest barriers can have an impact on people with disabilities,” said Francis Achampong, chancellor of Penn State Mont Alto and UAC member. “UAC’s work to eliminate barriers helps make sure that all students, employees, alumni and visitors have a positive experience.”
Over the years, the UAC has completed numerous projects that have made a significant difference across Penn State’s campuses. Recent projects include installing power door operators in key buildings, creating accessible pathways and seating, and adding platform-lifts and ramps to make buildings more easily navigated for those with mobility challenges. Each project, no matter the size, has been a step towards a more accessible Penn State.
Scot Miller, an architectural designer in the Office of Physical Plant and UAC’s longest-tenured member, noted, “Gathering input and ideas from the Penn State community is vital to UAC’s work. The team meets monthly to identify and review proposed projects to remove physical barriers from our aging facilities.”
Members of the committee represent various University departments, including the Office of Physical Plant, Housing Operations, Human Resources, Office of Equal Opportunity and Access, Commonwealth Services, Information Technology, Occupational Health and Safety, and Student Disability Resources. This broad representation brings together a wide variety of knowledge and perspectives to ensure that all individuals at Penn State are considered while improving accessibility around campus.
“With diverse representation from leaders across the University, each bring their own area of expertise,” said Dwayne Witmer, UAC chairperson. “We have met and resolved many challenges over the years and will continue our mission to provide accessibility to the greatest extent possible in the years to come.”
Witmer acknowledges the keys to UAC’s success are four-fold;
- A deep commitment to the Penn State Values;
- A willingness for those with accessibility project suggestions to reach out;
- The support received from University senior leadership; and
- A deep commitment made by committee members, many of whom have served for several years.
To suggest a project to the University Access Committee, contact Dwayne Witmer, UAC chairperson, at dmw255@psu.edu.