The Cal State San Bernardino Office of Services to Students with Disabilities will host the second annual Ability Awareness Fair in support of Global Disability Awareness Day on Thursday, May 25.
Award-winning motivational speaker and author, Peggy O’Neill, will kick-off the event in room 106A of the Santos Manuel Student Union from noon-1:30 p.m. Following the lecture, the event will move to the SMSU’s second floor, rooms 215-218, for hands-on interactive stations from 1:30-3 p.m.
“One in 5 Americans have disabilities,” said Marci Daniels, director of the Office of Services to Students with Disabilities. “Almost all of us, as we grow older, will have some type of functional limitations with mobility, and this is a good chance to experience it.”
O’Neill will speak on “Overcoming Adversity and Awakening Inner Greatness.” For more than 13 years, this 36-inch tall dynamo has inspired powerful positive change in corporate and women’s groups across the U.S. with her unforgettable, dynamic and humorous speeches and training sessions. She believes everyone can “walk tall” by tapping into their strengths and personal power — their “inner bigness.”
The interactive stations, available after O’Neill’s presentation, will provide a forum for positive interaction between students that will engage and challenge their perceptions about the capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Stations will feature empathy and “in the dark” activities for all to participate in.
“The outcome of this event is that students become more aware of stereotypical perceptions and behaviors, and how they negatively influence their interactions with other cultures; ultimately leading to a more inclusive campus environment,” said Daniels.
SSD strives to empower students with disabilities by fostering skills of self-advocacy, resourcefulness, and independence. The SSD office works collaboratively with the campus community to remove barriers and promote an enriched learning environment where students with disabilities can utilize their skills and pursue their academic and personal development goals.
For more information about the lecture or to arrange special accommodations, contact Marci Daniels at (909) 537-5238.