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Now in its second year, the annual Kent State of Accessibility event once again promises to engage attendees with unique perspectives to result in a better understanding of experiences of individuals with disabilities in a more inclusive ������ environment. 

Sponsored by Kent State's Accessibility Committee, the Center for Teaching and Learning, Student Accessibility Services and Kent State of Wellness, the 2018 Kent State of Accessibility will be held in the Kent Student Center on Wednesday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The event is free, but registration is required as lunch will be served during the panel, and space is limited.

This year’s theme focuses on the Intersections of Mental Health and Disability, and the agenda includes a slate of presenters and panelists that will expand participants’ understanding of those crossroads. 

“We are excited to offer this opportunity for the second year in a row,” says Michael Kavulic, Ph.D., director of research strategic initiatives for the Division of Research and Sponsored Programs. “The discussion of the intersection of mental health and disability should be incredibly engaging, and participants should not only leave with new knowledge that will help them in their work, but should also leave with some interesting questions to ponder after the event.”

This year’s keynote panel, “Perspectives on the Intersection of Mental Health and Disability,” will cover how psychological disabilities, as a component of the diverse fabric of the student experience, are on the rise on college campuses across the country. A panel of Kent State faculty and staff will discuss current trends and offer insight into the challenges and opportunities that lie at the intersection of mental health and disability. 

“The Kent State Accessibility Committee works hard not only to promote accessibility and universal design behind the scenes, but also to engage the Kent State community in the discussion of what it means to be an inclusive university,” says Ben Hollis, Ph.D., Accessibility Committee co-chair and director of instructional design for Kent State Online. “The Kent State of Accessibility event is just one of the ways we hope to advance that conversation.”

The event offers an opportunity for Kent State faculty and staff to converse and learn about this important topic.

Each breakout session is offered twice, so attendees will be able to attend both. Following the welcome from Senior Vice President Mark Polatajko, are two concurrent sessions, “Voices of Disability Experience at ������” and “Mindfulness and the Brain: Research and Application,” both of which will be offered before and after the lunch keynote panel.

“This event could not happen without the amazing volunteer efforts of committee members or without the help of the faculty, staff and students who are willing to share their insights as panelists and presenters,” says Amanda Weyant, Accessibility Committee co-chair and director of Student Accessibility Services.

Ms. Weyant said the committee is incredibly lucky to have the support of Senior Vice President Polatajko; Vice President Alfreda Brown of the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Vice President Shay Little of the Division of Student Affairs; and Vice President John Rathje of the Division of Information Services and chief information officer.

A full description of the event including timing, session locations, and registration instructions can be found at www.kent.edu/ksoa-2018.