Disability and Access (D&A) ensures students with disabilities have equal access to their academic experiences at the University of Texas at Austin by determining eligibility and approving reasonable accommodations. We also engage in outreach across campus in order to make campus a more inclusive, accessible and welcoming environment for people… read more
SSD Students
Celebrating Disability Awareness Month: Steven Santoyo
When Steven Santoyo, a communications studies junior, came to UT Austin, he immediately immersed himself in a number of programs and activities to discover his passions. After joining DiscoverLaw.orgPLUS, a five-week summer program that prepares undergraduates for law school and beyond, he realized that becoming a lawyer would allow him… read more
Celebrating Disability Awareness Month: Eden Stone
As an undergraduate, Eden Stone spent many sleepless nights getting through her homework assignments and prepping for tests. Yet for reasons unknown, she was barely staying afloat. Frustrated with her lack of focus, she sought medical attention and was soon diagnosed with ADHD. We caught up with her to learn… read more
Celebrating Disability Awareness Month: Sean Pevsner
A proud Longhorn (B.A., Greek and Latin, ‘98/J.D., Law ’04), Sean Pevsner is a partner in his own firm, Whitburn & Pevsner, PLLC, where he has developed a vibrant special education practice. A passionate advocate for equal rights, Pevsner knew from a very young age that he wanted to help… read more
Celebrating Disability Awareness Month: Shalom Hernandez
Shalom Hernandez, a business and education senior, aims to empower people with disabilities to push past their barriers—surprising themselves and others in the process. Diagnosed at an early age with Arthrogryposis (a condition that limits lower-body mobility due to due to joint contractures) she understands the importance of self-advocacy and encourages… read more
Celebrating Disability Awareness Month: Marisa Ortega
Burnt orange bound…Since she was a young girl, Marisa Ortega always dreamed of becoming a Longhorn. She didn’t realize that dream could be a reality until she met with her community college advisor. “When she asked me about my dream school, I told her that I would love more than… read more
SSD Welcomes Sarah Vahle as Disabilities Services Coordinator!
SSD is excited to introduce Sarah Vahle as the newest member of the SSD Team! Although Sarah is new to Austin, she is not new to the world of Disability Services in higher education. Sarah grew up in Southern Maryland and attended college in Northern Virginia. After spending a year… read more