Building a campus without barriers

The Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) office held its annual Recognition Reception Ceremony on April 23, honoring students, faculty, and staff who have gone above and beyond to champion inclusion and advocate for students with disabilities throughout the campus community.

Honorees and guests were invited to a brunch held in Old Union Hall in the University Union, followed by a recognition ceremony. Vice President for Student Affairs Brian Rose and Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education Donald Loewen joined more than 35 faculty and staff nominees and their guests.

The names of honorees were displayed throughout the event while three students addressed the audience, describing the impact that the staff or faculty member they nominated had on their Binghamton University experience.

Binghamton University Dining Services employee Chad Watkins was honored with the Beyond Compliance Award, highlighting his service and advocacy supporting students with disabilities.

Jennifer Roach, assistant director for campus access, presented the award to Watkins.

“Whether thoughtfully describing menu items or assisting with the payment process, [Watkins] ensures that each interaction is accessible and inclusive,” Roach said. “He is a proactive advocate and his care for every student is evident in each interaction.”

Callie Frost, senior assistant director in the Office of International Education and Global Initiatives, received the B. Jean Fairbairn Award. Frost was honored for her role in expanding and improving access for students with disabilities, especially in regard to education abroad opportunities. Frost assisted with SSD events such as Coffee Connections that highlighted education abroad programs and SSD resources, and encouraged and supported students with disabilities in their pursuit of education abroad opportunities.

Christen Szymanski, director of SSD, presented the Reframing Disability Award to senior Daisy Dimatos for her leadership and advocacy for students with disabilities. A co-founder of the Disabled Students Union, Dimatos now serves as the organization’s vice president, helping to create inclusive events and working with SSD to increase student engagement.

“[Dimatos] relentlessly serves this campus to ensure disability is a forethought and not an afterthought,” Szymanski said. “She has tirelessly worked to ensure that disability inclusion on campus is not just a goal but a living reality.”

The event concluded with Loewen thanking faculty, staff, and students for their ongoing commitment to supporting students with diverse needs.

“An inclusive, welcoming campus doesn’t happen by accident,” Loewen said. “It happens because people decide to make it so.”