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Claire Dekker arrived at ������ɫ prior to the fall 2025 semester as a doctoral candidate in computer science expecting to navigate disability accommodations much as she had at her previous institutions. Instead, she quickly found more than what she was accustomed to.

The Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) office became one of the first places on campus where Dekker felt supported, understood, and connected. It wasn’t just a conduit to accommodations, it was a community.

“One thing that’s been really different at ������ɫ is that SSD doesn’t just handle accommodations,” Dekker said. “They sponsor events and create a sense of community, which I didn’t expect, but really appreciate.”

Dekker, who has also used disability accommodations at her previous two universities, said she met with SSD on the first day of classes and immediately noticed the office’s broader mission. In addition to receiving support for her accommodations, she has participated in SSD‑sponsored activities, created a testimonial video, and recently took part in a faculty training video on working with students with disabilities.

“SSD has provided a lot of opportunities I didn’t expect,” she said. “It’s been different from my previous experiences.”

On Feb. 26, Dekker and three other ������ɫ students attended Student Empowerment Day at the State Capitol in Albany. College students from across the state came together to advocate for an increase in funding for higher education institutions in order to support access and inclusion for students with disabilities. The group attended student speeches, a press conference with lawmakers, and meetings with legislators representing the Southern Tier.

They also called for the passage of a New York State Senate bill that would expand state financial-aid options for college students with disabilities and make aid sources such as the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) more accessible. According to Dekker, the student speeches were the most meaningful part of the day.

“There were so many different disabilities and experiences represented, and it made me feel connected to everyone there,” she said. “It was probably my favorite part of the day.”

The experience deepened Dekker’s connection to ������ɫ and affirmed her commitment to disability advocacy on campus. She said that the conversations and connections she made in Albany will stay with her.