Inside Iowa State

Oct. 5, 2007

Learn more about disability accommodations

by Anne Krapfl

Employees seeking assistance with disabilities that affect their work -- and those who just want to learn more about the kinds of services and accommodations available to employees -- are welcome at a come-and-go event hosted by staff from IT Services and the office of employee and labor relations. The information session will be offered twice in 3150 Beardshear: 1-4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 22, and 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24.

They are part of a Disability Awareness observance on campus this month that included a lecture on helping college students with autism or the milder Asperger's syndrome learn; performances by a Des Moines drama troupe that dispel myths about mental illnesses; and "step into my world" activities that simulate having learning disabilities.

Employees can pick up informational brochures or ask questions about employment disability accommodations or worker's compensation issues, said human resources specialist Duane Reitz. IT Services staff also will demonstrate several kinds of assistive software -- for example, help with vision limitations or difficulty using a computer keyboard.

"The tough thing about these issues is that every situation is different," Reitz said. "The intent is to raise awareness of what's available to employees on campus and answer questions. We'll be happy to make appointments for employees whose situations require additional time."

As part of the disability awareness observance, an open house will be held in the university's assistive technology lab in 138 Durham from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25. The lab serves students and employees.

Information sessions

Learn more about disability accommodations

3150 Beardshear

Oct. 22, 1-4 p.m.

Oct. 24, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.