Art Malloy Vice President for Student Affairs | University of North Dakota
Art Malloy Vice President for Student Affairs | University of North Dakota
At the University of North Dakota's second Disability Awareness Day, the Memorial Union Ballroom hosted an event aimed at fostering a community of care and understanding. Lee Ann Williams, a clinical assistant professor and program director for Inclusive Rehabilitation Sciences, emphasized the importance of understanding different aspects of disabilities and the organizations that assist. “It’s not really a matter of when or if because disabilities definitely touch all of us in some capacity,” Williams said.
The event featured about 40 student research posters on topics such as dementia, cerebral palsy, and psilocybin-assisted therapy. Various support organizations, including the North Dakota Association for the Disabled and the Brain Injury Network, also participated. Williams noted the adjustments made from the inaugural event to include more advocacy groups, allowing participants to make connections.
President Andy Armacost commended the event, stating, “This event is incredible because it shows the amazing work that’s happening both on the research front and also with all the support groups and professionals who are trying to address disabilities of all kinds.” He emphasized the importance of the support provided to campus members and its alignment with the university's Strategic Plan.
Williams added that many student presenters had personal connections to their topics, making their research deeply meaningful. Mackenzie Stoebner, a Pre-Occupational Therapy student, shared her experience with inattentive ADHD, diagnosed during her first year of college. Stoebner highlighted gender disparities in ADHD diagnosis and shared challenges like difficulties in sitting still and maintaining focus.
Stoebner’s experience, including struggles with routine tasks and concentrating on lectures, led to her diagnosis and proper treatment, allowing her to manage her studies better. She expressed hope that the event provided insights into understanding perspectives of others with disabilities, fostering empathy and comprehension.
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