Disability Services

STCC adheres to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008 which states that "no qualified individual with a disability shall, solely on the basis of their disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity in higher education."

STCC is committed to the success of all students, and we strive to achieve equal educational opportunities to allow full access for students with disabilities. Our Office of Disability Services (ODS) provides accommodations, services, and auxiliary aids to students with disabilities.

Creating an optimal learning environment is a unique and collaborative process. ODS works closely with faculty to ensure that the academic integrity of each course remains intact while preserving equal access to course content and materials for qualified students at the same time.

ODS also strives to foster partnerships with faculty, staff, and students, promote disability awareness throughout the campus community, and provide guidance regarding college policies and procedures pertaining to the rights and privileges of persons with disabilities.

We look forward to helping you reach your academic and career goals!

Who We Serve

We serve individuals with disabilities who are defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a history of such an impairment, or is perceived by others as having such an impairment.

Getting Started

Students seeking accommodations for a documented disability should self-identify and register with ODS. The information below can assist you in getting started with this process.

Services Offered

  • Testing and classroom accommodations
  • Arrangements for sign language interpreters
  • Guide student development of self-advocacy skills
  • Evaluation and training in the use of assistive technology
  • Supportive academic counseling
  • Consultation with faculty

Policies and Procedures

ODS has outlined policies and procedures to guide students who may request particular services or accommodations.

Contact

Office: 413-755-4785
Fax: 413-755-6323
Email: disability_services@stcc.edu

Staff

Clerk III
413-755-4785

David C. Forton, M.S., LMHC
Senior Academic Counselor
413-755-4332
dcforton@stcc.edu

Connie Hackett, A.S.
Assistive Technology Specialist
413-755-4082
cmhackett@stcc.edu

Hira Byrne Paulin, CRC
Learning Specialist Counselor
413-755-4513
hjpaulin2301@stcc.edu

Tara Sasser, M.Ed.
Accommodations Specialist
413-755-4883
tsasser@stcc.edu

Location

Ira H. Rubenzahl Student Learning Commons (B19) / Room 141

Hours

Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday:
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.