Student Accessibility & Support Services (SASS)

The McDaniel College community is caring and supportive, with high academic and personal expectations for each student. The goal of the College is to enable every student to achieve a full and productive life. Student Accessibility & Support Services (SASS) assists all students with documented disabilities. The SASS Office works with each student on a case-by-case basis to determine and implement appropriate accommodations based on individual needs.

Graduate assistant working with student.

Our Mission

The mission of the Student Accessibility & Support Services Office is to assist in creating an accessible college community where students with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the educational environment. We cooperate through partnerships with students, faculty, and staff to promote students’ independence, self-advocacy, and full academic potential. Our department works within the McDaniel community to enhance educational outcomes for our students and promote the recognition of students’ capabilities.

McDaniel College is proudly ranked #34 on College Choice's Best Disability Friendly Colleges and Universities.

Documentation

Students who are requesting support services are required to submit documentation to verify eligibility under the ADA of 1990 and ADAAA of 2008. The documentation must include medical or psychological information from a certified professional. This documentation assists our office in responding appropriately to the individual needs of the student. For the most accurate assessment of current level of functioning, the SASS office encourages psycho-educational documentation to be no older than 3 years. Student Accessibility & Support Services reserves the right to determine eligibility for services based on the submitted documentation. All documentation is confidential.

Accommodations

Student Accessibility & Support Services works with each student on a case-by-case basis to determine and implement appropriate accommodations based on individual needs and documentation. Accommodations are provided to assist the student in achieving the intended outcome of the course, as long as the accommodation does not alter the fundamental nature or requirements of the course or program.

Services Not Provided

Student Accessibility & Support Services does not provide the following:

Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation for determining disabilities
Special classes for students with disabilities
A reduced standard for academic performance
Exemption from graduation requirements (some substitutions are allowed)

The Basic Program: No Fee Associated

The SASS Office ensures that students with documented disabilities receive appropriate academic accommodations based on their individual needs. The Basic program level provides access to all approved accommodations, assistive technology, and use of the testing center. Like all of SASS's innovative and nationally-recognized programs, the Basic Program is deeply rooted in the most cutting-edge research on student support.

Registration Required

Regardless of the level of service, all students must register with SASS to receive accommodations.

Premium SASS Programs

Premium SASS Programs provide more in-depth and comprehensive services to ensure student success. By working closely with the SASS office, each students unique needs are met through a variety of programs, social events and mentorship.

Mentorship Advantage Program (MAP)

MAP consists of interactive workshops designed to enhance students’ skills in areas such as socialization, organization, assistive technology, time management, resume writing, and interviewing. Students practice focus skills through a series of social events throughout the semester.

Providing Academic Support for Success (PASS)

PASS offers students the unique opportunity to learn with fellow students through group academic support sessions monitored by Graduate Assistants three evenings a week. A quiet environment and use of assistive technology enable students to make the most of study time.

An academic counselor working with a student on an assignment.

Academic Skills Program (ASP)

The Academic Skills Program provides students with weekly one-on-one sessions with an Academic Counselor who will provide intensive support in academics, time management, organizational skills, and self-advocacy techniques. Academic counselors communicate with professors throughout the semester. Individual peer tutoring, weekly support sessions with Graduate Assistants, and priority registration ahead of their class are included.

Only at McDaniel Step Ahead A Summer Transitional Program for Students with Disabilities

The Step Ahead summer experience at McDaniel College anticipates challenges that first-year students with disabilities may encounter and provides strategies for students to become strong self-advocates. Specifically, Step Ahead participants sharpen their skills in note-taking, reading comprehension, time management, study strategies, assistive technology, communicating with professors and roommates, college-level writing, and independent living skills such as maintaining hygiene and interacting with peers. Though summer bridge programs are offered nationwide, Step Ahead is distinctive in its broad applicability (in contrast to programs that focus on a specific diagnosis, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder), and its low cost. Step Ahead is intended for students with any type of diagnosed disability who are registered with the SASS Office.

Learn More About Step Ahead

Restaurant in Budapest showcasing vibrant nightlife.

Maximize Your Opportunity SASS Jan Term Opportunities Support at Every Turn

As part of our on-going efforts to ensure all students take advantage of McDaniel's distinctive educational opportunities, SASS is proud to offer unique Jan Term opportunities. These trips include various study abroad and local options, providing supportive environments for students interested in expanding their academic experiences.

Learn More About Jan Term

Connect With Us

Melanie Conley

Director

Email Us

Phone: 410-857-2504

Office: Suite 117, Merritt Hall

Location

2 College Hill
Westminster, MD 21157