Policy Regarding Persons With Disabilities
Southern Connecticut State University affirms its policy of nondiscrimination against all persons protected by all state and federal laws, regulations and executive orders. This policy of nondiscrimination commits Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) to achieving equal employment opportunity and full participation for employees with disabilities. No qualified person shall be excluded from consideration for employment, participation in any university program or activity, be denied the benefits of any university program or activity, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination with regard to any program or activity. This policy derives from SCSU's commitment to nondiscrimination for all persons in employment, academic programs, and access to facilities, programs, activities and services.
Existing barriers, whether physical, programmatic or attitudinal must be addressed. A person with a disability must be afforded equal employment opportunity as outlined in federal law, specifically the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 including section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as well as specific state laws on nondiscrimination found in the Connecticut General Statues and State Executive Orders 18, 11 and 9.
The ADA requires reasonable accommodations in all aspects of the employment process including application, performance of duties and benefits and privileges of employment. SCSU's efforts to accommodate people with disabilities must be measured against the goal of full participation and integration. Services and programs to promote these benefits for people with disabilities shall complement and support, but not duplicate, the university's regular services and programs. In keeping with SCSU's commitment to equal employment opportunity, the university will make reasonable accommodations for the known physical and mental limitations of otherwise qualified applicants and employees within the provisions of the prevailing state and federal statutes.
An employee with a disability seeking a reasonable accommodation should contact the Office of Diversity and Equity Programs at (203) 392-5491 to determine the appropriate process for review of the request.
Achieving full participation and integration of people with disabilities requires the cooperative efforts of all of the university departments, offices and personnel. The university shall periodically review its compliance with this policy as part of its commitment to nondiscrimination.