IDA Launch

The Institute on Disability Awareness at Niagara University was officially launched July 17th, 2024. Previously the Disability Awareness Training program, this commitment advances the work done over the last 15 years across first and emergency response and municipalities, expands law enforcement to include Probation, Corrections, and School Resource Officers, adds Hospitality, Employment, and Healthcare and enhances technical assistance and advocacy efforts. On campus efforts include the creation of a Disabilities Studies minor, Mental Health Awareness Initiative, and Disability Assistance Program.

Pictured from left to right are Tim Regan - Hamburg (NY) Asst. ADA Coordinator, Dr. Carolyn Shivers - Institute Academic Advisor/Faculty, Chris Hull - Hamburg (NY) ADA Coordinator, Michelle Schieb - Niagara County Independent Living Center, Todd Vaarwerk - WNY Independent Living Center, Dave Whalen - Institute Director, Chris Minkler - National Federation of the Blind Buffalo Chapter, Stephanie Saunders - Community Services for Every1, Stephanie Orlando - WNY Independent Living Center, Laurie Schaller - National Disability Institute

Institute on Disability Awareness Staff (Left to Right) 

Michelle Kerr - 9-1-1 Master Trainer, Jack Bailey - Program Coordinator, Pat Mann - Law Enforcement Master Trainer, David Whalen - Office Assistant, Dr. Carolyn Shivers - Institute Academic Advisor/Faculty, Shannon Barber - Program Manager, Dave Whalen - Institute Director.

Absent: Erica Rodman - Project Assistant, Sean Nesbit - Office Assistant.