The UAB School of Nursing, in partnership with the School of Health Professions, the Office of Access & Engagement, Disability Support Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning, is pleased to host Access by Design: Removing Barriers for Students with Disabilities.
The virtual presentation will feature Emily Tarconish, Ph.D., Teaching Assistant Professor in the College of Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and will be moderated by Jennifer Christy, Ph.D., Interim Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs in the UAB School of Health Professions.
Students with disabilities represent one of the fastest-growing populations in postsecondary education, yet they continue to experience unequal academic outcomes compared to their peers without disabilities. A major barrier identified by these students is the lack of instructor awareness regarding their needs, along with limited use of accessible and inclusive teaching practices.
Dr. Tarconish will explore key theoretical frameworks related to disability and accessibility and introduce practical, inclusive teaching strategies designed to promote access and engagement for all learners. By examining how these approaches reduce common barriers, this presentation demonstrates how intentional course design can better support students with disabilities and promote more equitable learning environments.
The virtual presentation is designed for faculty, instructors, and staff and will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. Registration is required to attend. To request accessibility accommodations, please email