UAB’s Disability Support Services (DSS) Counseling & Services Coordinator Andrew Sparks has won Educator of the Year for the Birmingham Area Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. Sparks has been with the department for over two years. When asked about his love for working with DSS he said, “I am thankful for the opportunity to work in an office that empowers students and highlights the strengths of each individual.”

That same committee awarded Sarah Kathryn Burk, a student who utilizes services at DSS, Student of the Year. This is Sarah’s senior year and she is working towards a degree in elementary education. She is credited with starting the registered student organization “Students for Disability Support and Awareness.” Those interested in joining can email sdsauab@gmail.com.

DSS promotes self-awareness, self-determination and self-advocacy by providing education to students with disabilities about their rights and responsibilities so they can make informed choices to meet or exceed the standards of all students at UAB. DSS serves as the university-appointed office charged with providing institution-wide advisement, consultation and training on disability-related topics which include legal and regulatory compliance, universal design and disability scholarship. This department provides an accessible university experience through collaboration with UAB partners.

Congratulations to both Sparks and Burke for taking the initiative to exemplify great works and for the recognition they have received in Birmingham!