Ensuring Accessibility

Ensuring Accessibility

Friday, December 13, 2024

Media Contact: Sophia Fahleson | Digital Communications Specialist | 405-744-7063 | [email protected]

Oklahoma State University's new Agricultural Hall is not just meeting accessibility standards - it's exceeding them.

The building, which became operational in Fall 2024, includes wide corridors, gentle access ramps and spacious classrooms.

These features offer a thoughtfully crafted space to support a wide range of needs, from physical mobility to mental well-being, said Jana Phillips, university architect.

University officials and other skilled individuals designed Agricultural Hall "beyond the minimum" in anticipation of future Americans with Disabilities Act standards, Phillips said.

The building includes expanded pathways and larger turning areas to accommodate a variety of mobility devices, such as motorized wheelchairs and scooters.

Other features include two elevators on each end of the building, accessible huddle spaces and ergonomic furniture suited for varied body types and needs, she said.

In addition to these physical inclusions, OSU's approach to accessibility also has incorporated spaces to support mental well-being, said Cynda Clary, Ferguson College of Agriculture associate dean of academic programs.

Quiet study areas and acoustic paneling are designed to minimize noise and support concentration, Phillips said. OSU has embraced accessibility as a university mission, impacting both renovations and new buildings, Phillips added.

Agricultural Hall is intended as a model for other buildings and institutions, Clary said. The building 's role is to demonstrate how proactive, inclusive design can create ADA-compliant spaces as well as benefit all students, staff and faculty, she added.

"With this comprehensive approach, Agricultural Hall shows how accessible education starts with accessible spaces," Clary said.

Other Features

• Accessible Service Counters: Multi-height counters permit access for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
• Gentle Ramps: Subtle, slope-adjusted ramps allow smooth navigation.
• Recessed Monitors: Wall-mounted monitors feature specialty-built boxes to reduce walkway obstructions.
• Adjustable Faculty Stations: Height-adjustable lecterns and stools provide comfort.
• 61 classrooms, huddle rooms, conference rooms and labs with at least one accessible desk.
• 12 ADA parking spots within 200 feet of the building
• 19% of university students have accessibility needs.

For more information

OSU Student Accessibility Services provides assistive technology and tools to students, regardless of ability. They partner with Oklahoma ABLE Tech to provide information and resources to the campus and across Oklahoma. For additional information regarding accommodations, accessible technology, and support for diverse learning and mobility needs at OSU, visit https://accessibility.okstate.edu/.

To learn more about the New Frontiers campaign and read about other features of Agricultural Hall, visit OSU Agriculture's New Frontiers page.

Story by Kait Godwin | Cowboy Journal

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