Oct. 7, 2024
Photos by Reagan Mannis

Forward-thinking members of the University of Missouri community were recently recognized for their achievements in advancing accessibility at the Lee Henson Access Mizzou Awards.

Part of Disability Culture Month, the awards acknowledge students, faculty and staff who work to make the university a more inclusive place for people with disabilities. The awards are named after Mizzou's former Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) coordinator.

This is the eleventh year Mizzou has celebrated the awards, sponsored by the MU Disability Center, Office of Accessibility and ADA, IT Accessibility Center and the Committee for Persons with Disabilities.

Learn more about this year's recipients.

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Student award: Mackenzie Miller

Mackenzie Miller is pursuing a doctoral degree in human environmental science. She has been working on clothing for people with disabilities since 2019.

"Mackenzie has made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities within our community," Miller's nomination read. "Her work has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of adaptive apparel design - making her a leader in this critical field."

"When I was 8, all I wanted to do was be a fashion designer so I could make everyone feel confident and beautiful," Miller said. "Through my work in adaptive clothing, I feel I've been able to achieve that. I hope others are encouraged to do something to help people with disabilities so we can build greater communities for all people."

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Faculty award: Erin Robinson

Erin Robinson is director of the Master of Social Work program in the College of Health Sciences.

"Erin found unique and individualized processes by which to ensure I could continue my education and graduate on time even after two unexpected surgeries and multiple unplanned, extended hospitalizations," her nomination read.

"I believe it is a part of everyone's job to ensure the spaces around us can be easily navigated by those using assistive devices," Robinson said. "I try to keep a critical eye on any potential obstacles that can affect mobility into our buildings and classrooms. I am lucky to work with tremendous building coordinators and other folks who take immediate action on any issues that arise."

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Staff award: Tracy Schultz

Tracy Schultz is associate director of facilities for the Missouri Student Unions.

"Tracy works diligently to upgrade furniture within classrooms so it can be more inclusive of all body sizes and needs," Schultz's nomination read. "She is always willing to consult on supporting individual accommodation requests, including personally exploring and reconfiguring classrooms to make them more accessible."

"Creating inclusive environments on campus is something I deeply care about and consistently keep in mind with everything I do," Schultz said. "It's a core belief of mine that everyone deserves to feel a sense of belonging and to feel valued."

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Group award: Care Team

The Care Team provides one-on-one support for MU students experiencing significant difficulties related to their health, personal and family emergencies, financial issues or other areas of concern.

"The Care Team's reputation as a knowledgeable, caring and trusted resource is well-known across campus," the nomination read. "The support they provide helps to ensure disabled students can be successful on our campus."

"It is truly a privilege to be able to do this work and to work alongside others who share a passion and commitment to making the university more inclusive for people with disabilities," said Beth Lauchstaedt, assistant director of the Care Team.

Story written by Theo Schwinke

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