Niagara University has launched the Institute on Disability Awareness, which will formalize existing programs, expand training options and make them accessible to a broader audience.

The institute will feature online training, as well as live training, resources, programs and solutions for individuals and organizations.

“Niagara University has been a leader in enhancing both awareness of, and service to, people with disabilities of all ages,” said Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., Niagara University president. “The establishment of the Institute on Disability Awareness will support these efforts in bold new ways and position the university to be the preeminent resource for new approaches, ways of thinking, strategies, and solutions that intentionally foster inclusion, equity, and quality of life for people with disabilities.”

Additionally, an undergraduate minor in disability studies is being developed by Dr. Carolyn Shivers, associate professor of psychology at Niagara University.

“As the IDA works to bring together all the incredible existing disability work at NU, the minor will serve not only to provide our students with a valuable curriculum, but it will also highlight the broad range of disability expertise that we have on campus,” she said.

For more information, visit ida.niagara.edu.