BYU Students Hold Disabilities Panel to Promote Inclusivity on Campus

A disabilities panel organized by BYU students aimed to educate the campus community about disabilities and inclusivity. The panel featured students sharing their experiences with different disabilities.

Dallin Gardner, a hard-of-hearing accounting student, highlighted challenges faced in group settings and offered insights on communication etiquette. He emphasized the importance of eye contact and clear speech.

Natalie Daines, a statistics student with autism, expressed occasional discomfort in requesting accommodations, underscoring the need for understanding and acceptance.

Jacob Reeves, a senior accounting student who is legally blind, stressed the significance of proactive communication with students regarding disabilities to foster inclusivity.

The panel advocated for increased openness and dialogue on disabilities within the BYU community. Wills Cole, a student with a spinal cord injury, emphasized the value of offering assistance when needed.

Panel members shared insights gained from living with disabilities, including lessons in patience, empathy, and self-acceptance. The panelists highlighted the importance of open communication and support for individuals with disabilities.

While discussing life lessons learned, the panel echoed themes of resilience, empathy, and the power of understanding one’s needs. Their shared experiences underscored the importance of fostering a culture of inclusivity and support at BYU.

The disabilities panel served as a platform for students to engage in meaningful conversations about disabilities and promote a more inclusive environment on campus. Through sharing personal experiences and advocating for understanding, the panel aimed to foster a culture of empathy and support at BYU.