Disability Services

URI strives to create an inclusive environment and views disability as a cultural diversity issues that affects everyone. Disability Services at URI emphasizes that people with disabilities have the same ability to perform work as those without disabilities, and can be held to the same standards as everyone else. Accommodations are simply alterations that do not change the central functions of the job. However, it is the negative attitudes of those around people with disabilities that can present challenges in the workplace. One of the goals of Disability Services is to get people to view the person first, not the disability.

Facilities Services

Although many employees will contact Disability Services with accessibility issues since the office works closely with Facilities at URI, Facilities Services can be contacted directly at 874-2723. Most common issues are those of employees facing physical challenges getting to work:

• Snow removal
• Getting walkways cleared
• Elevators that are not working

Human Resources

Employees can contact Human Resources (874-2416) with any concerns.

Disability Resource Mentors

If an employee is hesitant to contact any of the above offices, a disability mentor can also be contacted.  A number of URI faculty and staff have been trained to be Disability Resource Mentors and are available to help with any disability concerns. The list of mentors can be found at the URI Disability Services Changing the Culture website.

Unfair Treatment?

The Equity Council is working to form a harassment committee that will address harassment of any sort. This committee will serve as an information and advocacy resource for employees.
Please refer to the Harassment or Discrimination page for suggestions if you feel you or someone else is being treated unfairly.