This free group is open to undergraduate students with or without disabilities. This includes developmental, mental health, learning, physical and addiction-related disabilities. Each meeting dives into a new discussion topic. Additionally, mentees discuss their successes and challenges in navigating college life and academics. Come build community with our students and staff through DCC Connect!
This free group is open to undergraduate students with or without disabilities. This includes developmental, mental health, learning, physical and addiction-related disabilities. Each meeting dives into a new discussion topic. Additionally, mentees discuss their successes and challenges in navigating college life and academics. Come build community with our students and staff through DCC Connect!
OrangeAbility is an annual event that provides people with and without disabilities with the opportunity to learn and experience an array of inclusive and adaptive sports, services and programs surrounding health and wellness. The afternoon will celebrate disability cultures and identities while providing a space for all to feel welcome and comfortable. Activities will include a sled hockey event at the Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion featuring members of the CNY Flyers and CNY Adaptive Sports, as well as two power soccer games at the Barnes Center at The Arch featuring teams from the United States Power Soccer Association (USPSA).
Ali Stroker is a trailblazing actress, singer and activist who made history as the first wheelchair user to appear on Broadway. Her powerful performance in “Oklahoma!” earned her a Tony Award for best featured actress in a musical. Stroker is an inspirational speaker who uses her platform to advocate for greater representation and inclusion of people with disabilities in the entertainment industry and beyond. Ali’s keynotes draw from her own courageous journey, sharing insights on overcoming barriers, building confidence and embracing one’s authentic self. Her remarkable story and uplifting messages have motivated people of all backgrounds to redefine what’s possible.
Cheryl Murphy is an alum of SUNY Empire and now a new mentor at the Johnstown location. In 1992, she secured an A.A.S degree at Fulton-Montgomery Community College in Johnstown, NY, followed by an Advanced Training Certificate in American Sign Language (ASL) from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. Years later, after starting a family and having three children, she graduated from SUNY Empire with a B.A in cultural studies with a concentration in ASL, followed by a master of arts in adult learning. She has 10 years of experience as an adjunct for Fulton-Montgomery Community College, Albany College of Pharmacy and SUNY Empire teaching various classes including American Sign Language. She works as a freelance community ASL interpreter focusing on educationally, medically and developmentally challenged deaf individuals. Cheryl was awarded the 2015 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching.
A Silent Disco is a unique dance party experience where people dance to music broadcast through wireless headphones instead of speakers. Participants are given headphones that allow them to tune into different music channels being played by live DJs. While the dance floor may appear silent to outside observers, those wearing the headphones are fully immersed in the music and can dance freely without noise constraints. This innovative concept creates a surreal, visually amusing atmosphere as people groove to different beats simultaneously!