Office of Accessibility and Disability Services (ADS)
Division of Institutional Equity (DoIE)
Our Mission
UMBC’s Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS) department is committed to ensuring equitable access, opportunity, and participation for all UMBC community members with disabilities. We advance equity by removing barriers, promoting inclusive practices, and supporting the implementation of universal design across campus. Through education, training, accommodation coordination, and advocacy, we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where all students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities can fully engage and thrive. We serve as a resource and partner to foster inclusive excellence and to ensure that the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act are upheld.
Departmental Vision
The Office of Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS) envisions a UMBC community where individuals with disabilities are welcomed, valued, empowered, and respected as vital members of our richly diverse and inclusive UMBC culture. We strive to create a campus where equitable access, inclusive opportunities, and full participation are embedded in every aspect of university life. We seek to recognize, celebrate, and embrace the uniqueness of individuals with disabilities and their diverse experiences. Through fostering proactive implementation of universally designed programs, policies, and practices, we strive to be partners in a cultural change that uplifts, includes, and supports our disability community through meaningful access.
Hours & Appointments
ADS staff are available for both in-person and virtual meetings Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5:00 PM (*alternate times can be requested and accommodated upon request to meet the needs of our community). Appointments can be requested via email or telephone.
The ADS Accessibility manager should be contacted for questions about employee accommodation and campus accessibility. Your questions are welcome!
You can also report accessibility campus concerns using the ADS “Report an Accessibility Concern” Google form linked in the website menu, or make a report to FM Work Control.
For undergraduate or graduate student disability accommodation matters, please call the Student Disability Services (SDS) main office line at 410-455-2459 or email disAbility@umbc.edu. Students can log in to the Accommodate online student portal and request appointments.
REMEMBER, in urgent situations or emergencies, you are advised to contact the Campus Police Department at 410-455-5555 as trained first responders, or 911 if you are off-campus.
UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all faculty, staff, students, and visitors.
If you have any difficulties accessing the information on our website, please do not hesitate to contact us to request an alternative format or to remedy any challenges.
Stephanie Lazarus, Accessibility Manager & ADA Coordinator
Tawny L. McManus, Assistant Vice President for Accessibility
Math/Psychology Building 212 (Appointments recommended)