STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Welcome to the website for the Program for Students with Disabilities.  The main goals of our program are to assist students in transferring effective learning strategies to the university environment and to develop the working partnerships they need to be successful. The fundamental approach of St. Francis Xavier University stresses the development of self advocacy and independence for students with disabilities.  The University promotes awareness, advocacy and learning partnerships among students with disabilities and the whole university community. The university has a policy regarding students with disabilities which was set into place in 1991 and is currently under revision.

For a person with a disability, university can seem like a daunting environment. However, with the right attitude, prior preparation and serious commitment, students with disabilities can succeed at university. It is hoped that this site can better aid and educate persons with disabilities and those who teach and work with them.

The Program for Students with Disabilities was established at St. F.X. in 1989.  Students with documented disabilities or those who suspect they have a disability first meet with Mary Ellen Clancy, the program's Coordinator.  After the initial intake students are referred to the Tramble Rooms, the hub of the program. Here, incoming and present students meet with program staff  who assist them with such things as registration assistance, course selection, options for accommodations, assistive technology training, locating note takers and tutors, and information regarding the program for students with disabilities here at St. F.X.

Campus tours and meetings can be arranged through the Admissions Advisors' Office via email admit@stfx.ca or by phone at 1-877-867-StFX{7839}. Tours can include a meeting with the disabilities program personnel, participating students and a look at our adaptive technology. Mentor meetings with a senior student in our program can be arranged for parents as well as for students. We also have a special program for students in junior high.

Over the past 10 years students with disabilities have experienced a great deal of success on our campus. Most students become effective self-advocates and active participants in the community. Many people in our program have been leaders in their classes, campus societies, sports, music, residence staff or student government. Many have gone on to further education and careers in teaching, law, business, social work, professional sports and fitness, or jobs in computer technology. Currently we have 129 students registered in our program, 84 of these students have learning disabilities. As a student with a disability at St. FX, you would be part of a group with a very good reputation.  

Here are links for using the Program's services: