10/14 Annual Conversation Between DNA and The SDAO

Every year, the Duke Neurodiversity Advocates (DNA) partner with the Student Disability Access Office (SDAO) to host an open forum about accessibility at Duke - what’s working, what isn’t, and where students still need more support.

This meeting has become a defining space for students with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and neurodivergent conditions to speak directly with the people shaping Duke’s accessibility policies. In previous years, student feedback from this event has helped highlight barriers in testing, housing, and course design - issues that otherwise go unheard.

This year, we’ll be expanding the conversation to focus on how Duke can better support students with fluctuating or invisible disabilities. From inconsistent attendance expectations to inaccessible classroom environments, many students find that the current system doesn’t reflect the day-to-day realities of living with chronic illness or neurodivergence.

We’ll discuss:

• How to navigate the accommodation process and advocate for the supports you need.

• Common gaps in communication between students, professors, and SDAO - and how to bridge them.

• Why some accommodations don’t go far enough, especially for variable symptoms and energy limits.

• Practical changes SDAO and students can work on together this year.

Representatives from SDAO will be present to listen, respond, and share updates about ongoing accessibility initiatives at Duke.