When Jacque Knedler saw the job opening for an accessibility services director at UNMC, she felt it was the perfect opportunity to align her experiences in student accessibility with her interests in health care.
“I really like the health science aspect of education,” she said. “I was excited to explore the field of students with accommodations in the health sciences field at UNMC, helping break down stigmas and barriers for students.”
As the director of the Accessibility Services Center at UNMC, Knedler’s role is to advocate for students seeking accommodations and to educate faculty and staff on the implementation of accommodations. Her office is working to adjust the accommodation process to be more linear and student-focused to ensure students get the supports they need.
“We’re working to create a more inclusive environment for students,” she said. “We’re dedicated to making sure students have equal access to their education and that they know they’re valued members of the UNMC community.”
One of Knedler’s first priorities was ensuring students could easily find the accommodations process online. On the accessibility services website, students can find a step-by-step description of the process with links to needed forms.
Knedler came to UNMC from Creighton University, where she attained a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in organizational leadership. She served in Creighton’s Office of Student Accessibility Services, first in a coordinator position and then as associate director of disability services.
In her new role, Knedler has found that UNMC students stand out for their ambition and worth ethic.
“They’re driven and work hard, and you can tell that the students are excited to be here,” she said. “I appreciate the students’ dedication to their education and striving for a more inclusive environment. It’s important that students continue to learn more about accessibility related needs, as that inclusivity will continue to reflect in work with patients and the UNMC community.”
Knedler encourages students to reach out to the Accessibility Services Center by email or phone at 402-559-7276 with any questions about accommodations or concerns about accessibility. The center’s offices are located on the second floor of the Student Life Center in suite 2031.