STUDENT AFFAIRS ANNUAL REPORT (2025-2026) 18 Affairs Strategic Plan (2025–2030), advancing the University’s commitment to student safety and organizational accountability. Through these combined efforts, Northern continues to foster a campus culture where students can engage meaningfully in campus life while being supported by clear expectations, proactive education, and a shared commitment to community well-being. Assessing Accessibility Through National Standards April 2026 - As part of Key Result 62 of the Student Affairs Strategic Plan (2025-30), Student Accessibility Services completed the first phase of a comprehensive program evaluation using standards developed by the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD). These nationally recognized standards outline best practices for supporting students with disabilities and provide a framework for assessing the effectiveness of disability services programs in higher education. In April 2026, Student Accessibility Services distributed a campuswide survey to students, faculty, deans, directors, and other stakeholders to evaluate Northern's performance across eight key areas: consultation and collaboration, information dissemination, faculty and staff awareness, academic adjustments, counseling and self-determination, policies and procedures, program administration and evaluation, and training and professional development. The survey was designed to measure current strengths, identify opportunities for improvement, and better understand campuswide accessibility needs. The completion of the survey represents an important milestone in Northern's ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment. A total of 121 members of the campus community participated, including 28 or 49 deans and directors, 44 of 92 faculty members, and 49 of 172 students who receive services from Student Accessibility Services. Special thanks to Cassandra Maillet, who led this initial assessment effort and helped gather valuable feedback from the university. Data analysis and the identification of future improvement initiatives will continue during the next year. Student Accessibility Services will work with a consultant assigned through AHEAD to interpret the survey findings and identify priorities for future planning. This collaborative process will help guide strategic decisions, strengthen support services, and ensure Northern continues to remove barriers and expand opportunities for students with disabilities. Through this work, Student Accessibility Services is advancing a culture of access and inclusion that supports student success and aligns with the university's mission and values.
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