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The number of students with disabilities who attend college is increasing, however, many of them are not completing their degree program (Fleming, Plotner & Oertle, 2017). Many students with disabilities are not socially prepared to attend college. They may struggle with developing relationships with peers and faculty, which leads to a lack of feeling supported (Herts et al., 2014). There are a variety of perceptions regarding individuals with disabilities from peers and faculty that can negatively impact students with disabilities in college (Baker, Boland & Nowik, 2012). Students with disabilities do have a legal right to receive accommodations at the college level, however, many students are not aware of those rights or choose not to implement them. Colleges/universities and faculty need to be a support system for students with disabilities. They need to be proactive in being informed about the law and the types of accommodations they can provide. Students with disabilities can be successful in college if everyone works together to set them up for success.

Diversity is defined as the range of human differences. When considering diversity, it is important to include individuals with disabilities in the dialogue. There is not a single campus that is not impacted by disability. This population is often overlooked regardless of their specific needs and rights under the law. Each of the disability categories is a range within itself. No two individuals with the same disability are the same, as they are diverse within their commonality. Research indicates a lack of recognition of disability as an identity group in higher education. Disability is often not recognized in diversity and inclusion efforts. We are missing a large part of the diversity conversation when disability is not included. Higher education institutions must consider the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities to provide the appropriate supports, promote inclusion, and ensure the students can be successful. The intersections between race, ethnicity, and disability are a critical part of the diversity conversation.

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