Disability Services

The Office of Disability Services (ODS) is committed to ensuring that students with disabilities have equal, effective, and meaningful access to all programs and opportunities at Suffolk University. With a student-centered approach, ODS fosters self-advocacy and self-determination, and promotes awareness that disability is an element of diversity.

ODS establishes partnerships with students, faculty, and staff to instill values that are usable, equitable, sustainable, and inclusive to all members of the greater Suffolk community.

Special assistance and service dog

What we do

  • Advocate on behalf of students with disabilities
  • Educate faculty and staff on best practices when working with students with disabilities
  • Meet one-on-one with students to determine their accommodation needs and provide ongoing support
  • Refer students to resources on campus that will help them succeed
  • Educate the Suffolk community about the needs of students with disabilities on campus and at campus-sponsored events

Staff

Andrew Cioffi Andrew Cioffi
Director

 

Rachel TesslerRachel Tessler
Assistant Director

 

Haley RiordanHaley Riordan
Accessibility Specialist

 


Jennifer AndrewsJennifer Andrews
Accommodations Specialist

 

Disability Services FAQs

The process for registering with ODS typically includes two steps. We ask that students submit documentation that supports their accommodation requests and contact us to schedule an intake appointment. To schedule an appointment, please call us at 617-573-8034.

We typically ask that students submit the most relevant documentation that supports their accommodation requests. Documentation can include a diagnostic and/or accommodation record and can be submitted via email to [email protected] or via fax at 617-994-4251.

When you request your accommodation letter, we will provide it to you in a PDF format. Printed copies of accommodation letters will be available by request. To establish accommodations for classes, students will be expected to provide their accommodation letter and schedule a time to discuss it with their instructors.

You can call or stop by to schedule a meeting or contact your service provider directly via email with questions. To schedule a meeting time, please call the Division of Student Success at 617-573-8034. Meetings with the ODS will take place in person on the 9th floor of 73 Tremont street. We will also be available to meet remote, via Zoom. If you wish to meet in a remote setting, please indicate this when scheduling your appointment.

Because the need for an accommodation can arise at any time, there is not a firm deadline for submitting requests. However, for best consideration, we strongly encourage students to complete the request and intake process prior to housing placement (for first year students) or housing selection (for returning students). For first year students, we recommend meeting with ODS prior to June 30th.

We work closely with the Residence Life & Housing to advocate for granted housing accommodations. While we make every effort to accommodate every granted request, housing accommodations are ultimately subject to availability.