Students with disabilities have turned to CUNY in unprecedented numbers for the promise of a world class education and a better life, encouraged by the guarantees for equal access and opportunity of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Providing access to students with disabilities is one of CUNY's highest priorities. During the past decade, the number of students with disabilities attending The City University of New York has more than tripled.

The City University of New York has been a pioneer in the development of high quality, innovative programs, which provide access and ensure that students with disabilities receive the same opportunities as other students to attend college. The University recognizes the importance of promoting the full participation of students with disabilities in all aspects of college life and ensuring that its programs, facilities and curricula are fully accessible.

Many of these programs are recognized regionally and nationally as model projects for disability services in higher education. CUNY's Assistive Technology Services Project provides students with disabilities access to cutting-edge technologies. Similarly, CUNY continues to be a national leader in providing services to hearing impaired students. Finally, through its Homebound Program, CUNY offers quality distance learning to students whose disabilities prevent them from coming to campus on a regular basis. At each CUNY college, highly skilled disability services professionals coordinate the provision of reasonable accommodations and support services to students with disabilities and their faculty.

For students with disabilities, meaningful access must be realized in college classrooms, facilitated by faculty utilizing information and resources such as that included in this booklet. This type of knowledge enhances the sensitivity necessary to accommodate students with disabilities. CUNY's faculties have made significant strides in helping students with disabilities achieve their educational and career goals. We are confident that these efforts will continue as the University issues this updated booklet to assist you.

Matthew Goldstein, Chancellor

The City University of New York