Compliance and Ethics
Americans with Disabilities Act
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BACKGROUND
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990 to address discrimination against persons with disabilities. Title II of the ADA provides that no individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, program, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity. The Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has primary responsibility for investigating Title II complaints. Title III of the ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in public accommodations, such as schools, operated by private entities. The Civil Rights Division has primary responsibility for enforcing Title III as it relates to education.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits the exclusion, the denial of benefits, and discrimination by reason of disability in programs or activities receiving federal funds. OCR has primary responsibility for enforcing Section 504's provisions with respect to recipients of federal education funds.
USM's DEDICATED OFFICE
The Office for Disability Accommodations (ODA) is Southern Miss's designated office to verify students' eligibility for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ODA works with eligible students on an individual basis in developing and coordinating plans for the provision of reasonable accommodations that are specific to their disabilities.
USM's COMMITMENT TO COMPLIANCE
In accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American with Disabilities Act (1990), Southern Mississippi is committed to providing equal access for persons with disabilities and prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in programs or activities.
ODA interacts with all offices and departments on campus to ensure that students with disabilities have full access to, and participation in, university activities. ODA strives to create a positive campus environment where students with disabilities are encouraged to pursue careers on the basis of personal interest and ability.
Related University Links
Procedures for Acquiring Accommodations
Helpful Third Party Links
Americans with Disabilities Act information - Catholic University