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Cornell University

Office of the Assemblies

SA R56 (2025-2026): Improving Accessibility Information and Support for Disabled Students in Residential Housing

Acknowledged by the President

  • Resolution:
    SA R56 (2025-2026): Improving Accessibility Information and Support for Disabled Students in Residential Housing
  • Day:
    April 24, 2026
  • Action:
    Acknowledged by the President
  • Summary / Notes:
  • File Attachments:
  • Text Attachment:

    Dear Zora, 

    Thank you for conveying Resolution 56: Improving Accessibility Information and Support for Disabled Students in Residential Housing. I acknowledge receipt and have asked Beth Parrott, Director of Student Disability Services, and Kath Fenzel, Director of Housing Operations & Administration, to respond to the questions and concerns raised (see below). 

    Sincerely, 

     

    Michael Kotlikoff 

     

    Cornell Housing and Student Disability Services (SDS) work collaboratively to support equitable access to residential living environments.  

    Information about residential buildings is already available on the Housing website and in StarRez, and Housing and SDS have recently partnered to improve how information about accessible residential spaces is shared with students. These efforts have included offering six in-person information sessions (with a virtual option) for rising sophomores, with an SDS representative present to provide information and to answer questions.   

    Through a recent system update, students with approved housing accommodations who participate in room selection will now only be able to select from rooms that meet their accommodation needs. This process is designed to support informed decision-making and helps ensure that students can choose a room with confidence, knowing it has already been identified as meeting their accommodation requirements.    

    While at times move-in support has been provided to students through a third-party vendor, Cornell does not offer move-out assistance or moving assistance during the academic year. Students seeking information about resources that may assist with moving personal belongings are encouraged to connect with Housing to learn more about available options. 

    Students are encouraged to connect with Housing or SDS at any time to discuss their individual circumstances, disability-related access needs, and the housing options available to them. 

    Sincerely, 

     

    Beth Parrott and Kath Fenzel