New DSS director holds that all students can be empowered to succeed

Having joined Oakland University just after the new year, Kristen Swan is acclimating to her new role as director of Disability Support Services (DSS) and the OU Testing Center. In a broad sense, she sees her overriding objective as “ensuring that all students, including those with disabilities, feel safe, supported and empowered to succeed.”

Swan comes to Oakland from Wayne State University, where for eight years she served as an academic advisor and disability specialist. This work included assessing students’ program eligibility, determining reasonable accommodations, maintaining case records, coordinating retention efforts, conducting disability awareness outreach efforts and more. She has also served as a testing technician, a faculty support specialist, a family worker/case manager and teacher.

With respect and appreciation for Oakland’s strong commitment to embracing differences, the university’s new DSS director is determined to help the community foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for students with disabilities. One way Swan believes that OU faculty, staff and students can accomplish this is through collective and collaborative advocacy.

“I strongly believe that disability is an important part of diversity and that we all share in the responsibility of meeting the needs of all students,” she said. “I encourage faculty and staff to stop by DSS, introduce yourselves and get to know our team and the services we offer.”

For her and her team’s part, Swan plans to work hard to increase the visibility of the DSS, particularly so that all students with disabilities know about the services offered and how to access support.

The DSS office is located in Suite 202 in the west wing of Wilson Hall. Information is available on its web section at oakland.edu/dss or by contacting [email protected] or (248) 370-3266.