About Access!

In a March 2005 referendum, undergraduate students at the University of Victoria, voted 80% YES to direct funds to Access UVic! to organize an effective disability advocacy centre. The Access! centre on the main floor of the Student Union Building is a busy and friendly place, full of laughter and tears and the excitement of the disability movement.

The driving force behind the Disability Advocacy Centre is the Access! Executive Director, Rose Mariana Robb. Since 2001, Mrs. Robb has organized the constituency of disabled students at the University of Victoria. She is a mentor, friend and leader to many students with disabilities. Mrs. Robb’s vision and leadership sustains the organization and guides planning, education and advocacy.

Many opportunities for participation are available for both disabled and non-disabled members of the campus community. All students with disabilities are warmly invited to join the organization. A Welcome Dinner for new and returning members is held each September. Sign language classes and discussion groups run weekly. Each year Access hosts an evening of celebration and awards on December 3rd in honour of the UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities. There are Open Houses and social events throughout the year and we have a bi-weekly program on the student radio station CFUV called "Access Live".

Educational presentations and orientations to disability issues are available to all campus groups.