December 1–4: Hosted by the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility
Join the Fred Smithers Centre (FSC) as we celebrate 40 years of Accessibility at Saint Mary’s University! This week-long celebration highlights our ongoing commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and community through engaging workshops, interactive events, and opportunities to connect and learn.
Accessibility information: The Fred Smithers Centre strives to host inclusive and accessible events that enable all individuals to engage fully. Please email fredsmithers.centre@smu.ca for accessibility requests or specific accommodations.
Events Highlights
Grad Connections: Exploring Your Next Academic Step
Monday, December 1
1-2 p.m. | Loyola Academic 280
Thinking about continuing your studies? This session will help you explore graduate and professional academic opportunities, application tips, and resources available to support students with disabilities as they transition into advanced studies. Learn how to plan your next steps with confidence and accessibility in mind.
The Studio Presents: Accessible Word Documents & PowerPoints
Monday, December 1
2-4 p.m. | Atrium 306
The Studio for Teaching and Learning provides an opportunity to learn how to create more accessible Word and PowerPoint documents. During the workshop, participants will have an opportunity to work on their own document(s) and ask questions.
BarrierU! Virtual Escape Room
Escape from BarrierU and create AccessibleU. Unlearn myths and learn about accessibility. It takes less than 30 minutes! As you complete challenges, you’ll get words needed to solve the final puzzle statement and win prizes!
Breakfast Club
Tuesday, December 2
9-11:30 a.m. | Student Centre Lobby
Start your day with a warm breakfast and good company! Join us for a community breakfast hosted by the Community Food Room in partnership with the Fred Smithers Centre. Enjoy great food, learn more about campus resources, and connect with peers and staff in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Genio Demonstration & Assistive Tech Q&A
Tuesday, December 2
Noon–1:30 p.m. | Secunda Marine Boardroom, 4th Floor Sobey School of Business
Discover the latest in assistive technology and digital tools that enhance learning and accessibility. This demonstration will feature Genio and a variety of other assistive technologies available through the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility, followed by an open Q&A with an Accessibility Advisor. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, explore adaptive devices, and gain practical insight into the tools and supports available on campus.
Connect & Create: An Accessibility Week Social
Tuesday, December 2
4-6 p.m | 5th Floor Student Centre Lounge
Join us for Connect & Create, a relaxed and inclusive crafting session during Accessibility Week! Meet Hailey, the Accessibility Peer Success Coach, and enjoy some creative activities while socializing with peers. Take a break, connect with others, and explore your creativity in a welcoming space designed to support connection and self-expression.
Fred Smithers Centre Birthday Pop-Up
Wednesday, December 3
10 a.m-1 p.m | Loyola Colonnade
Stop by and help us celebrate 40 years of accessibility services at Saint Mary’s! The pop-up will feature giveaways, light refreshments, and a chance to learn about the Centre’s history and impact over the past four decades. Come share in the celebration and connect with the community that makes accessibility a campus-wide value.
SEI Study Session
Wednesday, December 3
Noon-3 p.m. | 5th Floor of the Student Centre
Join the Student Employment Initiative (SEI) for a group study session in celebration of Accessibility Week! Drop in to study for finals, enjoy snacks, and connect with SEI staff, students, and Accessibility Peer Coach, Hailey. This is a great chance to prepare for exams in a supportive and inclusive space.
Therapy Dog Drop-In
Wednesday, December 3
1-2 p.m. | Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility
Take a break from your busy week and enjoy some pawsitive vibes with Meri, the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog! Drop in for cuddles, wagging tails, and a little calm in the middle of a busy time. Whether you stay for five minutes or the whole session, Meri is sure to brighten your day!
Accommodate 101
Wednesday, December 3
2-2:45 p.m | Virtual
Join us for an introductory session on Accommodate, the new test-management portal used by the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility at Saint Mary’s University.
Accommodate is a platform where students can book tests, request accommodations, and manage their accessibility needs, all in one place. It’s also a streamlined system for instructors to view which students in their courses are registered with the Centre, monitor test requests, and securely upload exams through a fully protected portal. This session will provide a clear overview of how Accommodate supports both students and faculty in creating a smooth, accessible testing process across campus. Join us to get familiar with this essential new tool.
How to Create Accessible PDFs
Thursday, December 4
2-4 p.m. | Atrium 306
Join Accessibility Lead, Jennifer Webb, to explore creating more accessible PDFs using various software. Learn how PDFs are processed for various neuro-diverse experiences, explore accessibility check tools and get templates to build off accessible-ready documents. This hands-on workshop will allow participants to develop or work on their own documents, get help and ask questions.