Deaf Equity & Accessibility Program Director for University of Rochester

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Job Description

In alignment with the University of Rochester commitment to Diversity and Inclusion the Deaf Equity and Accessibility Program Director leads the strategic direction and vision that creates a culture of learning and empowerment for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHOH) Professionals and Learners. This position actively engages and communicates with internal and external stakeholders to optimize relations between DHOH and Hearing community members, with special attention given to cross-cultural challenges associated with audism.

Under the guidance of the Associate Vice Provost of Disability Compliance, the Deaf Equity and Accessibility Program Director functions with major latitude for independent judgment and proactive decision-making. The Program Director must be innovative and have the ability to identify new community needs and employ creative approaches to expand and offer unique programming designed to meet the needs of Deaf Professionals and learners that are culturally informed and responsive. Drives operational practices and recommends new policies/procedures with the goal of improving service towards minority language professionals and ensures that internal standards and accountability are upheld across programs and locations.

Responsibility

  • Develops and builds upon trust with University leadership in order to build necessary infrastructure to support DHOH professionals and learners. Develops and builds trust with DHOH professionals and learners, inviting feedback regarding access and experience. Solicits feedback from DHOH professionals and learners and interpreters to identify challenges in access needs and recommends needed updates to institutional polices regarding communication access. Conducts regular gap analyses to identify potentially unmet needs and provides recommendations to address. Acts as a principle advocate for effective services for DHOH professionals and learners regarding communication. Clarifies issues, consults with institutional leadership, offers possible solutions and follows up to ensure resolution of concerns.
  • Coordinates and provides education to employees and affiliates regarding relevant social and cultural aspects of DHOH professionals and learners. Collaborates with appropriate offices to evaluate processes and provide recommendations to mitigate barriers. Negotiates conference access for DHOH professionals and learners, in collaboration with the Manager of Deaf-Professional Interpreters. Provides informal and formal coaching and mentoring to leaders, supervisors and staff on professional development, diversity, inclusion, Deaf-centered workplace culture issues and culture change methods. 25% Y N
  • Partners with the hiring department, HR and other key stakeholders to ensure access needs and resources are provided for new hires. Researches, advises and oversees the development of culturally relevant messaging for the DHOH community, including video-based communication. Develops and executes an outreach strategy to educate the UR community regarding communication access resources available internally and the benefits of utilizing those resources.
  • Collaborates with the Manager of Deaf-Professional Interpreters to develop and coordinate professional development activities. Advises on mitigation of barriers for DHOH professionals and learners.
  • Ensures the successful onboarding and orientation of new DHOH professionals and learners. Educates DHOH professionals and learners on communication access options and recommends appropriate resources.
  • Other duties as assigned

Key Qualifications

  • 5 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Deep knowledge of Deaf culture, and a strong understanding of the laws and ethics as they pertain to Deaf culture
  • Excellent problem-solving skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize in a complex, fast-paced environment
  • Deep understanding of ASL; experience with Native-level fluency

Contact

Please send all questions, nominations, and applications to:
Shane Feldman, Chief Executive Officer
Innivee Strategies, Inc.
Contact form

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to innivee.com/apply. All applications submitted by noon EST, will receive full consideration.

Deaf Equity & Accessibility Program Director
University of Rochester
  • Job Location: Rochester, NY
  • Company Type: Non profit
  • Industry Type: Educational Institutions
  • Service Areas: Higher Education
  • Population Served: General

About the organization

The University of Rochester, located in Rochester, New York, is a prestigious private research university renowned for its unique curriculum and strong emphasis on undergraduate research. Founded in 1850, the university is known for its flexible yet rigorous academic programs, including the notable Eastman School of Music, the Simon Business School, and strong departments in optics, medicine, and engineering. With a commitment to diversity and innovation, it offers a vibrant campus life and a wide array of degree programs across its six schools and colleges. The University of Rochester is distinguished by its collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to learning, fostering a dynamic environment that prepares students for leadership and problem-solving in an ever-changing global society.

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