Applicable to students, employees, as well as applicants for employment and educational programs, ADA protection applies only to qualified disabled individuals who satisfy the requisite skill, experience, education and other bona fide requirements of an employment or educational endeavor in which one is engaged or desires to pursue, and who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the same. The University of West Florida with its strong commitment to diversity respects each student and employee's dignity, right to contribute and desire for personal growth, development and accomplishment. In this same spirit, the University promotes equal opportunity for disabled persons by providing reasonable accommodations. Informal resolution of all complaints and strict adherence to the spirit of the ADA Laws are strongly encouraged. Reasonable accommodations are provided to ensure maximum reduction or elimination of unnecessary barriers between individuals' abilities and the requirements for performing essential functions necessary to the successful pursuit of employment or educational endeavors.
Reasonable accommodation is simply a modification or adjustment to the way things are usually done.
The obligation to provide reasonable accommodations applies to all aspects of employment and educational pursuits within the university community. Since reasonable accommodation needs are so diverse and unique to individuals, it is generally the obligation of an individual with a disability to request a reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodation is viewed as a key factor in insuring non-discrimination of individuals with disabilities. The University is committed to the reduction or elimination of unnecessary barriers between individual's abilities and the requirements for performing essential job or educational functions. According to ADA Laws, disabled students and employees shall not be denied the right to file formal complaints at any time.