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| Amy Roloff |
Amy Roloff, star of the hit TLC reality show, “Little People, Big World” will be giving a free keynote address at Cal Poly Pomona on Tuesday, Jan. 27, in the Ursa Major suite of the Bronco Student Center from noon to 12:50 p.m.
Roloff is headlining the university's inaugural Disability Awareness Week, which aims to increase awareness and create a better understanding of people with disabilities on campus and in the community.
“Little People, Big World” follows the daily lives of the Roloffs, an extraordinary family composed of both little and average size people. Amy, the matriarch of the family, was born with dwarfism to average size parents.
Having faced many challenges and obstacles, Roloff will share her experiences and observations, and inspire individuals to be the best that they can be, regardless of their environment, the perception of others and any barriers that may come their way.
“[Disability Awareness Week] is to encourage the idea that a disability shouldn't be seen as a limitation, but rather signs of capabilities, strength, perseverance and determination in accomplishing all life endeavors,” says Dr. Catherine Schmitt-Whitaker, director of the Disability Resource Center.
Disability Awareness Week was organized by the ACCESS group and disABILITY alliance, which are both comprised of students, faculty and staff.
A multitude of events will be held in observance of the initiative. The events kick off Saturday, Jan. 24, and will run through Thursday, Jan. 29. For more information, contact the Disabilities Resource Center at (909) 869-3333.
Saturday, Jan. 24
Wheelchair Basketball Game
Kellogg Gym
5:30 p.m., 7 p.m.
Using wheelchairs, University President Michael Ortiz, Provost Marten denBoer, ASI President Jeff Weintraub and political science professor Renford Reese will face off against The Cypress College Chargers Wheelchair Basketball Team at halftime during the men's basketball game at 7 p.m. The Chargers will also play an exhibition game at halftime during the women's basketball game at 5:30 p.m. The Cypress College Chargers are part of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association.
Monday, Jan. 26
Art Exhibit Opening and Reception
“Impressions of Disabilities in Our Lives”
Bronco Student Center
noon to 2 p.m.
This exhibit, which features drawing, painting, photography and sculpture, reflects the ways in which individuals are impacted by having or knowing someone who is disabled. Hors d'oeuvres will be provided by the United Culinarians, a group who promotes world peace through world cuisine. The artwork will be on display in the Bronco Student Center until Feb. 26.
Tuesday, Jan. 27
Featured Speaker
Amy Roloff of TLC's “Little People, Big World”
Bronco Student Center, Ursa Major
noon to 12:50 p.m.
Roloff will share her experiences and give an inspiring discussion on how to overcome obstacles.
Wednesday, Jan. 28
A Day in the Life: “Perspective of a Learning Disabled Student” Workshop
Faculty Center for Professional Development
Bldg. 1, Rm. 227
Presented by CPP students Paul Brooks and Jordan Budisantoso.
The Myth behind Sexuality and Disability
Bronco Student Center, Ursa Minor
3 to 4 p.m.
University Village Community Center
7 to 8 p.m.
This workshop will discuss how the understanding of one's sexuality leads to a healthy sex life. It will be presented by Leo Orange, coordinator of Disabled Student Programs and Services at Oxnard College.
Thursday, Jan. 29
Disability Resource Fair
Bronco Student Center, Ursa Minor
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Discover the wealth of services and information designed to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. Exhibitors from both on and off-campus will showcase their resources and demonstrate some of the assistive technology available today.
Musical Performance
University Park
noon to 1 p.m.
Musical act to be determined.