The new ramp and elevator at the International Center officially opened for business Friday, February 7. Susan Peters, an associate professor in Counseling, Educational Psychology and Special Education, cut the red ribbon gracing the newly installed elevator.
"This is one small step for people with disabilities, and one large step for the University community," Peters said. The grand opening and ribbon cutting was symbolically important, said Provost Lou Anna Kimsey Simon, who attended and spoke briefly. The elevator's first official patrons included Peters, her canine companions Skywalker and Zoey and Margaret Chmielewski, director of OPHS.
After a reception held on the second floor of the center, however, the elevator was not functioning. The potential for breakdowns worries Peters. "What if I am planning to go to a seminar on the second floor, arrive a few minutes before it is to begin, and find out the elevator is not working?" she asked.
"That would be a catastophe - as it is difficult to reschedule a room at the last minute."
Peters said she does enjoy the casual and informal meetings in the hallways that are now possible. "I am now very happy to be on a par with my peers in terms of access to not only programs, but the library and various other offices on the second floor," Peters said.