MCC Hosts Panel in Honor of International Day of Persons with Disabilities

On Wednesday, December 3, Middlesex Community College’s Office of Student Access and Support Services (SASS) held a panel in honor of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The panel featured Middlesex alumni, students and employees who identify as disabled or having a diagnosis.

“This panel showed how hearing someone’s lived experience can reshape perspectives,” said Molly Hayes, MCC’s Student Access Specialist. “The goal was for panelists to share their insights, stories, and experiences with current students with hopes to provide insight, foster meaningful connections, and offer encouragement through their lived story. It is such an important form of advocacy. When we listen to each other, we grow as a community.”

Panelists included human services alum Jonathan Valdez, employee and alum Kevin Doherty, employee Brittney Moore-Miller, and MCC student MCC student Rylie Hegarty. Held on MCC’s Bedford Campus, the event ran from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. as a lunch and learn opportunity.

In 2023, Valdez was named one of the Difference Makers of the Week by the New England Patriots for his volunteer work at The Carroll Center for the Blind. Interested in reconnecting with his peers and employees at the college, he was excited to participate in the panel.

“Working with SASS throughout my journey was a great experience,” Valdez said. “Without their help along with TRIO Program for Student Achievement, I don't know how I would successfully complete my major requirements. [My experience at MCC] will help me reach my goals by giving me more opportunities for my next steps when looking for the path for work.”

Doherty is now the Service Desk Support, Asset Management of Information Technology (IT) Inventory, and Project Specialist. After getting an associate degree in IT from MCC, he transferred to UMass Lowell to earn a bachelor’s in management information systems. While studying, he worked part-time as an Assistive Technology Coordinator and was able to receive assistance from MCC’s SASS team.

“I wanted to share my student experiences with getting accommodations and overcoming struggles with my learning disability,” Doherty said. “SASS staff gives their dedication to students’ success. SASS provided me the guidance, support, and confidence to pursue my dreams of earning a degree from a higher educational institution.”

As the Student Assessment Coordinator, Moore-Miller manages course placement for new students. In her role, she supports the SASS office by providing accommodated testing services for students taking courses on the Lowell Campus with approved accommodations.

“I wanted to share my journey as a success story for someone that navigated life with a disability and was able to transition to a fulfilling professional career,” Moore-Miller said. “SASS is a wonderful resource for students to use if they qualify for services.”