Gonzaga University Hosts Inaugural Zags for Abilities Fair

On December 3, 2024, Gonzaga University celebrated an afternoon of empowerment and connection at the first-ever Zags for Abilities Fair. Organized by the Department of Special Education and enriched by a community lunch generously sponsored by Zag Dining by Sodexo, the event fostered a collaborative atmosphere, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and local organizations to champion disability inclusion and advocacy.

The fair offered participants an opportunity to explore pivotal disability rights legislation, engage with actionable strategies for fostering radical inclusion, and build meaningful networks to enhance community partnerships and awareness.

Sodexo hosted a highly interactive table featuring a micro-learning session on "Unconscious Bias", which drew significant interest from attendees. This session opened conversations around workplace inclusivity and demonstrated the company’s commitment to creating equitable spaces. Multiple area organizations dedicated to supporting people with disabilities also joined in, sharing resources and building connections with community members.

This focus on disability advocacy aligns with Sodexo's longstanding commitment to inclusion. In 2024, Sodexo earned a 100% score on the Disability Equality Index, a recognition of its excellence as an employer of choice for individuals with disabilities. This achievement, marking Sodexo's tenth year of participation and fifth consecutive perfect score, underscores the company’s global leadership in fostering inclusive practices.

At Gonzaga, Zag Dining by Sodexo proudly leads by example as one of the largest campus employers of people with disabilities. Its inclusive hiring practices and welcoming environment reflect a commitment to empowering all individuals to thrive in their roles.

A special thanks goes to Kim Weber, Professor and Chair of the Department of Special Education & Applied Behavior Analysis, whose vision and leadership brought this impactful event to life. Her dedication to inclusivity is inspiring, and collaboration for future events is already underway. The excitement is building for more advocacy and connection at Gonzaga in the spring semester.

The Zags for Abilities Fair marks a pivotal step in Gonzaga University’s ongoing journey toward radical inclusion, offering a model for how communities can unite to support and celebrate diversity in ability.