Addie Colciaghi ’27, MAT ’28, was inspired to create the disability student union to provide greater representation, a sense of community and advocacy for students with disabilities.

“We strive to educate the Quinnipiac community about the wide spectrum of disabilities, to advocate for improved accessibility across campus and to foster a supportive, empowered and inclusive environment for students,” said Colciaghi. “I wanted to create a space where disabled students and allies could come together, feel supported and work toward a more inclusive campus culture.”

Outside of academic accommodations and existing campus resources, the disability student union focuses on providing a student-centered space that brings people together and gives students a voice. 

“I think the disability student union adds to student life at Quinnipiac by creating a space where all students, especially those with disabilities, feel seen, supported and included,” she said. “It’s a place where we can talk openly about accessibility, share real experiences and build community with people who care about making the campus more inclusive.”

Through engaging and educational events, guest speakers and personal conversations, Colciaghi’s goal is to help students understand perspectives that they might not have considered before.

As an advocate for inclusive practice as well as an aspiring special education teacher, founding the organization connects with both her personal and academic interests. 

“It’s helped me grow into the kind of teacher I want to be —  someone who listens, voices her opinions, advocates and works to create meaningful change for her students,” said Colciaghi. “It’s one thing to talk about inclusion in class, but being part of a group that’s trying to make campus more accessible has made those lessons feel more meaningful and relevant to the things I’m learning. It’s been a great way to meet people with different experiences and perspectives, and it’s helped me better understand the challenges students with disabilities face both in and out of the classroom.”  

Establishing and leading the club has been both a meaningful and challenging endeavor, shaping Colciaghi’s resilience and leadership skills

“Starting the club has come with challenges, but it’s also been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done,” she said. “It’s helped me grow as a leader, advocate and communicator. It has helped me understand the daily challenges students face and how much of a difference we can create when we are together. Being a growing organization, we are just getting started, but I confidently believe that this organization has the potential to make a big difference in the Quinnipiac community.”

As a new club, Colciaghi is focusing on growth and collaboration on campus, which includes working alongside other campus organizations like Women Empowered, Tri Delta and hosting events like movie nights, trivia and sensory toy-making.

“Our goal is to raise awareness about different types of disabilities in a fun, engaging way that brings together a diverse group of students,” she said. “We’re also working on organizing events with guest speakers who can share their personal experiences with disability, which we think will be powerful and educational. On top of that, we have some exciting ideas for improving accessibility around campus. Once we’re able to receive funding, we’re looking forward to partnering with campus offices to advocate for those changes and bring them to life.”

For Bobcats looking to get involved, the disability student union will host its kickoff meeting in early September, where new members can meet the executive board, learn more about the club and upcoming events, discuss accessibility around campus and engage in fun activities.