When the office was established in 1978, the philosophy was adopted that an individual with a disability is a person first. The disability is secondary to what that person can achieve and contribute. The mission of Disability Concerns is to ensure full and equal participation for persons with disabilities in the Illinois State University community through:
Empowering individuals
Promoting equal access
Encouraging self-advocacy
Reducing attitudinal, physical, and communications barriers
Providing appropriate accommodations
The realization of academic goals
Reaching professional goals
Becoming contributing members of society and lifelong learners
