Ariya is bilingual (English and Kurdish) and working on learning more. Ariya's interests include falling down research rabbit-holes, poetry, tabletop games, reading (sci-fi, fantasy, horror, etc.), podcasts, and spending time with loved ones. Ariya is neutral about frogs, despite a growing collection of frog-themed memorabilia. Ariya loves to talk about pets. Ariya is bad at writing their own description.

Lisa’s background has been Government Contracting for over 18 years. She currently holds an Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS) with various certifications. In 2016, Lisa began working at VCU’s DSS office, which is currently the Office of Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity. She has been the Office Manager for over 5 years and feels this has been the most rewarding experience, having the opportunity to work with the most amazing people and meet the most extraordinary students during this career journey.

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  Erin joined the SAEO team in Fall 2025, as the Director. Erin brings experience as a disability specialist, instructor, and university administrator to her role. Erin is passionate about increasing access to education for all students. 

As the Accessible Technologies Specialist at SAEO, Cedar’s role balances case management, assistive tech demos, and coordination of captioning and interpreting services. They are a co-facilitator for the neurodivergent support group, and they assist with instruction of the UNIV 191 Transition to College course. Cedar has experience in the fields of peer-led mental health, harm reduction, and autonomous mutual aid organizing. A neuroqueer and disabled individual themselves, Cedar is no stranger to resourceful and scrappy problem solving, authentic engagement, advocacy, and the value of connection. They love helping students build confidence in their unique strengths, and while Cedar is here to offer information and resources, they trust you as the expert of your own experience.

Sydney has a background in disability advocacy working to create more accessible campus communities. She has experience partnering with campus organizations to incorporate universal design principles. Sydney is always eager to learn new things and listen to other’s stories. Outside of the office you might find her plucking harp strings, listening to a new book, working on a craft, or exploring along the river.

WOW! What can I say about myself in a few short words? You have probably seen me around the Testing Access Center (TAC) if you receive testing accommodations through our office. I am here to help with all of your testing-related concerns. I hold a B.S. in Social Sciences and have a background in the K-12 and Higher Ed settings.  If you ever find me in the wild (outside of the office) you might find me with my nose in a Harry Potter book accompanied by large diet coke.  I think Rubeus Hagrid said it best, “I am what I am, and I’m not ashamed.”

Brandi is the Interim Director for SAEO. She assists with providing accommodation requests for students while overseeing both the SAEO Scholars and Learning Specialist Program. Brandi received a doctoral degree in Special Education, with a concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling, from the University of Texas at Austin in 2008 and her master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in 2004.  She has extensive experience as an educator and service provider for individuals with disabilities. As a black disabled woman, she believes all people should be supported to reach their chosen life goals and hopes to be an effective source for college students with disabilities.

Emma is the exam proctor for the SAEO Testing Access Center. It is a wonderful experience to work in a safe and supportive place dedicated to building a community where every person is valued. Emma has a background in special education services in elementary school settings. She has two cats and enjoys going to local parks and listening to music when she is not at work.