I have the distinct honor and pleasure to serve as Director of the SAEO office, Chair of VCU’s Transforming Accessibility Initiative, and member of the Student Affairs Leadership Team here at Virginia Commonwealth University. I earned a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Loyola University, Maryland, and an Ed.D. in Leadership through VCU’s School of Education. In addition to my roles here at VCU, I am an active member of the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) community, regularly publish in educational journals, and present at workshops and conferences. 

Over the course of my career as a Student Affairs and Disability/Accessibility Services professional, I have worked in a wide range of educational and institutional settings, though my mission has remained consistent. In all my interactions with students, colleagues, and families, I strive to take an individualized and person-centered approach to ensure equal access, inclusion, wellness, and success for all students. I look forward to connecting with you to see how I may be of service.

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.

Chris is the Assistant Director at SAEO and facilitates the academic accommodation requests of students enrolled with the office. He also oversees SAEO's Assistive Technology supports. He has a background in behavioral science, and is particularly passionate about career development, college transition, and writing support for students with disabilities. A former game developer, culinary instructor, and camp counselor Chris brings a wide range of life experiences into his work with students. It is his belief that empathy is the foundation of any successful relationship - so he brings that too! “Education is what survives when what has been learnt has been forgotten.” - B.F. Skinner

Daniel Foster is an Access Specialist at SAEO and works with students whose last names begin with D-K. As a trauma survivor, first-generation college student, and a queer and neurodiverse individual, Daniel strives to support students in ways that are individualized and person-centered. Daniel is also a VCU alumni with a B.S. in Environmental Studies and is currently pursuing an M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. When Daniel is not at work or school, they can be found spending time with chosen family, pulling weeds in the garden, enjoying a board or video game, or caught up in an existential daydream.

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.”

I have been lucky to be a part of the SAEO team in various roles since the fall semester of 2016. I strive to provide growth opportunities that help students learn how to advocate for their needs. As a student affairs professional, I am a facilitator of those learning experiences and I advocate on behalf of students who are still learning those skills. When meeting with students, it is important for me to create a safe space that supports students in sharing their stories and experiences. I believe in meeting students at their current level of functioning and working with them to identify their long-term or immediate goals. As an Access Specialist in SAEO, I offer supports and resources that will assist students in reaching those goals. I incorporate a person-centered, narrative, and feminist-based theoretic approach to my work with students.

In addition to my work in SAEO, I also co-facilitate the COVID-19 Support Group for Students Managing Chronic Health Conditions with VCU University Counseling Services. I earned a B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of Richmond and an M.Ed. in Counselor Education, with a concentration in College Counseling and Student Affairs, from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Brandi is the Associate 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.

Coming soon!