March 25, 2005

Contact: Jo Ann Lloyd
Cal Poly Public Affairs
(805) 756-15111

Cal Poly Disability Resource Center Recognizes Volunteers

SAN LUIS OBISPO - Cal Poly's Disability Resource Center recognized the exceptional efforts of four volunteers at its recent annual awards banquet.

"We honor those who have made exceptional efforts to assist and accommodate students with disabilities into the Cal Poly educational environment," said Christine Parker-Kennedy, academic advisor at the center. Supporters of the Disability Resource Center from across campus and throughout the community attended the event, including many volunteer readers who helped students with disabilities throughout the year.

Jeannine DiPasquale, interim assistant director of student support services, received the Outstanding Faculty/Staff Award for her "staunch support and positive influence in the lives of many students with disabilities."

Linda Halisky, interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts, was awarded the Administrator of the Year Award. "Linda takes a personal interest in students with disabilities and has been a strong advocate for the timely provision of classroom accommodations," Parker-Kennedy said.

Arroyo Grande resident Sally Kadota was recognized as an Outstanding Volunteer Reader for "20 years of continuous dedication and willingness to read any textbook that was needed by students with print impairments."

Scott Barton, a graduating industrial technology major, was honored as the Student of the Year for "his exceptional school spirit and his cheerful willingness to take on any project as a DRC employee," Parker-Kennedy said. As a member of the Running Thunder spirit organization, Barton has for several years been the keeper of the "P" on the hill above the residence halls.

Also during the banquet, 11 students were awarded a $400 honorarium, funded by contributions from corporate and individual sponsors. The students were chosen on the basis of need, scholarship, personal and academic goals, and community and campus involvement.
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