Jenni Sandler, left, and Julie Pollard share the same goals of equity, inclusion and opportunity for people with disabilities in higher education. Learn how their unique experiences influence the work they do today.
They shared their stories in an article originally published in the print edition of the Federal Way Mirror on June 1, 2018.
By Jenni Sandler
When I started at Highline in 2001, I was charged with one singular mission by our then vice president for Academic Affairs: to expand Highline’s reach to include students with intellectual disabilities in campus programming and services.
Highline already had an employment program funded through King County focused on providing community-based services to this population, dating back to the late 1970s. The program’s focus had been to support individuals with disabilities to live and work in their communities alongside their peers, family and friends.
It had little to no campus recognition or awareness …
Over the loudspeaker the bulletin announcer read, “If you’re interested in volunteering at Camp Easter Seal come to the counseling center and pick up an application.” I was intrigued.
It was 1985; I was 14 and ready for a little freedom. I picked up the application materials and learned the camp was for people with disabilities. I wasn’t sure who that meant exactly, but I filled out the application anyway with visions of a week with no parents and the chance to meet boys — and got in.
I arrived to camp excited at my opportunity for freedom. The week began, and I fell in love. Not with a boy, but a mission. …
Read the rest of the article.
About the Authors
Jenni Sandler is the director of Access Services and ACHIEVE at Highline College. She has a master’s degree in adult education from Seattle University. When she is not at work, you can find her on a soccer field somewhere cheering on one of her two children.
Julie Pollard is the associate director of ACHIEVE at Highline College. She has a master’s degree in education – learning and technology from Western Governor’s University. When she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family and travelling.
About Highline Voices
Highline Voices brings a range of diverse perspectives to our community, featuring the expertise of Highline College staff and faculty. Read other articles in the Highline Voices series that began in 2016. All Highline employees are welcome to contribute to the series. Email Tanya Powers or Kari Coglon Cantey for guidelines.