Advocacy in Action: An Alum's Journey Promoting Disability Awareness and Navigating Support at JJC
Join host Jen Davis in this compelling episode of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, featuring guests Esli Ramos, a JJC alum and current student at Lewis University, and Adam Wouk, the Director of Disability Services at JJC. The episode delves into the significance of Disability Awareness Month, with Adam detailing the comprehensive services and accommodations his office provides to support students with disabilities. Esli shares her personal journey navigating JJC as a visually impaired student and her pivotal role in reviving the Disability Awareness Club during the pandemic.
The conversation highlights JJC’s initiatives to enhance accessibility, such as innovative programs like the After 22 program and social skills development groups. The episode also announces the upcoming fundraising event, 'An Accessible Night Under the Stars,' with proceeds supporting disability services. Throughout the discussion, Jen, Esli, and Adam emphasize overcoming persistent stigma, fostering inclusive environments, and the importance of continued advocacy and support for students with disabilities. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on the strides being made in disability awareness and the call to action for ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive education for all.
Creators and Guests
Host
Jen Davis
Jen Davis currently serves as the Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager at Joliet Junior College. As a former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education serving students at various points in their educational and professional careers. In her current role, Jen works to foster meaningful relationships with JJC alumni, bridging past experiences with present opportunities. Her outreach efforts include planning small and large-scale events, designing and executing yearly social media, direct mail and e-campaigns, and collaborating with other departments on campus to keep alumni engaged and connected. On occasion, Jen will also expand her role to that of JJC’s mascot, Wiley Wolf, for on-campus events and print media.
Guest
Adam Wouk
Adam D. Wouk is an experienced higher education professional with a focus on supporting students with disabilities. He holds a Master of Science in School Counseling from Saint Xavier University and a Type 73 School Counseling Certificate from the state of Illinois. Currently, he serves as the Director of Disability Services at Joliet Junior College, where he manages ADA accommodations for 1,200 students and leads a team of seven specialists. Previously, Adam directed disability services and learning support programs at Roosevelt University, designing policies and faculty training focused on Universal Design. He is a frequent speaker on accessibility topics and has published articles on the college experience for students with disabilities.
Producer
Amanda Quinn
Amanda Quinn currently serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement at Joliet Junior College, where she leads the college's fundraising efforts with a focus on major gifts and corporate support. With over 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda aligns fundraising strategies with the college’s priorities to ensure growth and success. She has a proven track record of enhancing annual fund programs, organizing key events, and cultivating valuable relationships with donors. Amanda's strategic vision and dedication have significantly contributed to the advancement of Joliet Junior College.
Guest
Esli Ramos
Esli Ramos is a current student at Lewis University studying childcare and special education. During her time at Joliet Junior College, Esli was the President of the Disability Awareness Club and a member of Latinos Unidos, the International Student Club, and Varsity Christian Fellowship. She also supported Black Student Union and the JJC Pride Alliance. Having Retinitis Pigmentosa, which is a serious visual impairment requiring the use of a cane to navigate, Esli relied on the support and services offered by JJC’s Disability Services Department and has become a leading student advocate for disability awareness at Lewis University. There she started a new club called Access-Ability, does audio for the university news and broadcast channel, and is involved in Best Buddies, which is an organization that pairs people with disabilities to engage in different activities together. Esli is a proud 2022 graduate of JJC and enjoys dancing and crocheting in her spare time.
