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 Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations at Joliet Junior College. A former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education, supporting students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys. In her leadership role, Jen oversees initiatives that strengthen connections between JJC and its alumni, fostering engagement and building lasting relationships. Her responsibilities include strategic planning for alumni outreach, organizing small and large-scale events, managing annual giving campaigns, and collaborating across departments to create meaningful opportunities for alumni involvement.
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 serves as the Executive Director of the Joliet Junior College Foundation and Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, a role she assumed in January 2026. Throughout her career at JJC, she has held several key positions including Grant Writer, Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager, and Director of Institutional Advancement, giving her a deep understanding of the college’s philanthropic priorities and partnerships. With more than 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda leads philanthropic engagement strategies that advance student success. Her strategic vision, strong donor relationships, and commitment to JJC’s mission continue to drive the college’s growth and impact.
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.
