The McBurney Disability Resource Center is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Forward in Access Awards – partners across UW-Madison who advance accessibility, inclusion, and equity for students with disabilities on campus.
The McBurney Center’s mission, Forward in Access, focuses on creating a university where disabled students can fully participate in academic and campus life. This work depends on collaboration, and many faculty and staff across UW-Madison play a key role in supporting students. The Forward in Access Awards honor those who demonstrate exceptional commitment to building an accessible and welcoming campus community.
For the 2024-2025 academic year, six campus partners were honored for their leadership, innovation, and dedication to disability access.
University Veteran Services
University Veteran Services (UVS) has been a strong partner in helping military-connected students with disabilities connect with the McBurney Center. UVS staff guide students through the accommodation application process, answer questions, and create a welcoming space for veterans seeking support. They also work closely with McBurney Center liaisons to help students navigate the eligibility process with clarity and confidence.
In addition to supporting individual students, UVS has contributed to a broader campus understanding of accessibility by sharing insights about the intersection of disability and military service. Their commitment to accessible presentations and digital materials improves the experience for all students.
Through thoughtful communication and care for the student community, UVS helps students access resources, build connections, and thrive at UW–Madison.
Ellen Cecil-Lemkin
Assistant Teaching Professor, Writing Center
Dr. Ellen Cecil-Lemkin has made significant contributions to improving access to writing support for students affiliated with the McBurney Center. She helped create a clear referral process that connects students directly with Writing Center staff, reducing the extra labor students with disabilities often face.
Ellen has developed workshops and writing groups designed specifically for students with disabilities. These sessions provide supportive spaces to build skills and confidence and explore strategies that meet a range of disability experiences. Her “Mid-Semester Refresh” workshop further expands these offerings.
Beyond her teaching and program development, Ellen serves as the Writing Center’s accessibility coordinator and collaborates frequently with McBurney Center staff. Her advocacy and innovative programming demonstrate a deep commitment to disability inclusion on campus.
Hailey Love
Assistant Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education
Dr. Hailey Love creates a classroom environment grounded in clarity, accessibility, and student voice. She provides timely access to course materials, communicates expectations clearly, and incorporates student feedback into her teaching.
When activities require advance planning for accessibility, Hailey collaborates directly with both the student and McBurney Center staff to ensure accommodations are thoughtful and effective.
She also teaches best practices for creating accessible academic materials, such as poster presentations, helping future educators build accessibility into their professional practice. Her approach, which balances structure with flexibility, creates a learning space where students feel respected, supported and able to engage fully in her courses.
L Sherrán Pak
Curricular Specialist, Office of the Registrar
L Sherrán Pak plays a crucial role in ensuring that Student Accommodation Letters (SALs) are delivered accurately and on time. When issues arise with instructor information or system entries in the University’s Student Information System, Sherrán quickly identifies the cause, communicates clearly, and guides colleagues through solutions.
Her proactive support for curricular representatives and her focus on preventing repeat problems strengthen the efficiency and reliability of the accommodation process.
Because of her diligence, students can rely on timely delivery of their SALs, a foundational step in receiving classroom accommodations. Her attention to detail and dedication to problem-solving significantly strengthen the University’s accommodation infrastructure.
Krista Zimonick
Learning Specialist/Technical Standards Director, School of Medicine and Public Health
As a learning specialist and accessibility leader at the School of Medicine and Public Health (SMPH), Krista Zimonick works closely with instructors and staff to implement accommodations not only in classrooms, but also complex settings such as clinical rotations, surgical environments, and statewide placement sites.
Krista leads the Technical Standards and Access to Accommodations Committee each semester, guiding thoughtful discussions that balance student access with program expectations.
She has a calm, collaborative approach that supports student success, bolsters faculty confidence, and expands what accessible medical education can be- strengthening the pathway for future physicians with disabilities.
Ruben Mota
ADA Coordinator, Office of Compliance
Dr. Ruben Mota has substantially advanced accessibility across UW-Madison and the Universities of Wisconsin. A former McBurney Center staff member, he now serves as the campus ADA Coordinator, supporting policy development, digital accessibility improvements, and disability law education.
Ruben presents to campus partners on disability, identity, and inclusion and helped develop the updated Guide to Planning Accessible Events. He also supports resources such as accommodation guidance, barrier reporting, and policy updates related to service and assistance animals.
What sets Ruben apart is his collaborative spirit and willingness to meet directly with students, staff, and committees to address access questions with care and clarity, strengthening the university’s cultural and structural commitment to inclusion.
About the McBurney Disability Resource Center
The McBurney Disability Resource Center is the primary resource for students seeking disability-related accommodations at UW–Madison. The Center works with students with physical, learning, sensory, psychological, health, and other disabilities that substantially affect major life activities.
Our vision is a universally accessible campus community that values the meaningful participation and contribution of all members. Achieving this vision requires shared responsibility among faculty, staff, campus partners and students to create accessible teaching, learning, and programs.
To learn more about accommodations or to begin the eligibility process, visit the McBurney Center’s website or contact the Center for support.
We extend our sincere congratulations to this year’s Forward in Access Award recipients and thank them for helping move UW-Madison Forward in Access!