Welcome to Orediggers Disability Activism and Community!

Hey! My name is Sarah Gifford (she/her) and I am very excited to be this year’s ODAC President. I am a third year student majoring in Civil Engineering and minoring in statistics and computational and applied mathematics. When I am not doing school activities or homework, I enjoy baking bagels and muffins and puzzling. I am involved in ODAC because I have faced physical accessibility issues on campus, and I have mental health diagnoses. I want to make campus a more inclusive and accessible environment for all Orediggers to enjoy. Outside of ODAC, I am involved in the American Society of Civil Engineers, Society of Women Engineers, and Society for Women in Mathematics. Feel free to reach out with any questions and I look forward to meeting you!

My name is Maddie Fox (she/they) and I’m excited to be the ODAC Treasurer this year! I’m a third year student in Environmental Engineering with a minor in Computational and Applied Math. I’m an avid climber, skier, hiker, and general outdoor enthusiast! When I’m not on the side of a mountain, I am passionate about spreading awareness about neurodiversity initiatives on campus. I was diagnosed with autism following my first year here after some serious challenges adjusting to college. I have experienced the struggle of getting access to the accommodations I need, and I want to make that process better for others at Mines. 

Hello, my name is Aryn. I am happy to be serving as Secretary of ODAC this year! I am a Materials Engineering Junior interested in computational computer modeling. Outside of classes I enjoy cooking/baking, morning walks, and playing board games with family and friends. Having numerous rare, complicated, and potentially life-threatening physical conditions, I have benefited from the support and guidance of others. So, I am passionate about using the experiences I have been through to help others navigate new and difficult situations. Apart from ODAC, I am also involved in student research, the DI&A team with USG, and leadership in CRU. I would encourage you, wherever you are on your journey, whether you consider yourself disabled or an ally, to reach out and ask your questions or stop by a productivity night; I would love a chance to get to know you and your story.

Hi, I’m Allie Ezell (she/her/hers) and I’m the Communication Chair for ODAC! I’m going into my 3rd year studying Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, with a minor in Computational and Applied Math. Outside school, I enjoy embroidery, playing guitar, weight lifting, and skiing. Having a rare and invisible disability has made advocating for accessibility and inclusion vital to me, so apart from ODAC, I’m on the DI&A team with USG and a Peer Mentor. Feel free to reach out for help or just to chat!

Hi! My name is Jamie (she/her/hers), I am the Student Advisor for ODAC! I am a senior in Electrical Engineering with an interest in aerospace. Outside of school I love traveling, reading, and hanging out with my furbaby, Elsa. I was diagnosed with ADHD later in life and have a life changing accident at 27 which led to me becoming disabled. It has been hard to adjust to life with a disability and I strive to help others to adjust and thrive at Mines no matter their ability. I am also on the board of AIAA, a EE lab TA, undergraduate researcher, and Peer Educator. Feel free to reach out or stop by my office hours in the Wellness Center (2nd floor of the Health Center) on Tuesdays from 1-2pm