Conversations with Kenzie
IDA College Q&A: Interview with Dr. Jennifer Jordan, Associate VP of Student Affairs, University of West Georgia – October 2025
Hi! I’m Kenzie Leonard, and welcome back to the IDA College Q&A series. Here, we explore tools to help navigate the transition from high school to college for students with learning disabilities. I created this project after struggling to find information on how accommodations, testing, and accessible services differ in higher educational environments. Stay tuned for more exciting interviews about navigating college life and the application process as a student with a learning disability.
Today, we’ll hear from Dr. Jennifer Jordan, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of West Georgia. To learn more, visit the University of West Georgia’s Accessibility and Testing Services Center website: https://www.westga.edu/student-services/accessibility-testing/index.php, or contact the center at accessibility-services@westga.edu.
Could you please introduce yourself and the role of the Office of Disability Services at the University of West Georgia (UWG)?
My name is Dr. Jennifer Jordan, and I serve as an Associate Vice President for Student Affairs. I oversee departments including accessibility and testing, counseling, health services, health promotions, and Newnan Student Services.
The Office of Accessibility and Testing Services at UWG ensures students with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities.
What are the major differences between accommodation services in high school and college?
In high school, accommodations are often guided by an IEP or 504 Plan and implemented by teachers. In college, students must self-identify, provide documentation, and actively engage with the Office of Accessibility and Testing Services to receive accommodations.
The process is more student-driven and requires proactive communication.
Does the University of West Georgia offer financial aid and/or scholarship options specifically for dyslexic students?
While UWG does not currently offer scholarships specifically for dyslexic students, general financial aid and scholarships are available. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarships through organizations like the International Dyslexia Association to see if their unique needs have funding opportunities.
When during the college application process would you suggest prospective or current applicants contact the Office of Disability Services to discuss accommodations?
Prospective or current applicants should contact the Office of Accessibility and Testing Services as early as possible—ideally during the application process or immediately after acceptance. Early engagement ensures timely review of documentation and implementation of accommodations.
Are there any scenarios in which you would strongly recommend or discourage students from using the Common Application’s additional information section to discuss their dyslexia?
Students may use the Common App’s additional information section to discuss their dyslexia if it helps contextualize academic performance or explain gaps. However, it should be used thoughtfully and not as a substitute for formal documentation or application with the Office of Accessibility and Testing Services.
What do you find to be the most common mistakes that preclude students from accessing accommodations in college?
The most frequent issues that delay receiving accommodations include:
- Not submitting complete or current documentation.
- Waiting too long to request accommodations (i.e., late in the semester).
- Not following up after the initial intake or not sharing the Student Accommodation Report (SAR) with their faculty at the beginning of the semester.
Does the Office of Disability Services provide assistance in communicating with professors about accommodations?
Yes, the Office provides a Student Accommodation Report (SAR) that students can share with professors. Staff are available to help students navigate these conversations and advocate for their needs.
Do professors receive ongoing training about working with students with learning disabilities?
UWG offers ongoing training for faculty on supporting students with learning disabilities, including dyslexia. This ensures instructors are aware of best practices and legal responsibilities.
How often do students need to reapply or meet with your staff to maintain their accommodations?
Students do need to reapply each semester, and they are encouraged to check in with the Accessibility Specialist if their needs change or if they encounter challenges.
What documentation does the Office of Disability Services require when students request accommodations?
Documentation must be current and signed by a qualified professional. UWG provides specific guidelines for different disabilities, including dyslexia. Students must submit this through the Accommodations Request Application Portal. This is a Smartsheet form that collects information and documentation.
Is there a dedicated staff member within the Office of Disability Services for students with dyslexia?
While there may not be a staff member solely dedicated to dyslexia, the Accessibility team includes specialists trained to support students with learning disabilities, including dyslexia. We also partner with the Regents Center for Learning Disabilities (RCLD) and the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation (CIDI).
Are students receiving accommodations granted early registration access and/or scheduling priority for classes?
Yes, students with accommodations may be eligible for early registration or priority scheduling, depending on their documented needs.
Are waivers available for specific academic requirements, such as foreign language courses or a minimum course load, for students with dyslexia?
Waivers for requirements like foreign language or minimum course loads may be available on a case-by-case basis, supported by documentation and reviewed by the Accessibility team.
Do students have access to an on-campus or online writing center?
UWG offers both on-campus and online writing support through its Writing Center, which is available to all students, including those with learning disabilities.
Does the University of West Georgia provide access to specialized tutoring or mentorship for dyslexic students?
While UWG does not offer dyslexia-specific tutoring, students can access academic support services, peer mentoring, and learning strategy coaching through the Center for Academic Success.