The first of its kind in Texas, the Disability Cultural Center at UT Austin began as an idea shared by students, faculty and staff who wanted a space where disability is respected and valued as part of campus life. Here’s our story. 

Spring 2021- Summer 2022: The Idea Takes Shape 

In Spring 2021, a group of students, faculty and staff expressed interest in establishing a DCC and began meeting to discuss goals, ideas and plans. Student groups, including the Disability Advocacy Student Coalition, the Student Government Disabilities and Inclusion Agency and Student Senate, created and distributed a survey to assess student interest. The response was overwhelmingly supportive.The following two semesters, the DCC Working Group developed and submitted a proposal for funding for a DCC Director salary to the Student Services Budget Committee, with support from the Division of Student Affairs and former Division of Campus and Community Engagement (DCCE). 

By Summer 2022, DCCE received termed funding for a Founding Director salary.  

Fall 2022-Spring 2023: Building the Foundation 

In Fall 2022, the DCC Working Group conducted a nationwide search and interviewed candidates for the Founding Director position, hiring a candidate to start early 2023. The Working Group also developed a proposal for the physical location of the DCC, which was reviewed and approved by the DCCE and Division of Student Affairs leadership.  

By Spring 2023, the DCC’s Founding Director, Emily Shryock, started in the full-time position. The DCC began hosting events and established a digital presence. The DCC was also awarded three years of programming funding through the University’s You Belong Here strategic direction. 

Fall 2023-Spring 2024: Growing the Program 

In Fall 2023, the DCC hired its first student staff and expanded its programs and partnerships, offering numerous events and opportunities for UT students, staff, faculty and alumni.   

In Spring 2024, The DCC moved to the Division of Student Affairs after the closure of the DCCE, becoming part of the Health and Well-being portfolio.   

Summer 2025-Spring 2026: A Place to Call Home  

In Summer 2025, the DCC moved into its first physical space in the Student Services Building. That Fall, the DCC established regular in-person hours and programming, becoming a central campus hub for disability-related opportunities. 

By Spring 2026, the space supported student research, accessibility initiatives, design projects, community partnerships and campus events.