North Carolina Central University and the Office of Student Disability Services will observe Disability Awareness Week with a series of special events from Oct. 9 – 12. This year’s theme, “OVERCOMING the dis- in my ABILITY,” will acknowledge the role and contributions of individuals with disabilities in our society. Former NFL player Robert Tate will provide the keynote address on Tuesday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m. in B.N. Duke Auditorium.

Tate, a nine-season veteran of the NFL, is a motivational speaker and author. Growing up, he struggled with an invisible disability, dyslexia. With hard work, extra effort, dedication and support from his mother, he was able to overcome his secret battle and now helps children with dyslexia succeed. The Robert Tate Foundation provides group mentoring to students aged 12 to 18, after-school tutoring and college scholarships.

An evening of spoken word and jazz will take place on Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. in the Student Union, followed by a disability awareness fest on Oct. 11 at 10:40 a.m. and a session on the rights and responsibilities of persons with disabilities at 6:30 p.m.

On Friday, Oct. 12, NCCU students will shadow a student with a disability before having lunch with Ms. Wheelchair North Carolina Kristian Champion at noon in the Alfonso Elder Student Union. An RSVP is required to klee@nccu.edu by Oct. 5. Seating is limited.

For more information, contact Kesha Lee, director of Student Disability Services, at 919-530-6325.

Anyone in need of accommodations due to disability or medical condition, please contact Student Disability Services at studentdisabilityservices@nccu.edu three days prior to the event.

Event partners include the Centennial Scholars Program, Office of Greek Life, Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, Student Activities Board and the Women’s Center.