SUBJECT:  Disability Awareness Events at UCSD

I am pleased to announce and encourage faculty, staff and students to participate in the Disability Awareness events on October 12 and 13 and November 13 and 14, 1999. The purpose of these activities is to increase the awareness of, and sensitivity to, the abilities and needs of people with disabilities at UCSD.

On Tuesday, October 12, 1999, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., "A Celebration of Abilities" will be held at the Price Center Plaza. Information about people with disabilities will be presented. Featured again this year will be exceptional vocalists and guitarists Patty Hutchings and Mark Goffeney. A "Tattoos 'N' Trivia" booth will be available. Mama's Kitchen Collection Barrels will be set-up for food donations for the women, men, and children who are affected by AIDS.

On Wednesday, October 13, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., "A Celebration of Abilities" activities will be repeated at the Grassy area between Torrey Pines Centers North and South. Mama's Kitchen Collection Barrels will be available for donations. The movie "Runaway Bride" will be shown with open captioning at 7:00 p.m. in the Price Center Theatre.

On November 13 and 14 at the "Old" Main Gym and Muir Courts, the "First Annual 24-Hour Wheelchair Basketball Marathon and Tournament" will be held. The nationally recognized San Diego Xpress wheelchair basketball team will compete with UCSD's Greek and Student Organizations. As arrangements are finalized, the time of this event will be announced.

In recognition of this annual event, I am approving one hour of administrative leave with pay so that employees may attend the Disability Awareness events. Supervisors are encouraged to allow employees one hour of administrative leave with pay to attend the event when the absence does not infringe upon the performance of required job duties.

Inquiries regarding the events may be directed to the Human Resources Department Employee Rehabilitation Program at (858) 534-6744 or the UCSD Community Advocates for Disability Rights and Education at cadre@ucsd.edu.

                                                Robert C. Dynes
                                                Chancellor