Dr. Jess Block Nerren Reappointed as Faculty Fellow for Disability Inclusion at California State University San Bernardino

Dr. Jess Block Nerren has been reappointed as the Faculty Fellow for Disability Inclusion at California State University San Bernardino, marking a continued effort to enhance disability inclusion and awareness within the university. This role, now in its third year, was pioneering within the California State University system when first established in 2023. The system, being the largest and most diverse in the United States, serves over 461,000 students, highlighting the significance of such initiatives.

The Faculty Fellow for Disability Inclusion plays a crucial role in fostering an inclusive academic environment through faculty-to-faculty mentoring, group learning opportunities, and the provision of tailored multimedia resources. Dr. Nerren's work is instrumental in raising awareness among faculty about effective methods to accommodate students with disabilities, not only at California State University San Bernardino but also in collaborations across the state.

A distinctive aspect of this position is its facilitation of collaboration between Faculty Affairs and Student Affairs, ensuring the full participation of key university units such as Services to Students with Disabilities. This office supports over 2,000 disabled students, providing accommodations that enable their academic and personal development.

Dr. Nerren succeeds Dr. J. Chad Sweeney, the 2024-2025 fellow, who made significant contributions to disability inclusion, particularly in the expansion of neurodiversity spaces on campus. Dr. Nerren expressed gratitude for Dr. Sweeney's efforts and looks forward to building on his legacy to further advance disability inclusion at the university.