Creating Inclusive Spaces: Baylor to Host Sensory Room for Homecoming Events
Campus Collaboration Supports Accessibility and Connection During Annual Celebration
Baylor University’s Homecoming traditions bring generations of students, alumni and families together. For guests who need a break from the festivities, a space at the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center will offer a place to pause and recharge.
Back by popular demand, a dedicated sensory room will be available during Homecoming weekend, Nov. 6-7. Through collaboration between the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing, the Department of Occupational Therapy, and the University’s Division of Marketing and Communications, the effort connects expertise in disability inclusion, occupational therapy and event communications to support guests with diverse sensory preferences.
For some attendees, a busy celebration can present barriers to participation. Access to a quieter, less-stimulating environment offers an opportunity to take breaks and return to activities at a preferred pace.
“Homecoming is about coming together and having the sensory room return each year sends a meaningful message to families that their needs are considered and that there's a place for them in the celebration, said Kaitlyn Cremer, clinical associate professor and director of doctoral capstone. “It's exciting to see accessibility becoming part of how we carry these traditions forward.”
The celebration continues through Saturday, Nov. 7. Following the Homecoming parade, attendees are invited to join the Moody School of Education’s tailgate in the Marrs McLean Science Courtyard for refreshments, a children’s activity area, photo opportunities and time to connect with the Baylor community. Tailgate admission is free, but reservations are required. Guests should register by Friday, Oct. 30, through the Moody School of Education’s Homecoming webpage.
For Baylor, the sensory room is one way to put belonging into practice. Thoughtful planning acknowledges that people participate in different ways and helps create accessible spaces for more guests to enjoy shared traditions.
“We are so grateful for cross-campus collaboration to offer the sensory room for this spirited annual event,” said Katie Windham, who serves as the director of operations at the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing. “We are looking forward to another year of creating spaces for all at Baylor Homecoming.”
ABOUT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
Baylor University is a private Christian University and a nationally ranked Research 1 institution. The University provides a vibrant campus community for 20,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating University in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 12 nationally recognized academic divisions. Learn more about Baylor University at www.baylor.edu.
ABOUT THE BAYLOR CENTER FOR DISABILITY AND FLOURISHING
The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing is a nationally recognized leader in disability research. Housed within Baylor University’s Moody School of Education, the Center connects rigorous research with real-world impact to promote the flourishing of people with disabilities, their families and communities. Through interdisciplinary scholarship, clinical services, and community outreach, the Center equips schools, congregations, workplaces, and organizations with tools and resources to foster accessibility, inclusion and mutual flourishing.
ABOUT THE BAYLOR UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
The Department of Occupational Therapy in Baylor University's Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences prepares doctoral-level occupational therapists to help individuals of all ages and abilities participate in meaningful everyday activities. Occupational therapy focuses on the relationship between people, their activities, and their environments, helping individuals overcome physical, sensory, cognitive, and other barriers to participation. Through its Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program, the Department prepares evidence-based practitioners, innovative thinkers, and servant leaders dedicated to advancing the profession and improving the health and quality of life of individuals and communities.