Mobility Matters campaign kicks off today

ABERDEEN, S.D. (Press Release) – A Northern State University student is launching a campaign to raise awareness – and funding – toward accessibility on campus.

Tyler Goldade, a junior art student from Aberdeen, has created “Mobility Matters.” The campaign will kick off today, April 15 – “Mobility Monday.” Goldade and his classmates from Sara Christensen Blair’s graphic design class plan to hang post-it notes on campus wherever they see a potential barrier for someone in a wheelchair. They will post pictures on Instagram (@mobility.disability) using the hashtag #MobilityMatters.

Goldade, who uses a wheelchair for mobility, also started a Mobility Awareness Blog to discuss accessibility issues.

“I want people that aren’t disabled to realize that they too could someday need the accessibility tools that are not available today and won’t be available if nothing gets done to have them implemented,” Goldade wrote. “If you think about it, I wouldn’t be disabled if it wasn’t for poor accessibility.”

The campaign also includes a GoFundMe page to raise money to purchase two automatic door openers that will assure easy access for Goldade and any other students who need accessibility to the art department.

NSU Director of Disability Services Doris Stusiak said Northern works hard to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and feedback is always appreciated on how the university can continue to enhance accessibility beyond ADA minimums.

Stusiak said she’s proud to work with Tyler, along with all of her students.

“This campaign is a wonderful example of who this young man is and his talent and passion,” she said.