VCC partners with Adler University to enhance accessibility and student success
Clayton Munro, Associate Vice President of Student Services at VCC speaking at the launch of VCC and Adler University's joint initiative
Vancouver Community College (VCC) has partnered with Adler University to provide psychoeducational assessments for students experiencing learning challenges. This initiative will enable students to access tailored support to overcome educational barriers, ultimately promoting greater success in their academic programs.
The partnership allows Adler Community Health Services to offer assessments conducted by student-clinicians from Adler University, who will work closely with VCC’s Student Services and Accessibility Services teams. These assessments help identify learning barriers and strengths, enabling VCC to provide appropriate accommodations such as additional exam time and other support services.
“We are proud to collaborate with Adler University to offer our students access to such a crucial assessment,” said Ajay Patel, VCC President and CEO. “It’s wonderful that both of our student communities can benefit from this collaboration. Our students receive the assessments they need to support their success, while Adler’s graduate students gain real-world, hands-on experience — a core value at VCC, where we believe in ‘Real learning for real change.’”
This initiative is part of VCC's broader Accessibility Plan, launched in 2023, which focuses on reducing barriers for people with disabilities. By creating equitable learning environments and fostering resilience, VCC continues to prioritize inclusivity and support for all students.
Clayton Munro, Associate Vice President of Student Services at VCC, added, “This shared approach to student success reflects our institutions’ shared commitment to building strong communities and ensuring accessible opportunities for all. Through these assessments, we are better able to understand each student’s unique challenges and provide accommodations that will make a lasting difference in their educational experience.”
The assessments are being made available thanks to the generosity of donors through the VCC Foundation. “Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we are able to cover the costs of these assessments which would otherwise be out of reach for many students,” said Moira Gookstetter, Executive Director of the VCC Foundation. “This unique project demonstrates how donor support can make a direct and meaningful impact on student success.”
This partnership underscores VCC’s dedication to providing accessible and supportive education, ensuring all students have the resources they need to thrive.
Read the media announcement.
View the Flickr album of the event signing.