East Tennessee State University celebrated the grand opening of the Emma Kate Disability Resource Center, a dedicated space designed to proactively support students with disabilities and help them thrive throughout their college experience.
Located on the third floor of the D.P. Culp Student Center, the center provides an accessible environment where students with disabilities can study, work and build community. The space includes dedicated technology and a layout designed with accessibility in mind, allowing students to access resources and support more efficiently.
The center was made possible through the generous support of Jim and Denise Montag, in honor of their daughter Emma Kate, a current ETSU student with a disability and a deep passion for her community.
"At the heart of our family's values is the belief that higher education should be a welcoming doorway for everyone," said Jim and Denise Montag. "Our sponsorship of the Emma Kate Disability Resource Center represents our commitment to opening that door wider for students with intellectual, developmental, physical and cognitive disabilities."
The resource center supports ETSU Disability Services' efforts to expand access to adaptive technology, resources and support systems for students with diverse needs. The center represents an investment in proactive accessibility, creating an environment where students' needs are considered from the beginning rather than requiring them to search for every resource or adjustment.
Initiatives such as the Emma Kate Disability Resource Center align with ETSU's commitment to student success, inclusion and creating an environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their goals. By recognizing and proactively addressing barriers, students move forward with greater confidence and independence.
"We want every student or staff member who walks onto the ETSU campus to know they are fully seen, deeply valued and structurally supported," the Montag family said. "It is our privilege to help fund a safe, innovative space where students can find the accommodations, advocacy and community connection they need to turn their academic dreams into reality."
The Emma Kate Disability Resource Center is available to all ETSU students for studying, working, meetings and casual connection. The center provides a dedicated space where students can access technology and resources while connecting with a community that recognizes and supports their experiences.
