Joe Chavez played soccer on the U.S. Paralympic Games in London and has been the subject of glowing magazine features. He has been places and done things, but he is a beloved figure at Southwestern College because he helped so many other people go places and do things.

Chavez was presented with the Student Access Award at the first annual SWC Access Awards hosted by the American Disability Act committee and A.B.L.E Club. Chavez, a former A.B.L.E. president, led the effort to purchase an accessible van capable of transporting students in wheelchairs. He was also on the forefront of awareness-raising projects, including the Walk-n-Rollathon, which challenged students and staff to travel around campus in wheelchairs in order to promote empathy.

“I’ve been here for a long time and I hadn’t been recognized as something big until that day,” he said. “It was emotional for me.”

Administrative assistant Monica Rodriguez, who works in the DSS department, said Chavez’s significance reaches far beyond the SWC community.

“Joe is such a great advocate and role model for all people with disabilities,” she said.

Brenda Rodriguez received the Diane Branman Faculty/Staff Access Award. Rodriguez, a clerical assistant for the school of counseling, was recognized for helping students. Before setting appointments, she listens.

“Most of the time they come when they’re in crisis,” she said. “You just have to pay attention closely, be very patient and understanding.”

Partnerships With Industry was honored with the Community Partner Access Award. PWI provides jobs for persons with disabilities and has partnered with SWC in many endeavors.

Keynote speaker Dr. Catherine Campisi inspired the audience by illustrating her experiences as an advocate for disability rights, which is an ongoing movement.

Disability Support Services Director Dr. Malia Flood hosted the event.