Darkow is in his third year as a professional
in the Miller CenterDan Darkow, coordinator in the Miller Center for Student Disability Services, was recently awarded the Ohio Association for Higher Education and Disability’s Dr. Lydia Block Rising Star Award.

The award recognizes a disability services professional who has been working in the field for fewer than eight years. The recipient must demonstrate passion for the work, capacity for future leadership, and dedication to above-and-beyond service.

“If you know Dan, you understand why he is a ‘rock star’ in disability services,” said Andrew Zeisler, director of the Miller Center. “His work is positively impacting Miami’s culture and making it a more welcoming place for people with disabilities to thrive.”

Darkow, now in his third year as a full-time profession in the Miller Center, supports day-to-day office operations, administers the Students Accessing Miami database, and maintains a large student caseload. He also advises the Student Disability Advisory Council (SDAC), which was awarded the Best New Student Organization in 2017. That same year, he was recognized as Graduate Student Advisor of the Year.

Darkow teaches part time in the Disability Studies department and regularly presents to classes and campus groups about Miller Center services and ways to design a more inclusive environment. 

The award was granted by the Ohio affiliate of the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD). AHEAD is the leading voice for professionals invested in creating welcoming higher education experiences for disabled individuals.

"This is such an honor and I am humbled further after reading the legacy of Lydia Block,” said Darkow. “I truly love the powerful work we engage in as disability services professionals."