Staff of the Office of Accessibility
Jessica DeFago, M.A.
Jessica DeFago is the Director of the Office of Accessibility. Jessica's area of specialty is working with students with learning disabilities, ADHD, and students with pervasive developmental disorders. An alumnus of The University of Akron, Jessica has a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration. Jessica is dedicated to helping students learn how to navigate and succeed in higher education through developing study skills and self-advocacy skills. Jessica also works closely with University students, faculty, staff and area high schools through department outreaches and educational opportunities.
Tess Miller, M.Ed., CRC
Tess is the Associate Director of the Office of Accessibility. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The Ohio State University and earned her Masters of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling from Kent State University. Tess is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, with strong interests in student advocacy, disability policy research and writing, and helping others. She is dedicated to both supporting students in the process of adapting to the post-secondary setting, and assisting them in working towards their higher education goals. Her specialty area is working with students with Chronic Health, Medical, and Physical disabilities.
Shawn Bixler, M.Ed.
Shawn Bixler is a Disability Specialist and Service Coordinator for the Office of Accessibility. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in both Education and Psychology, and her Master of Arts in Counseling from Malone University. She holds a state of Ohio teaching license as well as a reading endorsement and has taught in both K-12 and higher education. In addition, she worked in the field of vocational rehabilitation for the Veteran’s Administration as well as in private practice. Shawn looks forward to supporting and guiding students to success in their higher education career.
Katie Allison, M.Ed.
Katie Allison is a Disability Specialist and Service Coordinator in the Office of Accessibility. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kent State University and then went on to earn her Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling, also from Kent State University. Katie is dedicated to disability and student advocacy, disability education, and helping others. Her area of specialty is working with students with sensory disabilities, ADHD, and autism. Katie is excited to make connections with students and help them reach their goals.
Jake Darus, M.Ed.
Jake Darus is the Coordinator of Accessibility Services in the Office of Accessibility. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a Master of Education in Adult, Professional, and Higher Education from Cleveland State University. Jake is passionate about advocating for disability rights, empowering students to develop self-advocacy skills, collaborating with university stakeholders and partners, and is committed to continuous improvement in accessibility services. Jake’s responsibilities as the Coordinator of Accessibility Services include coordinating notetaking accommodations, classroom accessibility and evacuation, and maintaining a caseload of students with temporary medical conditions.
Leigh Sveda
Leigh is the Adaptive Technology and Service Coordinator for the Office of Accessibility. She graduated from The University of Akron with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She is responsible for the implementation of alternative media for students with disabilities and the administration and operation of STARS. Leigh also oversees the adaptive technology lab housed in the office.
Rachael Kosar
Rachael is the Office Manager for the Office of Accessibility. She received her degree in Organizational Supervision from The University of Akron. She is responsible for testing accommodations for students and managing student employees. Rachael really enjoys helping those around her and seeing them achieve their goals.
Student Employees
Ethan is a Business Data Analytics student at The University of Akron. He is also looking to add a double major in Sport Business. He likes to participate in hobbies such as running, fishing, and hanging out with friends. Ethan enjoys being a helping hand to those who may need it and hopes to better assist student success at The University of Akron.
Spencer is an undergraduate majoring in Psychology with a focus on Child Development. Spencer graduated from Tallmadge High School and enjoys hobbies like sports, music, video games, and biking. Spencer also volunteers over the summer for the Tallmadge Challenger Baseball League where he helps children with physical or psychological disabilities play baseball without obstacles. Spencer enjoys helping people with disabilities and plans on making it his career after graduation.
Tori is a graduate student pursuing her doctorate in audiology at NOAC. She holds a bachelor's degree in communication sciences and disorders from Cleveland State University. Tori has always been interested in helping others reach their highest potential and advocates for educational equity. Outside the office, she enjoys reading, antique shopping, and cuddling with her cat.