What accommodations could be made for a staff member whose work requires the use of a computer for up to six hours a day but can no longer type on a keyboard because of repetitive strain injury? How should an adviser respond when approached by the worried roommates of a student who suffers from depression? When is disruptive behavior in the workplace or the classroom grounds for discipline and when is it the result of a disability?

Approximately 75 people from across the University grappled with these and other questions at a May 8 seminar related to two specific disabilities: repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and emotional disabilities. Panels on each type of disability presented perspectives from a medical, a student, and a human resources point of view.

"I appreciated the program's balance of current legal information, clinical issues, and policy concerns that administrators face in assisting students and employees," said Christopher Queen, dean of students for Continuing Education, who attended the program.

The seminar was sponsored by the Disability Services Advisory Group, a University-wide group which includes representatives of various aspects of disability services, including student services, human resources, and physical plant. Presenters included: Robert Doyle, director of instructional media for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS); Eileen Finan, University Attorney; Joseph Glenmullen, psychologist in the University Health Services; Susan Lee, associate librarian of Harvard College for Administrative Services; Harry Lewis, dean of Harvard College; Louise Russell, director of the FAS Student Disability Resource Center; Marie Trottier, University coordinator of Programs for Persons with Disabilities; Sarah Wald, assistant provost for policy and planning; and Mark Weinstein, chief of surgery in the University Health Services.

"As a human resources professional, I appreciated the all-encompassing perspective," said Eloise McGaw, assistant dean of personnel for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences." I liked being able to hear what is being done for students as well as staff. It was a reminder that we are all part of one community and we are a phenomenal resource to one another."

Copies of materials distributed at the seminar can be obtained by calling 495-1859, or e-mail: Marie_Trottier@harvard.edu.