Enabling Success: Enhancing Accessibility in Professional Societies and Programs for Disabled Individuals

Engagement in professional societies, holding leadership roles, winning awards, and receiving honors are seen as important for career scientists to be regarded as subject matter experts in their field. In addition to publications and funding, involvement in professional societies can lead to external recognition, boost careers, increase confidence, and create a supportive community. Lack of engagement in these opportunities during graduate school and early career stages can hinder job prospects and professional growth, potentially impacting mental health and overall well-being. Efforts towards diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in STEM often overlook the disability community, particularly women and those assigned female at birth. Disabilities among employees and colleagues are more common than perceived, including visible and invisible disabilities, chronic illnesses, and long-term effects of COVID-19.