National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is an annual awareness effort that is held each October. The annual commemoration raises awareness about disability employment issues, and celebrates the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. 

The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. 

At SCU, we celebrate Disability Awareness Month to honor the lived experiences and history of the disabled community in order to broaden the focus beyond employment.