Student Support Services for Students with Disabilities (SSSD) is a federally funded TRIO college retention program serving 100 students per year. TRIO SSSD helps students with disabilities develop the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue and successfully complete a college education by helping students focus on academic and personal development.
TRIO SSSD is funded by the United States Department of Education and St. Olaf College.
Is TRIO SSSD for Me?
Disability isn’t always something you can see. In SSSD, we follow the ADA’s broad definition to ensure support is accessible to anyone facing barriers to their education. You may qualify if you have a physical or mental condition that impacts daily tasks or learning.
We support students with a wide range of experiences, including but not limited to:
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Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder.
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Neurodivergence: ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or dyslexia.
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Invisible Chronic Illness: Crohn’s disease, POTS, fibromyalgia, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders.
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Sensory & Physical: Visual or hearing impairments, mobility challenges, or chronic pain.
The Bottom Line: If your condition makes “being a student” more difficult than it is for your peers, you likely belong here. We are here to level the playing field, not just provide a label.

Quick Links
Meet the SSSD Staff
Paula Sannes (she, her, hers)
Director of TRIO Student Support Services for Students with Disabilities
Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 9:00am to 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Schedule a meeting with Paula!
View Profile →Abby Engbrecht (she, her, hers)
Academic Advisor of Student Support Services for Students with Disabilities
Office Hours: M-Th 8:30am-4:30pm, F 8:30am-12:00pm Book an Appointment
Dana Zimmerman (he, him, his)
Academic Advisor of Student Support Services for Students with Disabilities
Office Hours: Office Hours M-TH 9:00am-4:30pm Book Appointment with Dana
View Profile →Peggy A Johnson (she, her, hers)
Academic Success Center and TRIO Student Support Services for Students with Disabilities Coordinator
