Seats are available for the free luncheon Wednesday, Oct. 9, at the University of Arkansas celebrating Disability Awareness Month. The luncheon will feature Raymond Walter, a University of Arkansas student who graduated in May at the age of 18 with a triple major in mathematics, physics and economics and is now pursuing a doctorate, and Melanie Thornton, leadership development facilitator for UA CURRENTS, which stands for Center for the Utilization of Rehabilitation Resources for Education, Networking, Training and Service.

The luncheon that starts at noon Wednesday, Oct. 9, in the Verizon Ballroom is free but reservations are required and an online form is available to RSVP. Attendance is limited to 100 people.

Walter, who uses a wheelchair, has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He is now a Distinguished Doctoral Fellow pursuing doctoral degrees in math and physics. He will give a student’s perspective on campus access.

Thornton will talk about “Disability, Innovation and Design: A Matter of Perspective.” She will discuss how deeply engrained societal perspectives on disability are often reinforced by media and other messages. She challenges organizations and individuals to embrace the values of inclusion, equity and social justice as tools in the reinvention of their professional identities and work.

More information about events planned during October can be found on the website of the Center for Educational Access at the University of Arkansas. It is sponsoring events with Sources for Community Independent Living Services in Fayetteville and their community partners.