About the DPRC

Brief History of the DPRC 

The Disability Programs and Resource Center (DPRC) has a proud history rooted in advocacy, community, and a shared commitment to creating a more accessible and inclusive university.

On October 20, 1975, the center was established as the Disabled Student Service Center (DSSC), thanks to the determination and leadership of members of the Disabled Students Union, with support from the Student Affairs Office. Their advocacy helped create a dedicated space where students with disabilities could access resources, receive support, and pursue their educational goals with greater equity and opportunity.

During its first academic year (1975–1976), the center served 299 students, marking the beginning of what would become a lasting commitment to disability access at San Francisco State University.

The center was initially supported through an Innovation and Expansion grant from the State Department of Rehabilitation, which funded a full-time coordinator and a part-time clerical position.

As the university continued to grow and evolve, so did the center. In 1995, the DSSC, commonly known as DSS, became the Disability Resource Center (DRC), reflecting its expanding services and commitment to accessibility.

In 2001, the center was renamed the Disability Programs and Resource Center (DPRC), reflecting its continued growth and evolving role within the university.

Today, DPRC proudly carries forward the vision of those who helped establish it more than 50 years ago. What began as an effort to remove barriers has grown into an essential part of the university community, advancing accessibility, fostering belonging, and creating opportunities for students with disabilities to thrive.

The history of DPRC is more than a story of growth. It reflects decades of dedication, collaboration, and a shared belief that every student deserves equitable access, meaningful opportunities, and the support needed to succeed in higher education.