LSU Marks First-Ever White Cane Day with Statewide Celebration of Accessibility

Louisiana has one of the highest populations of deaf/blind people in the nation. To support the deaf/blind community at LSU, the university is hosting its first-ever White Cane Day on Oct. 15 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the University Recreation Center (UREC). This event corresponds with National White Cane Day and has already brought together more than 20 statewide and local organizations. 

“This event not only represents support for our students but also our commitment to advancing accessibility across campus, in our community, and throughout Louisiana,” said Tracy Blanchard, director of LSU’s Disability Services. 

Students, staff, faculty and community members are welcome to participate in the event that will include guided safety walks, interactive activities, free eye exams, food and community.

The event recognizes the white cane as a symbol of accessibility, mobility, and, most importantly, independence for those who are blind or visually impaired. At LSU, it also highlights the university’s commitment to making the campus equitable for students with all types of disabilities.

“Our goal is simple but powerful: we want students to feel safe, empowered to manage their own accommodations, and confident that they belong at LSU,” said Blanchard. 

That commitment includes the hiring of its first blind and low vision specialist, one of only two in the entire state.

“My larger goal is to create sustainable systems, such as a campus braille library and integrated orientation and mobility services, so LSU can become the most accessible university in the SEC,” said Silent McCarthy, LSU’s blind and low vision specialist. 

LSU’s Disability Services has partnered with the LSU Library to create a braille library, now open to both LSU and high school students. The initiative ensures students with visual impairments have access to essential course materials, independent study tools, and recreational reading. 

“Seeing LSU host White Cane Day means a lot. It raises awareness across campus and helps people better understand what it’s like to live with a visual impairment. It also gives everyone the chance to ask questions, learn, and gain a deeper appreciation for accessibility and independence,” said Jake Schied, a sophomore majoring in mass communication at LSU, who is blind. 
 
LSU’s efforts go beyond supporting blind and visually impaired students. New adaptive technology and sensory-based testing spaces to support students who are neurodivergent are in development. From tablets for braille to specialized software, the university is developing a model of accessibility that Disability Services hopes will inspire similar efforts across campuses nationwide. 

For more information or to register for the event, contact Tracy Blanchard at tblanch@lsu.edu. 
 

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