Join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower movement began in the United Kingdom just a few years ago and has quickly become a symbol of support and understanding in public spaces across Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland.

If you see someone wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, please offer patience and understanding—they may need more time or support. By displaying a sunflower on your office door, reception desk, or waiting area, you signal to those with hidden disabilities that they are welcome, understood, and supported.

What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?
Living with a hidden disability can make daily life more challenging, and it’s not always easy for others to recognize or comprehend those struggles. Wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a discreet way for individuals to communicate that they have a hidden disability and may need additional support or understanding.

This movement has already made a significant impact in the UK, and with your help, we can bring the same level of awareness and inclusivity to the UMBC community.

How to Participate in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Training

Join our training module on Blackboard to learn more about supporting individuals with hidden disabilities.

1. Follow the group: UMBC Sunflower Program
2. Access the training on the group's page: Once enrolled, you’ll find the training module under the "Organization" section of Blackboard.
3. Complete the requirements: Watch the two short training videos and fill out the exit form.

Upon successful completion of the training, you will receive a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower (sticker or button) to proudly display as a sign of support and inclusivity!

Let’s work together to make UMBC a more welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone!

As was the case last year, students nominate themselves for this scholarship.

The application portal opened on Tuesday, January 14^th. Applications are due Friday, February 7^th. You will need one letter of recommendation, so it is advisable to begin working on that component now.

The Women’s Center was excited to see four of the Returning Adult Learners scholarship recipients graduate at the end of the Fall 2024 semester! 

Returning Adult Learners are identified as undergraduate students over 25 seeking their first undergraduate degree. The Returning Adult Learners Program at the Women’s Center offers monthly workshops and programs focused on the academic, personal, and professional aspects of life as returning students. Newly this semester the Women’s Center also hosted community-building programming in partnership with the Division of Student Affairs Adult Learners Office including two adult learners mixers with breakfast and lunch! 

The experience of being an Adult Learner is unique. Many adult learners navigate the challenges of academics along with the responsibilities of families and full-time employment. One of the graduates shared “My journey at UMBC as an adult learner has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. Balancing the demands of school, work, and family life has pushed me to my limits, but it’s also been a transformative experience. I’ve had to overcome obstacles that tested my resilience, yet every challenge has made me stronger and more determined… Being at UMBC has been more than just an academic pursuit—it’s been a journey of personal growth and self-discovery. I’ve found a supportive community that recognizes and values the unique perspective of adult learners like me. The lessons I’ve learned extend far beyond the classroom, shaping me into a more compassionate, driven, and empowered individual…While the road hasn’t been easy, the sense of accomplishment I feel, knowing I’m paving the way as the first in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree, makes every late night, early morning, and sacrificed moment worth it. It’s a journey I’m proud to call my own, and one I hope will inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter the challenges.”

This semester’s graduates included Asjad, Matthew, Maria Eligio, and Ayanna Martin (some last names are left out for anonymity). They studied Media and Communication, Geography and Environmental Studies, Spanish Language and Linguistics, Latin American History, and Management of Aging Services. One graduate, in addition to her BA, also received a certificate in intercultural communication.

The graduates of this semester shared some of their advice for other Returning Adult Learners: 

“Don’t be judgmental, you were also a mess when you were younger… Don’t follow the majority’s example and just exist through your classes. Lead by example and be involved, participate and build relationships with your professors…”

“Don’t forget why you started. The journey can be rough, but it will make the rest of life easier…I had a lot of hardships during my time in college. Life doesn’t just stop. Make sure you have a strong support system or something else to help you drive or it will be too easy to give up.”

“My experience as an adult learner was a rollercoaster. I struggled to keep myself motivated and I had to juggle [with] many other responsibilities. Although it was tough I know this has shaped me into a better person… You only fail if you don’t try and you have to believe in yourself.”

“To current returning adult learners, my advice is this: embrace the journey with courage, patience, and faith in your abilities. Returning to school as an adult is not easy—you’ll face challenges that test your resilience and time management skills. But remember, your unique life experiences are your greatest strengths…Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Build a network of professors, advisors, and peers who support your goals. Take advantage of every resource your school offers, whether it’s tutoring, counseling, or career services… Be kind to yourself. Juggling school, work, and family is tough, but every step forward is a victory. Celebrate those small wins and remind yourself of the bigger picture: you’re doing this to build a better future for yourself and those you love…Above all, don’t give up. Your presence in the classroom proves that it’s never too late to dream and achieve. Stay focused, trust the process, and know that your hard work will pay off in ways you can’t yet imagine. You’ve got this!” 

The Women’s Center is very proud of the graduates as they embark on journeys toward graduate school and employment. We also look forward to deepening our relationships with the Returning Adult Learners still seeking their degrees as we move into the Spring semester!

For more information about the RAL Scholars program reach out to the Womens Center at womenscenter@umbc.edu. 

RAL Scholars meeting Dr. Freeland, Interim Dean and Vice Provost for Undergraduate Academic Affairs during the Fall Orientation