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Pregnancy & Parenting Support

Request a Pregnancy and Parenting Accommodation

Norfolk State University is committed to ensuring the faculty, staff, students, applicants, and other members of the University community are not discriminated against on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, lactation, parenting status, or related medical conditions. 

Federal and state law covers individuals with known limitations related to, affected by, or arising out of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. These protections help ensure equal access to and equal participation in the University’s educational programs, activities, and employment opportunities.  

The Office for Access and Equal Opportunity (AEO) works with faculty, staff, and students to ensure individuals receive the reasonable modifications or accommodations necessary to provide equal access to the University’s academic programs, educational activities, services, and work environment.  

SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS

Students who are pregnant, experiencing pregnancy-related conditions, or have parenting responsibilities may be entitled to reasonable modifications to ensure they can continue participating in the University's academic programs and educational activities. 

Depending on an individual's circumstances, reasonable modifications may include: 

  • Excused absences related to pregnancy, childbirth, recovery, or related medical conditions; 

  • Extensions of deadlines or opportunities to make up missed coursework; 

  • Breaks during class as needed; 

  • Access to larger desks or other classroom furniture; 

  • Temporary modifications to academic or clinical requirements; 

  • Elevator access or accessible parking, when appropriate; 

  • Other reasonable modifications necessary to ensure equal access to educational programs and activities. 

Students are encouraged to contact the Office for Access and Equal Opportunity as early as possible to discuss available support and determine appropriate reasonable modifications. Additional resources for students are available here.  

SUPPORT FOR EMPLOYEES

Pregnant employees and employees with pregnancy-related medical conditions are protected from discrimination and may be entitled to reasonable workplace accommodations. 

Examples of reasonable workplace accommodations may include: 

  • More frequent or longer restroom, food, or water breaks  

  • Seating or the ability to sit or stand as needed  

  • Temporary modifications to work schedules  

  • Temporary job restructuring or modified duties

  • Leave for pregnancy-related medical appointments or recovery, when appropriate  

  • Lactation-related accommodations  

  • Other reasonable accommodations based on an individual's limitations and job responsibilities. 

LACTATION SPACES 

Norfolk State University provides private lactation spaces to support nursing parents. Lactation spaces are available throughout campus to support individuals who need to express while on campus.  

The following areas are designated as lactation spaces:  

  • Student Services Building, Room 312  

  • Nursing and General Education Building, Room 422 

Individuals who need assistance locating a lactation space or require additional support related to lactation accommodations should contact the Office for Access and Equal Opportunity.