About the Center on Disability Studies: History
The CDS was established in 1988 as the Hawai‘i University Affiliated Program, and is a charter member of a National Network of University Centers, the Association of University Centers on Disability (AUCD). This national network of university centers focuses on education, research, and service activities which impact upon the quality of life of persons with disabilities in each state. Beginning in 1988 with core funding of only $250,000 and a staff of four, the CDS has leveraged resources to its current level of funding at over eight million dollars and more than 125 faculty and staff. The CDS now receives funding based on an approved Strategic Plan for a five-year cycle from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
