Contact Disability Services

About

Melissa leads efforts to ensure equitable access and meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities. Her role includes reviewing documentation, coordinating accommodations, mentoring staff, faculty, and students, and collaborating with other student support offices. She prioritizes raising awareness of disability services by building cross-departmental relationships, presenting at admissions events, and engaging with community partners.

Additionally, she focuses on enhancing support by providing an annual College Prep Workshop for incoming students with disabilities, hosting events that foster a greater sense of belonging, advising DREAM Club, identifying gaps in support, and continuously improving services to better meet the evolving needs of our diverse student population.

Credentials and Awards

• Chancellor's Award for Professional Excellence, State University of New York (2023)
• Fostering a Culture of Belonging Microcredential, Association of College and University Educators (2026)
• PEAKS Leadership Development Program Participant, CNY Community College Consortium (2023-2024)
• Safe Zone Training (2023)
• Certified Zumba Instructor (2008-present)

About

Nichol Hoffman is a Testing Specialist in the Disability Services Office. She coordinates testing accommodations, assists students in accessing academic accommodations, connects students with campus resources, and helps students fully engage in their educational experience.

In addition to her testing and accommodation responsibilities, Nichol provides executive functioning coaching to students. Through individualized coaching and check-in appointments, she helps students strengthen skills in organization, time management, planning, self-advocacy, and navigating college expectations. Her approach focuses on practical strategies, accountability, and skill development that promote confidence, independence, and long-term academic success.  

Nichol's professional interests include accessibility, strength-based development, and student executive functioning coaching. She enjoys helping students identify their strengths, overcome challenges, and create personalized plans to achieve their goals.

As an active member of the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) and the New York State Disability Services Council (NYSDSC), she remains engaged in professional learning focused on inclusion, accessibility, and student development. Nichol is committed to fostering student growth and helping every learner access opportunities for success.  

Credentials and Awards

• Coaching Strategies in Higher Education, SUNY Center for Professional Development (2026)
• Developing a Student Success Coaching Mindset, SUNY Center for Professional Development (2026)
• Supporting Neurodivergent Students: Strategies to Teach, Coach, and Empower Microcredential, Innovative Educators (2026)
• Supporting Mental Health on Campus: A Holistic Approach to Cultivating Wellness Microcredential, Innovative Educators (2026)
• Fostering a Culture of Belonging, American Council on Education (2026)

About

Lynne Sassenhausen holds a Master of Science in Education and teaching certifications in Speech-Language, Special Education, and General Education. With more than 35 years of experience working with students with diverse learning needs and backgrounds, she is passionate about helping students build the skills and confidence to succeed.

Lynne joined Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) as an adjunct instructor in January 2016 and joined Disability Services as an Educational Planning Coach in February 2021. She works individually with students, both virtually and in person, supporting them with time management, organization, study and test-taking strategies, assignment planning, Brightspace, and staying on track throughout the semester. She also helps students connect with tutoring and campus resources while navigating challenges such as procrastination, perfectionism, and academic anxiety.

Beyond individual coaching, Lynne writes a weekly newsletter featuring practical tips, videos, and resources focused on academic success, motivation, and well-being. She also serves as the faculty advisor for Supper Club, which promotes student connections and a sense of belonging, and co-leads summer orientation for students with disabilities, helping incoming students feel welcome, make connections, explore resources, and build a foundation for a successful college experience.

Known for her upbeat, positive, and approachable personality, Lynne believes every student can succeed with the right tools, encouragement, and support. Her goal is to help students build confidence, independence, and lasting skills for college and beyond.

Credentials and Awards

• NYS certified teacher in General Education, Special Education, and Speech-Language, NYSED
• Recognized Master Teacher - Recognition for teaching excellence and professional expertise
• Mentor Teacher - Recognized for mentoring, guiding, and supportive fellow educators
• Coaching Strategies in Higher Education, SUNY Center for Professional Development (2024)
• Who's Who in Education – Recognized twice for professional accomplishments in education