Bob Murphy Access Center

Providing a barrier-free university experience is at the heart of Cal State Long Beach’s Bob Murphy Access Center (BMAC). More than 12,500 students with disabilities have benefited from BMAC’s services on their path to obtaining a degree. As it celebrates 50 years of creating opportunities and strengthening equitable access on campus, BMAC remains at the national forefront of helping students with disabilities adapt and succeed in a fast-changing world.  

A pioneer in the California State University, the center introduced pilot initiatives for the 23-campus system’s Disabled Student Services Programs and for students on the autism spectrum. It was also the first in the CSU to address learning disability challenges by establishing the inaugural endowment fund. The center continues to identify new areas of opportunities as it removes barriers to success, access and inclusion during students’ college years and well after graduation. 

Opportunities for Investment

Innovative Programs

Strengthen programs for the 2,300 students who currently use the center, including the Stephen Benson Learning Disability Program, Project OCEAN for mental health support and suicide prevention, and LIFE Project for students on the autism spectrum. Additional funding would allow the center to increase support for the wheelchair-lending program, job readiness services and assistive technology. BMAC will also develop new programs and services to meet the changing needs of students with physical, mental, and learning challenges. 

Specialized Equipment and Technology

Grow the BEST (Books, Equipment, Software and Technology) Fund to provide state-of-the-art tools for success. BEST scholarships will allow students to purchase and own equipment, software, technology or books for the classroom. Other needs include assistive on-campus vehicles that provide students with a greater sense of independence. 

Mental Health Programs and Services

Strengthen existing mental health programs to address increasing demand for support in this area. Cal State Long Beach is a leader in the CSU’s mental health initiatives and BMAC was the first in the system to establish a case manager to support students with mental health challenges. By adding diverse staff and offering awareness workshops for faculty, staff and students, BMAC will foster more understanding of mental health concerns, promote allyship and enhance recognition of moments of crisis. 

Scholarships and Internships

Support undergraduate and graduate Beach students with disabilities. More than 50% of BMAC students live at or below the poverty level. By ensuring a pipeline to a robust scholarship and internship program, the center will help ensure students complete their degrees and continue their path to financial independence. 

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