Craig R. Arveson, a legally blind veteran and aspiring physician, has filed a lawsuit against American University of Antigua, Inc., alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The complaint was lodged in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota on November 4, 2025. Arveson claims that over three years, AUA systematically denied him necessary accommodations for his visual disability, which impeded his medical education.
The plaintiff, Craig R. Arveson, enrolled at AUA in January 2022 with aspirations to serve rural communities as a physician. However, he contends that AUA failed to provide essential accommodations for visually impaired students across various courses such as anatomy and radiology. This alleged discrimination led to repeated academic appeals and hindered his progression to clinical rotations. Notably, Arveson highlights three “smoking gun” pieces of evidence: a misrepresentation by AUA regarding examination requirements; warnings from Minnesota State Services for the Blind about necessary accommodations; and a lack of response from AUA following requests for certification needed to advance his medical career.
Arveson’s legal complaint details how AUA’s actions—or lack thereof—constitute discrimination under federal law. He argues that despite being qualified to complete his medical education with appropriate support, AUA’s refusal to accommodate him equitably resulted in constructive dismissal from the program. The plaintiff is seeking emergency relief from the court to prevent further irreparable harm to his career and financial stability. Specifically, he requests an injunction requiring AUA to certify him for essential examinations like USMLE Step 1 and demands comprehensive disability accommodations moving forward.
In addition to injunctive relief, Arveson seeks declaratory judgment affirming that AUA’s conduct violates federal disability laws. He also requests compensatory damages for educational setbacks and emotional distress caused by these alleged discriminatory practices. Furthermore, punitive damages are sought as a deterrent against future misconduct by the defendant institution.
Representing himself pro se in this case is Craig R. Arveson from Trail, Minnesota. The case has been assigned Case No. 25-cv-4209-KMM/LIB but awaits assignment of specific judges.
