Navigating Digital Accessibility: A Higher Ed Roadmap to ADA Compliance-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session focused on Northeastern State University’s approach to digital accessibility and preparing for ADA compliance by 2027. Dr. Dan Mabry emphasized that accessibility is not just an IT issue, but an institution-wide change effort involving policies, workflows, purchasing, communication, and culture. The university formed a cross-functional committee with cabinet-level support, created a timeline, and built accountability through weekly reporting and documentation.  <br /><br />Key efforts included mandatory accessibility training for employees, optional role-specific modules, an internal resource page, and ongoing awareness through “ADA tips of the week.” The team also reviewed digital assets across the university’s full ecosystem: websites, PDFs, email, social media, learning management systems, mobile apps, vendor platforms, and archived content.  <br /><br />Mabry stressed the importance of manual audits, vendor accountability, and reducing future remediation by creating accessible content from the start. He noted common challenges such as limited staff, budget constraints, turnover, and changing priorities. His main advice was to inventory digital assets, delete unnecessary legacy content, train creators, and document everything. Ultimately, accessibility should be pursued not only for compliance, but as part of the university’s mission of inclusion.

Keywords

digital accessibility

ADA compliance

higher education

institution-wide change

accessibility training

cross-functional committee

manual audits

vendor accountability

inclusive mission