By: Alex Martinez, Web Developer and Joshua Kaufman, ADA Coordinator
In May, DU held its 3rd annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD). The GAAD planning committee wants to thank the 130+ attendees, whether in-person or remote, who participated and committed to improving access for the disabled community. GAAD’s mission is to promote awareness and understanding of digital accessibility challenges faced by the disabled community. This year’s event brought together students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni and community members to learn about the experience of folks who need technology to access information and opportunity in today’s world.
Key takeaways from the event highlighted the need for faculty to make materials accessible for all students, regardless of accommodation needs, as well as a culture change around accessible web development and production. Provost Clark also announced that next fall’s Provost Conference will center on Universal Design for Learning. Watch for more about lead up events and information about the Provost’s conference at the start of the 2024 – 2025 academic year!
The GAAD Cross Campus Partners included staff from Community + Values, Wellness, Division of Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Student Disability Services, Equal Opportunities and Title IX, Human Resources and Inclusive Community, Information Technology, the Office of Teaching and Learning, and a current student.
Thank you to the GAAD Committee Members:
Belinda Becker-Jacob, Student Representative
Bill Casson, Information Technology
Josiah Dunn, Information Technology
Ellen Hogan, Office of Teaching & Learning
Clara Kapustka, Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Josh Kaufman, ADA Coordinator, Equal Opportunity & Title IX
Alex Martinez, Information Technology
Caroline Newcomb, Student Disability Services
Paula von Kretschmann, Human Resources and Inclusive Community
Cassy Zapotocky, Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence