What is digital accessibility?
Digital accessibility means making sure our websites, tools, and course materials work for everyone. This means having captions on videos, documents that screen readers can read and platforms that are easy to navigate. Digital accessibility is essential for people with disabilities, and it makes our digital assets clearer and more flexible for everyone who interacts with WMU.
Why does accessibility matter?
Accessibility ensures everyone can fully engage with our digital and online content and resources. It’s not just a legal requirement—it’s part of our mission to provide an impactful and inclusive education. When we design with accessibility in mind, we make our digital spaces easier to use, reduce risk, and show our commitment to equity.
Who is responsible?
We all are. Anyone who creates, selects or maintains digital content at Western Michigan University plays a role. Employees, student workers, units and vendors must ensure our web content, apps, instructional materials, documents, media, and procurement processes meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
Why is compliance important?
Compliance protects civil rights, meets legal obligations, reduces risk and improves user experience. With new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) digital accessibility standards coming in 2026, this is more than a technical issue—it’s an institution-wide priority that requires planning and accountability across the University.
Meet the Digital Accessibility Steering Committee
Garald (Gary) Barton IV, Manager Marketing, Office of Information Technology
Sarah Beuker, Assistant General Counsel
Gwen Bostic, Accessibility Compliance Specialist Senior
Angela Brcka, Web Developer/Content Strategist, University Libraries
Brian Carnell, Associate Director Educational Technology
Kimberly Carroll, Associate Director and ADA Coordinator, Institutional Equity
Robyn Hill, Director, Disability Services for Students
Andrew Holmes, Chief Information Officer, Office of Information Technology
Kristin Hrynczuk, Instructional Technology Specialist Senior
Cara Junghans, Instructional Designer Senior
Ramona Lewis, Director, Office of Faculty Development
Megan Looker, Director, Digital Strategy
Gabrielle Tarrow, Accessibility Compliance Specialist
Adam Wall, Executive Director, Institutional Equity