Elevating Accessibility at the University of Arizona

At the University of Arizona, accessibility and usability are not just goals—they are imperatives. Last week, as we celebrated World Usability Day 2024, we reaffirmed our commitment to transforming the learning, work, and cultural experiences of our diverse community. Our mission is to remove barriers and ensure every individual—regardless of ability, background, or need—has equal access to academic and career success.

As educators, technologists, and administrators, we are responsible for designing systems that empower and support every student. Accessibility and usability form the foundation of an inclusive environment and are essential to fulfilling our mission. Usability, in particular, demands that our systems, tools, and platforms are intuitive, easy to navigate, and effective for all users, regardless of their technology proficiency or learning style.

When accessibility and usability intersect, we create educational environments where every learner can thrive, succeed, and feel valued. The stakes are high, and the impact is transformative.

In this effort, the Disability Resource Center (DRC) is partnering across campus to drive awareness and address accessibility challenges. Key initiatives include:

• Legislative Compliance: With critical deadlines to ensure all university websites and mobile applications meet accessibility standards by April 2026, the UA Digital team and UITS resources are evaluating our top 25 sites to identify and address accessibility gaps. These insights will enhance our Quick Start framework and help align web development practices campus-wide.
• Mobile Accessibility: Mobile applications are vital for delivering an engaging student experience. In partnership with UITS, the DRC is investing in accessible design for platforms like Arizona Mobile, ensuring that all web and mobile applications are inclusive.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with UA Marketing, branding, academic departments, and AI technology experts are elevating our commitment to accessibility in communication. Together, we’re exploring how advanced tools can better support the needs of individuals with disabilities.

We’ll continue to share our progress through office hours, training opportunities, and more. It’s crucial that every content creator understands their role in crafting inclusive environments for everyone who visits, works, or learns on our campus.

At the University of Arizona, we’re proud to lead a movement not just for equal access but for equitable opportunity for all. The future of education is accessible, usable, and inclusive, and it starts with us. We have the power to make every learner’s journey more meaningful, impactful, and successful.