UI Launches Digital Accessibility Task Force
University of Iowa Launches Accessibility Task Force to Ensure Digital Inclusion
Iowa City, IA – Teh University of Iowa is taking proactive steps to ensure digital accessibility for all members of its community. In response to a new U.S. Department of Justice rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the university has established an Accessibility Task Force. This dedicated team will work to ensure all web content and mobile apps meet accessibility standards by the April 24, 2026 deadline.
“Our goal is to ensure that all digital content and systems are accessible to everyone,” says Steve Fleagle, associate vice president and chief facts officer of Information Technology Services (ITS). “This is not just about compliance; it’s about creating a path forward where everyone can access the information and services they need.”
the task force, co-chaired by Maggie Jesse, executive director of the Office of Teaching, Learning, and Technology, and tiffini Stevenson Earl, senior director of the Office of Civil Rights Compliance and ADA coordinator, will play a crucial role in this initiative.
A Collaborative Approach to Accessibility
The task force will prioritize digital systems and content based on usage, accessibility needs, and available resources. They will implement a remediation process following Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 level AA standards, ensuring a consistent and inclusive digital experience for all.
“Ensuring compliance with Title II is crucial and required for our university,” says Liz Tovar, executive officer and associate vice president of the Division of Access, Possibility, and Diversity (DAOD). “It demonstrates our commitment to accessibility for all members of our community and builds on our strategic goal of providing a welcoming and respectful environment for all Hawkeyes.”
The task force’s work will impact all aspects of digital life at the university,from classroom coursework and research to healthcare and athletics. By collaborating with existing groups and departments, the task force aims to ensure consistency, efficiency, and avoid duplication of efforts.
Empowering the University Community
While the task force spearheads this initiative, the university encourages faculty and staff to familiarize themselves with the new regulations and understand their role in creating an accessible digital environment.
Here are some steps you can take:
Educate Yourself: Learn about the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines Version 2.1, Level AA, and understand the requirements for digital accessibility.
Assess Your Content: Review your digital content and systems to identify any areas that may need improvement to meet the new standards. Seek Training: Participate in training sessions and workshops on digital accessibility offered by ITS.
Collaborate: Work with your colleagues and the Accessibility Task Force to share best practices and resources.
* Provide Feedback: Use the feedback mechanisms provided by the task force to report any accessibility issues and suggest improvements.
By working together, the University of iowa community can create a truly inclusive digital environment where everyone has equal access to information and opportunities.
For questions or concerns, please contact maggie jesse at maggie-jesse@uiowa.edu or Tiffini Stevenson Earl at tiffini-stevenson-earl@uiowa.edu.
UIowa Prioritizes Digital Inclusion with New Accessibility Task Force
Iowa City, IA – The University of Iowa is taking a proactive stance on digital inclusion by creating a dedicated Accessibility Task Force. This move comes in response to a new U.S.Department of Justice rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, requiring all web content and mobile apps to meet accessibility standards by April 24, 2026.
Leading the charge are co-chairs Maggie jesse, executive director of the Office of Teaching, Learning, and technology, and Tiffini Stevenson Earl, senior director of the Office of Civil rights compliance and ADA coordinator.The task force will prioritize systems and content based on usage, accessibility needs, and available resources, ensuring a consistent and inclusive digital experiance for everyone.
“Our goal is to ensure that all digital content and systems are accessible to everyone,” states Steve Fleagle, associate vice president and chief facts officer of Information Technology Services.
“This is not just about compliance; it’s about creating a path forward where everyone can access the information and services they need.”
Liz Tovar, executive officer and associate vice president of the Division of Access, Possibility, and Diversity (DAOD), emphasizes the university’s commitment: “Ensuring compliance with Title II is crucial and required for our university. It demonstrates our commitment to accessibility for all members of our community and builds on our strategic goal of providing a welcoming and respectful environment for all Hawkeyes.”
The task force will impact all aspects of digital life at the university, from classrooms and research to healthcare and athletics.By collaborating with existing groups and departments, they aim to ensure consistency, efficiency, and avoid duplication of efforts.
The University encourages faculty and staff to participate in creating an accessible digital environment. Resources and training sessions will be available through ITS, empowering the entire community to contribute to a truly inclusive digital experience.