Beyond the Checkbox: Accessible Design for Humans in an AI World

Time: April 10, 9:45 am – 10:45 am Speakers: Craig Boassaly Creating truly accessible digital experiences requires more than just passing a validation check; it demands a strategic shift in how we plan, design, and maintain content. This session explores the complete lifecycle of accessible content from web and documents to video, demonstrating why accessibility […]

Building a Culture of Accessibility Leadership

Time: April 10, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Speakers: Kathryn Jordan and Michael Harshbarger Most organizations treat accessibility as a checklist—meeting WCAG requirements for color contrast, alt text, and navigation. But this approach often overlooks a large, underserved group: people with invisible disabilities such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. Neurodivergent individuals make up 15–20% of […]

Accessibility Audits That Actually Drive Change

Time: April 9, 2:45 pm – 3:45 pm Speakers: Kathryn Jordan and Michael Harshbarger Many organizations conduct accessibility audits only to be left asking, “Now what?” Reports often highlight dozens of issues but fail to translate into meaningful improvements. This session reframes audits as a catalyst for organizational change rather than just technical troubleshooting. Aimed […]

Building a Culture of Accessibility Leadership

Time: April 10, 9:45 am – 10:45 am Speakers: Michael Harshbarger Accessibility doesn’t thrive on checklists alone — it thrives when leaders create the conditions for inclusion. This session explores how accessibility leadership can transform organizations beyond compliance. Attendees will learn how to set strategy, influence culture, and support teams in driving sustainable accessibility practices. […]

AI in Accessibility: Where Tools End and Humans Lead

Time: April 9, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Speakers: Michael Harshbarger Artificial intelligence is reshaping accessibility work, from automated testing to faster content checks. But AI alone can’t guarantee inclusion. This session explores the balance between automation and human leadership. Attendees will see how AI can accelerate testing and reporting, where it introduces risk, and […]

Open Source Web Accessibility Tools from the University of Illinois

Time: April 9, 9:45 am – 10:45 am Speakers: Jon Gunderson This session will review the open-source tools developed by the University of Illinois to support web accessibility evaluation, including AInspector for WCAG Evaluation and Headings, Landmarks and Links browser extensions, and the SkipTo.js utility to improve the experience of people with disabilities using Illinois […]

Supporting Neurodiversity in Digital Products

Time: April 10, 2:45 pm – 3:45 pm Speakers: Courtney Fleeger Neurodiversity brings unique perspectives and needs to digital experiences. This session explores how we can support these users through inclusive design strategies grounded in research. Learn how to apply cognitive-friendly design patterns and create interfaces that reduce friction and foster engagement. Whether you’re new […]

Small Details, Big Impact: Micro-interactions, Accessibility, and When to Call a Specialist

Time: April 10, 9:45 am – 10:45 am Speakers: Meenal Dobariya Microinteractions – the small details like button feedback, form error messages, hover states, or loading animations – shape how people experience a digital product. When designed well, they reduce frustration and increase clarity. But when overlooked, they can create serious accessibility barriers for students, […]

Intersection of Design & Accessibility

Time: April 10, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Speakers: Matthew Luken Design plays a critical role in digital accessibility. This team can help reduce 67% percent of defects & violations. Join us to learn best practices that all designers – UX, UI, Content, UX Researchers, and Graphic Designers – should be implementing to ensure their […]

The Future of Accessibility Looks Bright

Time: April 9, 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm Speakers: Matthew Luken What does the future hold for accessibility? Between AI, changing standards, and stronger regulations around the world, the accessibility industry is rapidly changing. Join us to learn what’s on the horizon.

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