Appalachian State University is undertaking a university-wide initiative to ensure that all digital content, resources, and technology meet accessibility standards by March 2026, in compliance with Policy 909: Digital Accessibility and federal regulations, including Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
This project, which aligns with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA, ensures that all individuals — regardless of ability — can access, navigate, and interact with our digital environments.
Project goals:
- Ensure all new and existing university digital materials meet or exceed WCAG 2.1 AA standards.
- Promote equal access to websites, instructional materials, documents, media, and digital systems.
- Support units in identifying inaccessible content and developing remediation plans.
- Provide centralized guidance, training, and tools (including new evaluation platforms) to support compliance across departments.
- Foster a campus culture that values intentional design and digital opportunity for all.
A full description of the institutional requirements is available in Policy 909: Digital Accessibility.
Completed Project Goals:
- Establish digital accessibility task force and governance structure
- Review and finalize Policy 909 (Digital Accessibility) implementation scope
- Identify high-priority digital content areas
- Evaluate and begin procurement of digital accessibility monitoring platform (e.g., Silktide)
- Begin development of communications and training strategies
Why Digital Accessibility Matters
Accessibility is not just a legal requirement — it is a fundamental expression of our values as a university. Digital content must be available to all members of our community, including people with disabilities who use assistive technologies to access information and services online.
Creating accessible digital environments:
- Upholds the dignity and independence of users with disabilities.
- Promotes usability for all users, regardless of device, bandwidth, or setting.
- Ensures legal compliance and mitigates institutional risk.
- Advances Appalachian State’s mission of empowering learners and student success.
Every member of our campus community — faculty, staff, and leadership — has a role in building an inclusive digital campus. This project provides the roadmap, resources, and tools to get us there.