Digital Accessibility Working Group

The Digital Accessibility Working Group (DAWG) was established in 2017 to help support and promote accessibility knowledge, resources and adoption across campus. Contact digitalaccessibility@appstate.edu to get involved.

Digital Accessibility Liaisons

Per Policy 909: Digital Accessibility, each campus area head (dean, department chair, director, etc.) should designate a Digital Accessibility Liaison to lead digital accessibility compliance within their area. 

As the representative in their campus area, Digital Accessibility Liaisons will:

  • Participate in digital accessibility training and everboarding opportunities.
  • Familiarize themselves with Policy 909: Digital Accessibility and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA requirements, as well as available resources.
  • Share policy and WCAG requirements, resources and tools, updates and best practices.
  • Take appropriate actions to ensure the accessibility of digital content.
  • Collaborate with campus partners to respond to and resolve accessibility issues.

These designated liaisons may also serve as Communications Liaisons and/or website managers. 

For more information, please contact digitalaccessibility@appstate.edu.

Digital Accessibility Champions

This time-limited program empowers App State faculty and staff to become subject matter experts who promote universal design and peer-to-peer learning within their departments. Champions will help ensure the university's digital environment remains inclusive, equitable and compliant with federal regulations.

Structure and Responsibilities

  • Become a subject matter expert: Champions serve as a go-to resource for colleagues, providing guidance and support.
  • Promote best practices: Champion the creation of accessible content from the outset, advocating for "universal design" principles in all instructional materials.
  • Facilitate peer-to-peer learning: Organize and lead informal workshops, "lunch and learns" or office hours within their department or unit to share knowledge and practical tips.
  • Escalate complex issues: Identify and communicate complex accessibility challenges or needs to the central digital accessibility team for specialized support.
  • Share successes: Highlight and celebrate departmental achievements in digital accessibility, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.
  • Eligibility criteria: Faculty champions require approval from a Dean and Chair, and staff champions require supervisor or department head approval.

Timeline

  1. Recruitment (Oct 2025)
  2. Initial training (Nov–Dec 2025)
  3. Support program launch and continued collaboration (Jan–April 2026)

Contacts and Support

Accessibility is a shared responsibility at App State, and the following campus areas can provide guidance and assistance. 

Please reach out to the area most relevant to your need. For general digital accessibility questions, contact digitalaccessibility@appstate.edu.