University of Iowa launches digital accessibility initiative for online content

After forming a task force to make changes to its digital offerings, the University of Iowa has launched a new initiative to ensure its compliance with federal accessibility standards.

The UI announced the “Accessible Iowa: The Countdown to Digital Accessibility” initiative, a campus-wide drive to review all digital content and ensure the university is in line with changes to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

According to a news release, public entities must come under compliance with the new rule, which states websites and other digital content must have accessible options and information for people with disabilities, by April 24, 2026.

“Meeting these digital accessibility standards is not just a legal obligation, but it’s the right thing to do,” said Tiffini Stevenson Earl, Office of Civil Rights Compliance senior director and ADA coordinator, in the release. “We are committed to giving all Hawkeyes access to the content and tools they need to succeed.”

The 15-member UI Accessibility Task Force, formed in December, is working to develop resources, training programs and policies to help better digital accessibility, according to the release.

Some work has already begun, according to the release, with the UI already having 65% of all online courses accessible through Anthology Ally, an accessibility tool.

Other goals of the initiative include finding and fixing accessibility issues in the university’s “most critical digital systems,” training all UI employees to utilize accessibility tools and practices when creating daily content and achieve at least a 94 accessibility score for all UI websites with SiteImprove, a website quality assurance program. The university currently has a score of 92.

The release stated these efforts align with more than just federal law, but the UI’s own 2022-2027 strategic plan, which includes removing barriers felt by students, staff and faculty with disabilities.

“This initiative is a major undertaking,” said Maggie Jesse, executive director of the Office of Teaching, Learning, and Technology and co-chair of the task force’s teaching committee, in the release. “With our combined efforts, we can create a more welcoming digital environment. The training and tools we’re developing will help everyone at UI play a part.”