Physical and Digital Accessibility

Fulfilling our commitment to accessibility for all requires collaborative initiatives that address both physical access on Virginia Tech campuses and digital access to the institution’s online and electronic resources. In addition to the unit’s director, case manager, and accommodations specialists, the ADA and Accessibility team includes a campus ADA accessibility architect responsible for campus infrastructure compliance, and a Section 508 and digital accessibility officer who ensures compliance for content served via technology.

Campus ADA Accessibility Architect

The campus ADA accessibility architect is responsible for reviewing all design and building plans for compliance with the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the ADA Accessibility Guidelines regarding alterations, renovations, and capital and non-capital construction plans for the university.

The accessibility architect evaluates barrier reports and engages in numerous built environment consultations regarding facilities, buildings, pathways, ramps, parking, signage, and maps.

As a reminder, all institutional and departmental publications that describe or invite public participation or attendance in at the university, and all university-sponsored events held off campus, are required to contain a disability accommodation statement. 

Section 508 Compliance and Digital Accessibility Officer

The Section 508 compliance and digital accessibility officer serves as a bridge between OEA and the university’s Accessible Technologies group in the Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) team.

The digital accessibility officer leads the university’s efforts to evaluate and recommend accessibility policies, procedures, and best practices for electronic and information technology (EIT). The officer assists with the development of strategic roadmaps to ensure university operations align with Section 508 accessibility requirements; collaborates with university stakeholders to provide compliance guidance, training, and educational opportunities on accessible websites, design strategies, and documents; promotes appropriate support resources; and establishes accountability plans that foster accessibility compliance and inclusivity.