# General Sessions for Thursday, March 12, 2026

# 8:00 AM

## Featured Presentation: What's New in Google Accessibility

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (8:00 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Emerging Technologies, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
- Audience: Disability Specific, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: Featured Presentation: What's New in Google Accessibility

Join us to hear announcements from several Google teams about products, tools, and features. We've made a lot of progress in the last year and we're excited to share a few highlights with you all!

Presenters: James Stout, Google
Jing He, Google
NM Dayton, Google
Anna Chou, Google
Perrin Anto, Google

# 9:20 AM

## Breaking Down the Barriers of Workplace Inaccessibility

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Employment and Workplace, and Blind/Low Vision
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Insurance, Legal, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, Manufacturing, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 1-2
- Title: Breaking Down the Barriers of Workplace Inaccessibility

This session reframes workplace accessibility beyond compliance. Be My Eyes Workplace, built with blind users, shows how true access includes culture, collaboration, and autonomy, not just forms and workflows.

Presenters: Danielle Montour, Be My Eyes
Andy Bailey, Be My Eyes

## Can AI Expand Access? Promise and Risks in Audio Description

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Research
- Audience: Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: Can AI Expand Access? Promise and Risks in Audio Description

AI-generated AD is not yet ready to replace human describers. But used carefully, it has potential to expand access for user-generated, factual, and legacy content, and to support professional workflows. This session explores research findings and next steps to balance innovation with quality.

Presenters: Jonny Marshall, RNIB
Aidan Bryant, YouTube
Sonali Rai, RNIB
Sabine Braun, University of Surrey

## Can Today's Smart Glasses Do What Many Blind People Really Need?

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Emerging Technologies, Blind/Low Vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Disability Specific, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand GH
- Title: Can Today's Smart Glasses Do What Many Blind People Really Need?

A comparison using three smart glasses, Agiga EchoVision, Ally Solos from Envision, and the Meta Ray-Bans and how each performs selected everyday visual tasks. Tasks were selected based on their frequency of occurrence. They are ones that current assistive technology cannot do well.

Presenter: Judith Dixon

## Closing Gaps & Improving Access to Digital Materials for Students

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: K-12 Education
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 1
- Title: Closing Gaps & Improving Access to Digital Materials for Students

Discover NCADEMI's new Quality Indicators for Accessible Digital Educational Materials & Instruction. Learn how they help agencies build and evaluate systems for accessible materials. Explore key components, action steps, and resources to strengthen accessibility culture and drive improvement.

Presenters: Christopher Phillips, National Center on Accessible Digital Educational Materials & Instruction
Jena Fahlbush, National Center on Accessible Digital Educational Materials & Instruction

## Deaf/Hard of Hearing Accessibility Options on iOS and Android

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Captions and Transcription, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Transportation, Legal, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, Marketing, Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, Disability Specific, K-12 Education, Sales, Insurance, Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Information & Communications Technology, and Military
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 9
- Title: Deaf/Hard of Hearing Accessibility Options on iOS and Android

Explore mobile tools that enhance access for DHH users, including iOS/Android features and apps for captions, alerts, and device integration to support communication and independence.

Presenter: Tina Gonzales Childress, InnoCaption

## From Idea to Impact: Launching Inclusive Innovation Labs

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Design, Emerging Technologies, and Research
- Audience: Disability Specific, Entertainment & Recreation, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 3-4
- Title: From Idea to Impact: Launching Inclusive Innovation Labs

Learn how to build inclusive innovation labs centered on users with disabilities. This session covers accessible space design, co-creation workshops, and lessons from Microsoft's Inclusive Tech Lab - offering actionable insights for scaling inclusion across industries.

Presenter: Jennifer Sharp, Microsoft

## Getting Real about Accessibility Testing

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Development, and Evaluation and Remediation
- Audience: Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 8
- Title: Getting Real about Accessibility Testing

Accessibility testing is far from seamless. Join this candid conversation about the potential failures, hidden pitfalls, and real-world lessons to reveal what truly works (and doesn't) in building effective accessibility testing programs.

Presenter: Brianna Burrows, T-Mobile

## Identifying Stains in Clothing for Individuals Who Are Blind

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Independent Living, and Research
- Audience: Disability Specific, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 3 - Journal Track
- Title: Identifying Stains in Clothing for Individuals Who Are Blind

This session introduces a research prototype of a mobile application that leverages artificial intelligence to detect stains on clothing and deliver real-time audio and haptic feedback to assist blind and visually impaired people with wardrobe management. We will explore the app's design, its user-c

Presenters: Guarionex Salivia, Gustavus Adolphus College
Flint Million, Minnesota State University, Mankato

## Making a Case for Vision: Accessible Marketing for Assistive Tech

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Web
- Audience: Disability Specific, Sales, Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, Research & Development, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand AB
- Title: Making a Case for Vision: Accessible Marketing for Assistive Tech

What happens when digital accessibility meets physical assistive tech? Magic, music, and marketing that include everyone. This session blends story with strategy, showing how to amplify impact, spark inclusion, and turn accessibility into a powerful driver of marketing success.

Presenter: Simon Miner, Case for Vision

## Neuroinclusive Creation: Designing for the Full Spectrum of Minds

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, Government, Media & Publishing, Employment & Human Resources, Entertainment & Recreation, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 1 - Level Access
- Title: Neuroinclusive Creation: Designing for the Full Spectrum of Minds

Discover practical strategies for designing branding and digital experiences that embrace neurodiversity. Learn how inclusive choices in content, color, typography, and motion can reduce barriers and create more welcoming, usable experiences.

Presenter: Dana Randall, Level Access

## People with Disabilities Are a Market Too

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Emerging Technologies
- Audience: Disability Specific, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 7 - AudioEye
- Title: People with Disabilities Are a Market Too

Big tech researches cultural norms when entering new regions, but disability communities deserve equal consideration. As major companies become access tech providers, what norms should they understand, and how well do current practices align with community expectations?

Presenter: Jonathan Mosen, National Federation of the Blind

## Running Your Own Podcast and YouTube Channel When You're Blind

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Video and Live Streaming, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Disability Specific, Media & Publishing, and Entertainment & Recreation
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand JK
- Title: Running Your Own Podcast and YouTube Channel When You're Blind

After years of making videos, podcasts, and hosting online events, I'm excited to share what I've learned with other blind and low vision creators. This talk offers practical, friendly tips for making visual content that connects with everyone.

Presenter: Lucy Greco, accessaces.com

## The Digital Accessibility Problem Is Not What You Think It Is

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Leadership and Strategy, and Law/Compliance and Policy
- Audience: Government, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 2
- Title: The Digital Accessibility Problem Is Not What You Think It Is

Digital accessibility is a people problem, not a technical one. Stop relying on automated tools and legal policies. Instead, build a culture where designers, engineers, and testers are motivated by a sense of purpose and pride to create high-quality, inclusive products.

Presenter: Stewart Hay, Intopia

## The Future in Focus: AI-Enabled Devices That Empower

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Emerging Technologies, Blind/Low Vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Disability Specific, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 2 - Vispero
- Title: The Future in Focus: AI-Enabled Devices That Empower

Learn how integrating AI-powered computer vision into an accessibility device transforms a video magnifier into an intelligent assistant. See how document summarization, receipt reading, and image-based Q&A expand independence and real-world usability for blind and low-vision users.

Presenters: Omar Wahby, Vispero
Patrick Murphy, Vispero

## Understanding Accessibility of Ads Toward Inclusive Experiences

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (9:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Web, and Research
- Audience: Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, Research & Development, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand CD
- Title: Understanding Accessibility of Ads Toward Inclusive Experiences

In this session, we will share research insights on how blind and low-vision users experience inaccessible ads, as well as their preferences for navigating such content. We will also offer practical takeaways for designers and developers to make online advertising more accessible and inclusive.

Presenters: Murtaza Tamjeed, Yahoo!
Nicole Woodson, Yahoo

# 10:20 AM

## AI and AT: Balancing Security with Productivity

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Employment and Workplace, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Government, Finance & Banking, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 2 - Vispero
- Title: AI and AT: Balancing Security with Productivity

Join this interactive session where companies share experiences on navigating AI adoption in assistive technology. Explore how to balance security, privacy, and productivity while fostering collaboration on best practices for people who are blind.

Presenter: Ryan Jones, Vispero

## Brick By Brick: What You Can Learn through Lego

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Leisure and Travel, Blind/Low Vision, and Education
- Audience: Disability Specific, K-12 Education, and Entertainment & Recreation
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Elite 1-2
- Title: Brick By Brick: What You Can Learn through Lego

Learn how to use Lego bricks to be a better rock climber, notate music, and make your favorite hobbies and sports more accessible to blind and deafblind participants. We'll brainstorm accessible solutions together and build them with LEGO bricks.

Presenter: Matthew Shifrin, Bricks For The Blind

## Copilot for Maps: Privacy-First Conversational Design

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Product Demonstration, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Law/Compliance and Policy
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, Disability Specific, Transportation, Legal, Entertainment & Recreation, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand GH
- Title: Copilot for Maps: Privacy-First Conversational Design

Blind travelers told us: &quot;Describe this intersection&quot; and &quot;What's next door?&quot; We built those insights into Copilot for Maps. See it live and learn conversational design patterns that reduce disclosure fatigue and protect privacy.

Presenter: Jessie Lorenz, Microsoft

## Crafting Accessible 3D Nursing Simulations in Unity WebGL

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Gaming and Interactive Entertainment
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, Entertainment & Recreation, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 1
- Title: Crafting Accessible 3D Nursing Simulations in Unity WebGL

Learn how Shadow Health from Elsevier is revamping its Unity WebGL 3D nursing simulations with keyboard navigation, a built-in screen reader, and immersive audio descriptions. Gain actionable insights on inclusive design, collaborative development, and enhancing student's educational experience.

Presenters: Eric Crozier, Elsevier
Nicholas Seow, Elsevier

## Glow and Tell: Designing Courses That Shine for Everyone

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Education
- Audience: Higher Education, and K-12 Education
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 3-4
- Title: Glow and Tell: Designing Courses That Shine for Everyone

Does it matter what your online course looks like? Can aesthetics and accessibility can live hand in hand in course design? In this session we'll talk about developing courses that give equal footing to flow and visual appeal while aiming to ensure that all learners' varying needs are met.

Presenter: Mike Mara, Ohio State University

## How Challenge Led to Change: My Path to Working in Accessibility

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Employment and Workplace, and Development
- Audience: Disability Specific, Media & Publishing, Employment & Human Resources, and Entertainment & Recreation
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 8
- Title: How Challenge Led to Change: My Path to Working in Accessibility

Sometimes opportunity emerges from an unexpected place. Please join me as I share the story of how a challenging event changed my life, and in the process, presented exciting new personal and professional opportunities, including a rewarding career in accessibility.

Presenter: Doug Clark, The Walt Disney Company

## iGuide: A Multimodal App for Visually Impaired Museum Visitors

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Augmentative and Alternative Communications (AAC)
- Audience: Disability Specific, Entertainment & Recreation, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 3 - Journal Track
- Title: iGuide: A Multimodal App for Visually Impaired Museum Visitors

The use of technology in public spaces such as museums for visually impaired individuals is usually done by enhancing the sensory experience for low vision visitors, primarily with regard to tactility and auditory sensation. However, these experiences do not well consider the interactive aspect. Hen

Presenters: Zhigang Zhu, The City College of The City University of New York
Brandon Vasquez, The City College at The City University of New York

## Improving Media Accessibility at Global Scale

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Audience: Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 4 - Amazon
- Title: Improving Media Accessibility at Global Scale

We're advancing global content accessibility at Prime Video through innovative solutions for Audio Description, Photo-sensitive Epilepsy scanning, and Dialogue Boost. We're making audio descriptions as universal as captions across languages, using quality frameworks, automation, and standardization.

Presenters: Chris Nooney, Amazon
Abishua Abraham, Amazon
Lakshmi Ziskin, Amazon - Prime Video

## Making Sense of VPATs and ACRs: What You Need to Know

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Evaluation and Remediation, and Law/Compliance and Policy
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, Legal, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 1 - Level Access
- Title: Making Sense of VPATs and ACRs: What You Need to Know

Learn how to confidently interpret and apply VPATs and ACRs in accessibility work. This session offers practical insights and real-world strategies to improve procurement and compliance outcomes.

Presenter: Nat Tarnoff, Level Access

## Making Unilever's Packaging Accessible for Everyone

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Emerging Technologies, and Blind/Low Vision
- Audience: Disability Specific, Manufacturing, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand AB
- Title: Making Unilever's Packaging Accessible for Everyone

Discover how Unilever is scaling Accessible QR codes across 6Bn packs to make packaging inclusive for all. Learn real-world impact, brand and consumer benefits, and future innovations, offering actionable insights for beginners to experts across design, compliance, marketing, and accessibility.

Presenter: Marc Powell, Unilever

## Scaffold Learning with Generative AI: How to Train Your AI Dragon

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Cognitive and Learning Disabilities
- Audience: Disability Specific, K-12 Education, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand JK
- Title: Scaffold Learning with Generative AI: How to Train Your AI Dragon

Learn about 2 pilot projects that developed the WISER (Ways to Inquire, Solve, Express, and Reflect) prototype. As children engage in learning experiences, the AI-supported generative prompting in WISER scaffolds learning so children with disabilities can demonstrate and deepen their understanding.

Presenter: Matt Kaplowitz, Bridge Multimedia

## Shifting Left: Making Accessibility Core to Your Design Process

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Development
- Audience: Higher Education, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: Shifting Left: Making Accessibility Core to Your Design Process

STOP relying on costly QA to fix your accessibility problems. Learn the "Shift Left" strategy to move checks into design and conception, fostering an inclusive culture and reducing technical debt. You'll master the A11y Design Review, address common pitfalls, and build a more sustainable product.

Presenters: Jayashree Prabunathan, Google LLC
Shirisha Gubba, Google LLC

## Storytelling through Captioning

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Video and Live Streaming, Captions and Transcription, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Audience: Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 9
- Title: Storytelling through Captioning

Go beyond basic compliance and discover how high-quality, context-aware captions can transform user experiences. This session explores techniques for creating captions that not only convey dialogue but also tell a story, enhancing comprehension and engagement for all audiences.

Presenter: Sarah Margolis-Greenbaum, Intuit

## The Accessibility Gap in AI-Generated Code: Research & Solutions

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 3 - Deque
- Title: The Accessibility Gap in AI-Generated Code: Research & Solutions

Feeling burned by inaccessible AI code? Having difficulty determining what is fact from fiction in all the claims about AI? Join us to cut through the hype around AI code generation and learn the answer, &quot;Will the code AI gives me actually be accessible?&quot;

Presenter: Preety Kumar, Deque

## The PDF Accessibility Index: 2025-2026 Benchmark Report

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, Insurance, Media & Publishing, Legal, Finance & Banking, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 2
- Title: The PDF Accessibility Index: 2025-2026 Benchmark Report

Serving as the launch of the first-ever PDF Accessibility Index, this session will reveal results from analysis of the state of PDF accessibility. Following rigorous testing of PDFs from key industries, learn trends, benchmarks, and common failures, with insights to drive organizational change.

Presenters: Daniel Sullivan, Allyant
Amy Walldorf, Allyant

## User-Centered Orientation & Mobility Co-Design with BLV Partners

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (10:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Education, and Mobility
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand CD
- Title: User-Centered Orientation & Mobility Co-Design with BLV Partners

Learn how a required User-Centered Design course engages engineering students in co-designing O&M solutions with blind and low vision partners. This session highlights how design teams navigate lived experience, prior art, and venue constraints to identify viable solutions.

Presenters: Ronald Peterson, University of San Diego
Odesma Dalrymple, University of San Diego

# 11:20 AM

## Automation Beyond Axe Core

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Audience: Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 3 - Deque
- Title: Automation Beyond Axe Core

Talk about AI in automated accessibility. Showcase advanced rules and automated IGTs in deque products. Discuss considerations, and the importance of transparency and human oversight.

Presenter: Wilco Fiers, Deque

## Bridging the Gap: Teleservices for Low Vision in Healthcare and Daily Living

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, and Disability Specific
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Elite 1-2
- Title: Bridging the Gap: Teleservices for Low Vision in Healthcare and Daily Living

Attendees will gain strategies for integrating teleservices into healthcare and community programs, learn real-world applications that enhance independence, and explore ways to strengthen collaboration between providers, clients, and caregivers.

Presenters: Kathryn Scheuring, Braille Institute
Melissa Caruso, Braille Institute

## Creating Accessible Video Content: A Ripple Effect

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Audience: Employment & Human Resources, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 1
- Title: Creating Accessible Video Content: A Ripple Effect

Can a custom, accessible video player spark change? At Hilton it has. Learn about our video player and how support for it took on a life of its own. Hear how accessible video has become a tool for marketing, outreach, localization, and more inclusive learning.

Presenters: Adam Page, Hilton
Megan Lilly, Hilton
Leo Kapusta, Hilton
Zane McHattie, Hilton

## Custom AI Chatbots for Student Accessibility and Solutions

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Higher Education, and Disability Specific
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand GH
- Title: Custom AI Chatbots for Student Accessibility and Solutions

This session showcases the CAT Lab Student Helper chatbot, along with bots created by other colleges, to demonstrate how AI can support students with disabilities. Attendees will explore platforms and gain resources, including PlayLab access, to begin building their own chatbot solutions.

Presenters: Mike Sauter, Saddleback College
Brian Krause, El Camino College
Aaron Holmes, Mira Costa College

## Employment-Related Assistive Technology Needs in Autistic Adults: A Mixed-Methods Study

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Employment and Workplace, Healthcare and Rehabilitation, and Research
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Disability Specific, Employment & Human Resources, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 9
- Title: Employment-Related Assistive Technology Needs in Autistic Adults: A Mixed-Methods Study

Explore findings from a national study of 501 autistic adults on assistive technology needs in employment. Learn where AT is most needed, common barriers to use, and practical strategies to create more accessible, personalized workplace supports.

Presenter: Kaiqi Zhou, University of North Texas

## Gulf of Evaluation? Don't Make Me Think� like a Designer!

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Development
- Audience: Media & Publishing, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 3-4
- Title: Gulf of Evaluation? Don't Make Me Think� like a Designer!

Affordances are what things can do. Signifiers are the clues. When they don't match - like a pull handle on a push door - people fail. This talk shows how to spot these mix-ups in your applications and fix them so they work for everyone.

Presenter: Ted Drake, Intuit

## Insights on Assistive Technology Transfer from NIDILRR Grants

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Research
- Audience: Higher Education, Research & Development, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 3 - Journal Track
- Title: Insights on Assistive Technology Transfer from NIDILRR Grants

This session explores the factors that influence the transition from grant funding to outcomes, including publications and patents, for NIDILRR-funded assistive technology innovations. Using a 40-year dataset of over 2,000 NIDILRR projects, we categorized disability focus areas and analyzed how inst

Presenters: Mary Goldberg, University of Pittsburgh
Jonathan Pearlman, University of Pittsburgh

## Is Your Website "Automated Checker Friendly"?

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Web, and Development
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Transportation, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, Marketing, Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, Insurance, Entertainment & Recreation, Agriculture, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 8
- Title: Is Your Website "Automated Checker Friendly"?

There are ways of building websites which work well with automated accessibility checkers, and ways that don't. Learn how to build your site to be as &quot;Automated Checker Friendly&quot; as possible, and get the most coverage and the least noise out of your automated checker, regardless of vendor.

Presenters: Dan Tripp, Siteimprove
Jeremy Gonzales, Siteimprove

## Math Accessibility for Students with Various Print Disabilities

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Education, and Cognitive and Learning Disabilities
- Audience: Higher Education, and K-12 Education
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand AB
- Title: Math Accessibility for Students with Various Print Disabilities

A new web service for converting inaccessible PDF/PowerPoint math materials into various accessible forms is demonstrated. Our accessible math-document editor, which empowers students with print disabilities to author math contents in an intuitive manner, is also discussed.

Presenters: Toshihiko Komada, Nihon University
Katsuhito Yamaguchi, Nihon University

## No Mouse, No Keyboard, No Problem: Accessible Kiosk Apps

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Development
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Government, Transportation, Finance & Banking, and Retail & Wholesale
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 2 - Vispero
- Title: No Mouse, No Keyboard, No Problem: Accessible Kiosk Apps

Learn how kiosk apps differ from websites, why simplicity drives accessibility, and how to design for limited input, hardware integration, and predictable user flows. Attendees will gain practical insights for making kiosks usable across industries.

Presenter: Matt Ater, Vispero

## Open Source Accessibility: 2026 Update and Future Plans

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Engineering, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and Development
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Transportation, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, K-12 Education, Insurance, Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Information & Communications Technology, and Military
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: Open Source Accessibility: 2026 Update and Future Plans

The first Open Source Accessibility Summit was held in October 2025. We'll share a summary of the summit and provide an update on current projects. Join us if you are an open source leader, contributor, or just interested in learning more!

Presenters: Joshua Miele, Center for Accessibility and Open Source
J. Mankoff, UW CREATE
Ed Summers, GitHub

## Title II: Adapting W3C APA Note A11y Maturity Model for Schools

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
- Audience: Higher Education, K-12 Education, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 2
- Title: Title II: Adapting W3C APA Note A11y Maturity Model for Schools

Leverage the Accessibility Maturity Model from the W3C APA Working Group to ensure ADA Title II readiness.&nbsp; Learn from a 4-institution pilot, see how we have adapted the model for schools, and leave with a strategic implementation roadmap.

Presenter: Charles LaPierre, Benetech

## Unlocking Data Visualization Accessibility with Generative AI

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 4 - Amazon
- Title: Unlocking Data Visualization Accessibility with Generative AI

Data visualizations tell vital business stories, but accessibility solutions often miss the narrative behind the data. Learn how generative AI can make these stories accessible to all users, and discover how to implement similar solutions with no coding needed.

Presenter: Jory Cunningham, Amazon AWS

## What's New in Chromebook and Android Accessibility

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (11:20 AM)
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Transportation, Legal, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, Marketing, Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, Disability Specific, K-12 Education, Sales, Insurance, Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Information & Communications Technology, and Military
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand CD
- Title: What's New in Chromebook and Android Accessibility

Attendees will gain an understanding of the latest Chromebook and Android assistive technologies. We will explore assistive technology such as enhanced low vision and magnification tools, screen reader updates, live caption, dictation, and more.

Presenters: Jason Yan, Google
Mariah Moon, Google
Anna Chou, Google
Daniel Norman, Google
Ali Forelli, Google

# 12:00 PM

## Birds of a Feather: Accessibility & AI

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (12:00 PM)
- Audience:
- Audience Level:
- Room: Platinum 5
- Title: Birds of a Feather: Accessibility & AI

Join colleagues, innovators, and advocates for an open networking session focused on the rapidly evolving intersection of accessibility and artificial intelligence. This Birds of a Feather meetup provides a space to share experiences, explore challenges, spark collaborations, and discuss the future of inclusive AI. Whether you're developing AI tools, researching impacts, or championing accessibility in your organization, this informal gathering is a chance to connect with others who share your passion.Hosts: Ken Bigler and Ted Drake

Presenter:

# 1:20 PM

## Accessibility Policy: Your Ally in Inclusion

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Leadership and Strategy, and Law/Compliance and Policy
- Audience: Administration & Business Support, Legal, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 3 - Deque
- Title: Accessibility Policy: Your Ally in Inclusion

A strong accessibility policy drives lasting change but requires careful planning, ongoing review, and engagement. Learn best practices for creating, implementing, and maintaining a policy that motivates buy-in and benefits all stakeholders.

Presenters: Emily Mathias, Deque
Patrick Sturdivant, Deque Systems

## AI as an Ally: Empowering Disability Services and Their Students

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Education, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, K-12 Education, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: AI as an Ally: Empowering Disability Services and Their Students

Learn how AI can help address the invisible understaffing epidemic in higher education by acting as a strategic amplifier, filling operational gaps, reducing burnout, and enabling DSOs to maintain the services that their students need to succeed!

Presenter: Erin Lucas, Johnson & Johnson

## Beyond the User Interface: The Importance of Documenting Accessibility Efforts

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Audience: Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 2 - Vispero
- Title: Beyond the User Interface: The Importance of Documenting Accessibility Efforts

Explore why accessibility strategy should pay the same attention to documentation as to design, development, and testing. Learn what to collect, how to maintain it, and how strong documentation processes support compliance, improve user experience for people with disabilities, and reduce legal risk.

Presenter: David Sloan, Vispero

## Building a Playbook for Accessibility, from Design-to-Development

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Transportation, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Marketing, Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, K-12 Education, Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 1 - Level Access
- Title: Building a Playbook for Accessibility, from Design-to-Development

A practical playbook for embedding accessibility into the design-to-development lifecycle. Learn where to place checkpoints, which ceremonies to run, and how to evolve annotations and handoffs so accessibility consistently makes it from design through implementation.

Presenters: Wesley Hulsizer, Level Access
Ian O'Bara, Level Access

## Captions, AD, and ASL: AI-Assisted Video Accessibility Tool

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, K-12 Education, Government, Media & Publishing, Legal, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 1-2
- Title: Captions, AD, and ASL: AI-Assisted Video Accessibility Tool

DCMP has a new video accessibility tool for adding captions, audio description, and sign language. It is unique because the tool itself is accessible to those with hearing and vision loss. This online tool utilizes AI features to streamline processes. Learn how it can benefit you and your students.

Presenters: Kyle Sisk, DCMP
Jason Stark, Described and Captioned Media Program

## Develop Literacy Skills with the Support of AI

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Emerging Technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Cognitive and Learning Disabilities
- Audience: K-12 Education, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand GH
- Title: Develop Literacy Skills with the Support of AI

What is AI, how is it used, what is preliminary research saying about its effectiveness with students with disabilities, and finally, which AI tools support the learning process for all students, especially those with learning challenges?

Presenter: Nanci Shepardson

## Embedding Accessibility into Scholarly Publishing Programs

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, and Evaluation and Remediation
- Audience: Higher Education, and Media & Publishing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 1
- Title: Embedding Accessibility into Scholarly Publishing Programs

In this presentation, we will share how the Penn State Libraries Open Publishing Program is approaching accessibility. Our goal is to share guidance and resources with publishers so they can strengthen their own accessibility practices.

Presenters: Angel Peterson, Penn State University Libraries
Jules Luck, Penn State University Libraries

## Employee-Driven Accessibility Initiatives That Deliver Impact

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Employment and Workplace, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Administration & Business Support, Disability Specific, Employment & Human Resources, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 7 - AudioEye
- Title: Employee-Driven Accessibility Initiatives That Deliver Impact

Accessibility-focused employee initiatives can drive meaningful change when built with intention. This session offers a proven approach to launching, growing, and sustaining efforts across teams, with practical steps to turn grassroots work into measurable impact.

Presenter: Mariella Paulino, AudioEye

## Enhancing Employee Experience with Accessible L&D

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Employment and Workplace, Leadership and Strategy, and Law/Compliance and Policy
- Audience: Employment & Human Resources
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 9
- Title: Enhancing Employee Experience with Accessible L&D

Learn how to integrate accessibility into HR and L&D for an inclusive workplace. We'll explore developing accessible training, selecting inclusive technology, and empowering managers to support employees with disabilities. Move from compliance to a proactive employee experience strategy, today!

Presenter: Britne Jenke, Inclusive Pixelation

## How Well Do CCC Disability Service Centers' Websites Inform?

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Web, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Higher Education, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 3-4
- Title: How Well Do CCC Disability Service Centers' Websites Inform?

College-bound students with disabilities (SWD) want to know what to expect from campus disability centers (DSC), and the DSC's website may be the first contact point for those students. Yet DSCs seldom analyze their websites from a data-centric approach. Because of the potential impact of those websites.

Presenter: Lesley Farmer, California St. University Long Beach

## Leveraging AI for A11y: Lessons in Validation and Safeguarding

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Emerging Technologies, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 4 - Amazon
- Title: Leveraging AI for A11y: Lessons in Validation and Safeguarding

Discover practical frameworks for implementing AI in accessibility testing, focusing on validation methods, risk management, and ground truth data requirements. Learn when to leverage AI and when to rely on human expertise.

Presenters: Andreas Putz, Amazon
Kiran Kaja, Amazon

## Making Maps with Custom Data Using the Audiom SDK

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and Development
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, Government, Transportation, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 8
- Title: Making Maps with Custom Data Using the Audiom SDK

This session explores legal requirements for maps, multi-source data integration, and customization with sounds, visuals, and text, giving developers practical tools to embed inclusive, fully accessible Audiom maps across apps, websites, and platforms in minutes with the software development kit.

Presenter: Brandon Biggs, XR Navigation and Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute

## Maximize Braille Literacy for Students with VI Using Technology

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Education
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, K-12 Education, Entertainment & Recreation, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand AB
- Title: Maximize Braille Literacy for Students with VI Using Technology

What role should technology play in guiding learning and literacy development for students with visual impairments? Join us as we explore the partnership between braille literacy and technology, and strategies for truly activating and successfully utilizing it in varied learning environments.

Presenter: Jenny Wheeler, American Printing House for the Blind

## Mixed-Ability Game Development through Inclusive Research

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Gaming and Interactive Entertainment, and Research
- Audience: Entertainment & Recreation, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Elite 3 - Journal Track
- Title: Mixed-Ability Game Development through Inclusive Research

Fully inclusive game development that supports blind/low-vision (BLV) and sighted developers remains under-documented. We report an inclusive action-oriented research program building Planet Saga, an accessible action RPG designed for mixed-ability co-play. Blind and sighted developers collaborated as peer-reviewers.

Presenters: Takahiro Miura, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)
Masaki Matsuo, Tsukuba University of Technology

## Scaling Accessibility with the Design Systems

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Development
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, Media & Publishing, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand JK
- Title: Scaling Accessibility with the Design Systems

Scaling accessibility requires both technical implementation and user-centered insights. This session shows how design systems embed accessibility through components, research-driven patterns, and clear documentation. We'll also touch on AI's supporting role. Attendees will gain strategies to reduce accessibility debt and improve product scalabili

Presenters: Maureen Barrientos, Walmart Inc.
Alpesh Danabhai Ahir, Walmart Inc.

## Tito�: Touch-In/Touch-Out Interaction for Tactile Displays

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Emerging Technologies, and Research
- Audience: Higher Education, K-12 Education, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 2
- Title: Tito�: Touch-In/Touch-Out Interaction for Tactile Displays

Experience Tito�, a new tactile interface built into the Codex� multiline braille display. See how touch gestures and braille output combine to enable direct interaction without leaving the braille surface. Learn how this approach simplifies navigation, editing, and digital access.

Presenters: Alex Russomanno, NewHaptics
Sile O'Modhrain, NewHaptics

## Why Buying Appliances in 2026 is Hard for People with Disabilities

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (1:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Engineering, and Blind/Low Vision
- Audience: Disability Specific, Sales, Legal, Retail & Wholesale, Entertainment & Recreation, Manufacturing, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand CD
- Title: Why Buying Appliances in 2026 is Hard for People with Disabilities

This talk will explore why accessible appliances are harder to find. Learn key challenges and how to choose inclusive products. Manufacturers are encouraged to attend and take real steps toward designing everyday items that work better for everyone.

Presenter: Lucy Greco, accessaces.com

# 2:20 PM

## 2026 US Digital Accessibility Legal Update

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Leadership and Strategy, and Law/Compliance and Policy
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Legal, Employment & Human Resources, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: 2026 US Digital Accessibility Legal Update

A fast-paced review of the current US digital accessibility legal space. Hear about state and national laws + regulations and how they are enforced. Discover the impacts of federal policies on digital access laws. Find resources to keep current. Come along as we peer into the legal future.

Presenter: Lainey Feingold, Law Office of Lainey Feingold

## Beyond Compliance: Building Design Systems for Inclusivity

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, and Digital Accessibility
- Audience: Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 3 - Deque
- Title: Beyond Compliance: Building Design Systems for Inclusivity

This session emphasizes that inclusive design systems aren't just about meeting accessibility requirements, but about creating strategic business advantages while serving broader user bases. It will also present a business case with concrete examples.

Presenter: Aparna Pasi, DEQUE SYSTEMS INC

## Cerebral Visual Impairment Challenges Assistive Technology

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Education, and Cognitive and Learning Disabilities
- Audience: Disability Specific
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 1-2
- Title: Cerebral Visual Impairment Challenges Assistive Technology

Long unrecognized, CVI is now known as the leading cause of blindness in children in developed countries. Its fascinating symptoms such as photophobia; visual hallucinations; inability to recognize people, places or things; etc.; present a profound challenge for assistive technology professionals.

Presenter: Deborah Gilden PhD., The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Reseach Institute

## Competitive Advantage in Higher Ed

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Education
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, Employment & Human Resources, Research & Development, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 1 - Level Access
- Title: Competitive Advantage in Higher Ed

Accessibility in higher education is more than compliance - it's a competitive edge. This session explores new ways to educate teams, foster practical understanding, and build a culture where accessibility is applied, not just learned.

Presenters: Laura Fathauer, Miami University of Ohio
Corbb O'Connor, Level Access

## Developing an Accessible Payment Device

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
- Audience: Transportation, Finance & Banking, Retail & Wholesale, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 2 - Vispero
- Title: Developing an Accessible Payment Device

Vispero and Adyen present how JAWS for Kiosk was integrated into Adyen's payment device, enabling blind and low-vision users to complete transactions independently and privately. Learn best practices for accessible payment technology.

Presenter: Matt Ater, Vispero

## Dynamic Generation of Navigable Alt Text for STEM Visuals

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, K-12 Education, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand GH
- Title: Dynamic Generation of Navigable Alt Text for STEM Visuals

Learn how AI-powered hierarchical descriptions solve the accessibility challenge of complex STEM visuals for blind students. Attendees will discover practical implementation strategies, see real molecular structure examples, and understand how this scalable framework applies across STEM education.

Presenters: Julia Winter, Alchemie
Sarah Wegwerth, Alchemie

## Equitable Access & Title II: Lessons from a Pilot Program

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
- Audience: Higher Education, K-12 Education, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 1
- Title: Equitable Access & Title II: Lessons from a Pilot Program

Build accessibility capacity under ADA Title II. Hear from Saint Mary's College, (Notre Dame), WakeTech, and industry expert iAccessDigital on a framework of assessments, maturity models, and professional development that drives equity and inclusion.

Presenters: Charles LaPierre, Benetech
Paula Kaplan, Saint Mary's College, Notre Dame

## Expand Your Solo Business, Recruit an Accessibility Team

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Employment and Workplace, Web, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Administration & Business Support, Media & Publishing, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 9
- Title: Expand Your Solo Business, Recruit an Accessibility Team

By the end of this session, participants will have a clear roadmap and actionable strategies for moving from solo work to leading a flexible, collaborative accessibility team that supports long-term business success.

Presenter: Sumner Davenport, SMDA Web Accessibility Team

## Inclusive by Design, Sustainable by Default

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Development
- Audience: Government, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 3-4
- Title: Inclusive by Design, Sustainable by Default

Discover how sustainability and accessibility best practices overlap and advocate for inclusive digital products that are also better for the planet, in your organization.

Presenters: Lars Holm S�rensen, Acquia
Inka Ilona Taagehoj, Acquia

## Multi-Line Braille UI Standards: Components and Interactions

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Blind/Low Vision, and Development
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Research & Development, Marketing, Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, K-12 Education, Sales, Media & Publishing, Entertainment & Recreation, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand AB
- Title: Multi-Line Braille UI Standards: Components and Interactions

Experience live demonstrations of the first universal design system for multi-line displays. See how standardized components, navigation patterns, and word-wrapping solutions create seamless user experiences. Perfect for braille users, developers, manufacturers, and accessibility professionals.

Presenters: Hrishi Rao, NewHaptics
Thomas Simpson, NewHaptics

## NaviShare: Hybrid Participatory and Co-Design for BVI Wayfinding

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Mobile Technology, and Blind/Low Vision
- Audience: Disability Specific, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 3 - Journal Track
- Title: NaviShare: Hybrid Participatory and Co-Design for BVI Wayfinding

Explore NaviShare, a mobile app that assists blind and visually impaired users to navigate indoor and outdoor spaces, create and share maps, and collaboratively create the tool through a multi-year participatory and co-design process.

Presenter: Daeun Chung, Wellesley College

## Scaling Mobile Accessibility with Google Open Source Libraries

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Mobile Technology, Engineering, and Development
- Audience: Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 8
- Title: Scaling Mobile Accessibility with Google Open Source Libraries

Manual a11y testing doesn't scale. Learn to automate native mobile checks using Google's open-source ATF (Android) & GTX (iOS). We'll show you how to augment your existing Espresso/XCTest suites to find bugs early. Plus, learn to write custom checks for your team's unique issues.

Presenter: Sid Janga, Google

## Smart Dashboards for Accessibility Maturity

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Emerging Technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, Government, Media & Publishing, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Entertainment & Recreation, Research & Development, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand JK
- Title: Smart Dashboards for Accessibility Maturity

Discover how to turn accessibility data into clear, actionable dashboards aligned with the W3C APA Working Group A11y Maturity Model. Learn strategies for visualizing compliance and cultural adoption, using automation and AI to simplify reporting, engage leadership, and support sustainable accessibility practices.

Presenter: Keith Newton, Mantiaba Interactive

## Standards in Practice: Accessibility Capabilities Post-Source

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Emerging Technologies, and Evaluation and Remediation
- Audience: Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 7 - AudioEye
- Title: Standards in Practice: Accessibility Capabilities Post-Source

This session explores the Capabilities Paper of the Accessibility at the Edge Community Group and its impact on post-remediation workflows, ongoing compliance, and evolving standards. Attendees will gain practical steps for aligning enterprise programs with emerging accessibility expectations and continuous compliance models.

Presenters: Michael Paciello, AudioEye
Janina Sajka, Sajka Associates

## Top 10 Pitfalls in Scaling a Digital Accessibility Program

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 2
- Title: Top 10 Pitfalls in Scaling a Digital Accessibility Program

Drawing on UCLA's experience, this session covers the Top 10 pitfalls in launching a digital accessibility program at scale. Learn how to set accurate baselines, avoid common measurement errors, build sustainable training and communication plans, and center disability in institutional change.

Presenters: Judy Thai, University of California, Office of the President
Rose Rocchio, UCLA

## Why This Image Here? An Education Driven Approach to Alt Text

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Education
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, Transportation, Media & Publishing, Retail & Wholesale, Entertainment & Recreation, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand CD
- Title: Why This Image Here? An Education Driven Approach to Alt Text

This session will provide a more informative, interesting, & egalitarian experience for alt text readers. Learn to dig below your image's pretty surface to reveal what it really has to say by interrogating it with 3 deceptively simple questions & structure the answers using educational principles for maximum impact.

Presenter: Laura Ciporen, McGraw Hill Higher Ed.

# 3:20 PM

## A Case Study of Tactile Graphics Through Experimentation

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Blind/Low Vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, and K-12 Education
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand CD
- Title: A Case Study of Tactile Graphics Through Experimentation

This session takes a deep dive into combining visual interpretation, artistic engagement, experimentation, AI, and tactile graphics simultaneously. Attendees will walk away with an understanding of how to create tactile graphics and descriptions.

Presenter: Joy Mistovich, Butler Institute of American Art

## AI Co-Design for Tactile Graphics: Potential, Pitfalls & Prompts

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Blind/Low Vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: AI Co-Design for Tactile Graphics: Potential, Pitfalls & Prompts

Attendees will explore tactile graphic design through natural-language AI prompting. They will learn how to maintain control by crafting precise prompts with dimensional and formatting instructions and by using strategies to address AI hallucinations.

Presenters: Chancey Fleet, New York Public Library
Lauren Race, New York University

## Assistive Technology Pilot for IDD: Findings, Outcomes and Access

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Independent Living, Cognitive and Learning Disabilities, and Research
- Audience: Administration & Business Support, Government, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 8
- Title: Assistive Technology Pilot for IDD: Findings, Outcomes and Access

This session will detail a three-year pilot led by DDS that demonstrates the effectiveness of AT Services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learn how individuals discovered increased independence and quality of life, while maintaining person-centered services.

Presenters: Vanessa Bull, East Bay Innovations (EBI)
John Decker, Alta California Regional Center (ACRC)
Jay Kolvoord, Strategies to Empower People (STEP)

## Balancing Automation and Human Insight in Mobile Testing

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Mobile Technology, Digital Accessibility, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Higher Education, Disability Specific, K-12 Education, Government, Insurance, Employment & Human Resources, Finance & Banking, Entertainment & Recreation, Manufacturing, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 3 - Deque
- Title: Balancing Automation and Human Insight in Mobile Testing

Learn to optimize mobile accessibility testing by strategically combining automated tools with manual evaluation. Discover when automation excels at technical validation and where human insight remains crucial for user experience assessment.

Presenter: Megan Pletzer, Deque Systems, Inc.

## Beyond "Bubbles": Using the Core Combo App to Scaffold Multi-Word Utterances

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Product Demonstration, Education, and Augmentative and Alternative Communications (AAC)
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Disability Specific, K-12 Education, Government, Entertainment & Recreation, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 9
- Title: Beyond "Bubbles": Using the Core Combo App to Scaffold Multi-Word Utterances

Stuck on single words? Discover a publicly available app built to help young learners progress to multi-word utterances. This session demonstrates the tool and shares successful, practical strategies for teachers, therapists & AT specialists.

Presenter: Ethan Richtsmeier, Santa Ana Unified School District

## Drive with Confidence: Google Drive Tips & Tricks

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Education
- Audience: Higher Education, and K-12 Education
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Elite 1-2
- Title: Drive with Confidence: Google Drive Tips & Tricks

Learn practical strategies for organizing, navigating, and collaborating in Google Drive and Docs with or without JAWS. Gain shortcuts, accessibility settings, and real-world techniques that empower students and professionals to manage files efficiently, boost independence, and apply these skills.

Presenter: Max Avendano, CA School for the Blind

## Exploring AI LLMs in Accessible EPUB Creation

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Higher Education, Government, Media & Publishing, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand GH
- Title: Exploring AI LLMs in Accessible EPUB Creation

Explore how GPT-4o, Claude 3.5, and DeepSeek V3 perform in generating accessible EPUB 3.3 files. Learn a step-by-step workflow, compare LLM performance.

Presenter: Ali Charaf, American University Of Beirut

## Feeding Inclusion: The Case for Accessible Delivery Apps

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Cognitive and Learning Disabilities, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Audience: Retail & Wholesale
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 2 - Vispero
- Title: Feeding Inclusion: The Case for Accessible Delivery Apps

Grocery and restaurant delivery apps are no longer optional. This session shows how accessibility failures across the ordering funnel drive abandonment, increase support costs, and erode trust, while inclusive design measurably improves order completion, customer satisfaction, and lifetime value. Learn practical, cross-functional improvements.

Presenter: Dennis McHugh, Vispero

## Finding Freedom with Open Source Digital Accessibility Tools

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Emerging Technologies, and Evaluation and Remediation
- Audience: Administration & Business Support, Higher Education, Government, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 1
- Title: Finding Freedom with Open Source Digital Accessibility Tools

Learn how Open Source accessibility markers redefine success by tracking blockers - real barriers to access - rather than vendor scores. This session demonstrates how higher education and beyond can adopt transparent tools and approaches to create lasting accessibility.

Presenter: Blake Bertuccelli-Booth, University of Illinois Chicago

## Inclusive LBE : A Cooperative Game for Playful Experiences

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Gaming and Interactive Entertainment, and Research
- Audience: Entertainment & Recreation, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 3-4
- Title: Inclusive LBE : A Cooperative Game for Playful Experiences

Discover practical ways to make location-based entertainment more inclusive. Join interactive discussions on real challenges, learn about a cooperative program inspired by a traditional game, and gain ideas for accessible, collaborative experiences.

Presenter: Yuko Taniguchi, Sony Group Corporation

## Navigating Your Way to Independence

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Education
- Audience: Disability Specific, K-12 Education, Transportation, and Entertainment & Recreation
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand AB
- Title: Navigating Your Way to Independence

This presentation covers the common elements of GPS devices as well as the options and individual characteristics. We will touch on how the accessible GPS tool works. After 26 years, the value of accessible GPS remains; products are just smaller.

Presenters: Michael May, American Printing House
Jack Mitchell, Industries of the Blind

## Real-Time Communication Platform for Deafblind Support

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 3 - Journal Track
- Title: Real-Time Communication Platform for Deafblind Support

This session presents a real-time Braille communication platform for higher education, enabling DeafBlind students to join classes without teachers needing Braille or tactile sign. The system converts speech and keyboard input into tagged Braille output while tracking the line being read to manage turn-taking.

Presenters: Takahiro Miura, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)
Junji Onishi, Tsukuba University of Technology

## Storytelling for Inclusive Data Access (With or Without AI)

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Blind/Low Vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, Media & Publishing, Legal, Finance & Banking, Research & Development, Information & Communications Technology, and Marketing
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand JK
- Title: Storytelling for Inclusive Data Access (With or Without AI)

Data storytelling boosts information understanding and retention, and is crucial for accessibility� but it's not easy. Emerging AI tools, like our chart software ParaCharts, help empower empower everyone to make informed choices. We'll show how to craft strong narratives, by hand or with automation.

Presenters: Charlotte McCleary, Fizz Studio
Doug Schepers, Fizz Studio
Tim Podkul, Fizz Studio
Ryan McCleary, Fizz Studio
Simon Varey, Fizz Studio

## Toward Accessible Computer Programming Puzzles for Data Science

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (3:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Education, and Research
- Audience: Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 2
- Title: Toward Accessible Computer Programming Puzzles for Data Science

Small puzzle solving has become a mainstay of modern computer science and data science. In this session, we show how to make such puzzles usable by all with an accessible graphics technology. Participants will learn why it works and walk away with materials usable in the classroom.

Presenters: Derrick Smith, Auburn University at Montgomery
Andreas Stefik, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Hannah Williams, UNLV
Timothy Kluthe, UNLV

# 4:20 PM

## A Playbook for Accessible Chatbots and AI Agents

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Mobile Technology, Web, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Administration & Business Support, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Grand CD
- Title: A Playbook for Accessible Chatbots and AI Agents

Make sure your AI is for everyone. The creators of MITRE's Chatbot Accessibility Playbook will show you how to design, test, and implement accessible chatbots and AI agents that are ethical, accurate, leave no one behind, and meet the criteria for AI assurance.

Presenters: Jennifer Strickland, Syracuse University, Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs
Ronna ten Brink, n/a

## AT to Promote Aging in Place in Age-Friendly Communities

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Independent Living, and Cognitive and Learning Disabilities
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Transportation, and Entertainment & Recreation
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 8
- Title: AT to Promote Aging in Place in Age-Friendly Communities

This session will provide a hands-on overview of a variety of AT solutions and community partnerships to support independent living, develop age-friendly communities, and promote aging in place.

Presenter: Sarah Heldmann, Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities

## Building Inclusive Mindsets: A Scalable Research Framework

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Leadership and Strategy, and Research
- Audience: Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 3-4
- Title: Building Inclusive Mindsets: A Scalable Research Framework

Learn about the Mindsets: a scalable, inclusive alternative to personas. This framework focuses on the purpose of human engagement with your company, creating a universal foundation that ensures scalability while saving time and money.

Presenter: Lauren Britton, Hewlett Packard Enterprise

## College Transition Resources for Visually Impaired Students

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Education, and Independent Living
- Audience: Higher Education, Disability Specific, and K-12 Education
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Elite 1-2
- Title: College Transition Resources for Visually Impaired Students

Hear directly from visually impaired high school students about their experiences seeking resources to support their transition into college. Attendees will learn what resources exist, how to find them, and strategies for advocacy and allyship.

Presenters: Nancy Le, Golden West College
Mina Lamarra, Huntington Beach High School
Stacy Branham, UC Irvine
Khanh Tran, Bolsa Grande High School
Isabella Blake, UC Irvine

## Enhancing Rules-Based Automated Testing with Machine Learning Inference

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Audience: Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Advanced: Considerable experience with topic; strategy and expert level discussion of the subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 2 - Vispero
- Title: Enhancing Rules-Based Automated Testing with Machine Learning Inference

Learn how machine learning�based inference can extend accessibility testing beyond rules-based checks. This session explains how ML works in this context, what it can reveal that DOM inspection misses, and demonstrates examples of how these methods can be applied in practice.

Presenter: Jan Williams, Vispero

## Feature vs. Foundation: Google on AI & Accessibility

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Emerging Technologies, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Disability Specific, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand GH
- Title: Feature vs. Foundation: Google on AI & Accessibility

Should accessible AI be an assistive tech feature (like in TalkBack) or a foundation (like in Gemini)? Explore this strategic tension with Google, examining trade-offs across Search's AI Mode, Project Astra's Visual Interpreter, and more. Leave ready to advocate for an AI future truly built for all.

Presenters: Erika Lehmkuhl, Google
Daniel Tarekegn, Google
Anna Chou, Google
Perrin Anto, Google
Rachel Shearer, Google

## How to Influence Change as an Accessibility Advocate

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, Employment and Workplace, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Employment & Human Resources, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 1
- Title: How to Influence Change as an Accessibility Advocate

This session equips accessibility advocates with practical strategies to influence change from any role. Attendees will learn how to build allies across functions, reframe resistance into opportunity, and embed accessibility into projects, workflows, and team culture.

Presenter: Kai Wong, Teladoc Health

## Navigation Robot in Exhibition Spaces for People with Vision Loss

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Disability Specific, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand AB
- Title: Navigation Robot in Exhibition Spaces for People with Vision Loss

Discover the "AI Suitcase," a navigation robot for people with visual impairment. This session shares key findings from a exhibition space trial, including user feedback and performance data. Learn how this assistive technology can enhance accessibility in museums and other public venues.

Presenter: Reina Nakanishi, Shimizu Corporation

## Promoting Connection and Communication with AAC and AT

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Education, Evaluation and Remediation, and Augmentative and Alternative Communications (AAC)
- Audience: Disability Specific, and K-12 Education
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 9
- Title: Promoting Connection and Communication with AAC and AT

Discover how to support early communication in children with complex needs using AAC and assistive technology. This session covers practical strategies to empower families and professionals across disciplines, offering tools that promote connection and access.

Presenters: Tanya Mallan, Sonoma SELPA Adaptive Technology Center
Christy Riddell, Sonoma SELPA Adaptive Technology Center

## Route Selection by GPS Reliability for the Visually Impaired

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Blind/Low Vision, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and Mobility
- Audience: Disability Specific, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Elite 3 - Journal Track
- Title: Route Selection by GPS Reliability for the Visually Impaired

Navigating with GPS can be unreliable in dense urban areas, posing serious risks for visually impaired (VI) individuals who rely on precise positioning for safety and independence. This session presents a machine learning�based system that predicts GPS reliability by analyzing features such as building height, density, and satellite visibility.

Presenter: Victor Tang, Independent Researcher

## The A11y of Driving

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Audience: Disability Specific, Transportation, and Research & Development
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Grand JK
- Title: The A11y of Driving

With automotive interfaces becoming like apps on wheels, how do accessibility and design principles fit in? Can accessibility and automation open up safe driving for seniors and people with certain disabilities?

Presenter: Claudio Vera, A11yInnovation

## W3C APA Note Accessibility Maturity Model Update

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Digital Accessibility, and Leadership and Strategy
- Audience: Healthcare & Rehabilitation, Administration & Business Support, Higher Education, K-12 Education, Government, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Intermediate: Basic to mid-level knowledge of topic; sharing of smart practices and real-world application of the subject matter.
- Room: Orange County 2
- Title: W3C APA Note Accessibility Maturity Model Update

The APA W3C Accessibility Maturity Model Task Force will provide an overview of their Maturity Model publication and its intended use. They'll share plans for future work and tooling that's under development. You're invited to review the publication at https://www.w3.org/TR/maturity-model/

Presenters: Sheri Byrne-Haber, Haber Consulting LLC
Mark Miller, Independent Consultant

## What We Wish We Knew: Five Years and Three Design Systems Later

- Thursday, March 12, 2026 (4:20 PM)
- Topics: Design, Digital Accessibility, and Development
- Audience: Media & Publishing, Research & Development, and Information & Communications Technology
- Audience Level: Beginning: Minimal knowledge of topic; how-to instruction of a new subject matter.
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: What We Wish We Knew: Five Years and Three Design Systems Later

Accessibility isn't an afterthought, it's the foundation. We'll share how we built accessibility into the Dow Jones multi-brand design system, the missteps and lessons learned along the way, and how designers, engineers, and accessibility pros teamed up to keep it simple, usable, and effective.

Presenters: Jason Ferreira, Dow Jones
Amy Nailor, Dow Jones
Oriol Gomez, Dow Jones

# 7:00 PM

## Karaoke

- Friday, March 13, 2026 (7:00 PM)
- Audience:
- Audience Level:
- Room: Platinum 6
- Title: Karaoke

Karaoke returns for an energetic evening centered on music, performance, and shared fun.Light refreshments and a cash bar will be available.

Presenter: