As Princeton continues to invest in various initiatives to foster a more equitable and inclusive environment for people from diverse backgrounds, the institution recognizes the importance of incorporating accessibility in digital environments as part of its ongoing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts.

The Policy on Digital Accessibility, which was revised in November 2023, states that “academic and administrative units conducting core educational or administrative activities are required to align websites and other information technology with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA to promote digital accessibility for students, employees and/or the public.”

This change further ensures that all University websites, online documents, multimedia content and other digital resources purchased, designed, or developed comply with accessibility standards and best practices to ensure they are usable to people with disabilities. Standards and practices also improve usability overall, so everyone benefits.

“Nearly 1 in 4 people have a disability that affects their work or study. Digital accessibility has a greater goal than compliance. It makes technology inclusive to everyone at Princeton and to those who engage with us,” said senior director of digital accessibility Mary Albert.

Princeton's Digital Accessibility Program, which operates through the Office of Information Technology, helps ensure the University's websites, digital resources and software applications are more accessible. In addition to its testing and training services, the program builds accessibility into processes so that it becomes common practice.

“The goal of the Digital Accessibility Program is to make digital accessibility a shared responsibility and common practice so all can thrive,” said Albert.

The program offers resources and training throughout the year for academic and administrative units and staff on creating accessible websites, web content, documents, presentations and other digital resources. Visit the Digital Accessibility website for more information about these opportunities and to learn more about the program and its services.