A move toward accessibility requires both a cultural and technological paradigm shift. Yet the true potential resides in what people achieve when they partner to prioritize access. This concept was vividly demonstrated during Princeton’s inaugural Global Accessibility Awareness Day event in April.

International disability-rights advocate Haben Girma

“Princeton is deeply committed to providing an inclusive educational and working environment for all the members of our community,” said Vice Provost Michele Minter in her opening remarks. “We must be a place where everyone’s perspectives, experiences, and talents are valued.” As GAAD demonstrated, that commitment extends beyond those who call Princeton home. During her keynote address, international disability-rights advocate Haben Girma received real-time audience feedback for the first time via a unique haptic feedback device. Created for Girma by a pair of Princeton undergraduate students, it was a profound and moving example of technology’s ability to empower.

Read the complete story, and view the 2016-2017 OIT Annual Report, for which I was the editorial lead.