Analisa McMillan, PhD, is working to advance UNMC’s accessibility efforts as the newly appointed interim executive director of digital accessibility and online learning. In her new role, she will help UNMC meet federal accessibility requirements while supporting faculty and staff in creating accessible online content and learning environments.
As the instructor of the popular NU Advance course, “Teaching Online: Design, Development and Teaching Presence,” Dr. McMillan helps educators around the world develop effective, accessible and engaging online content. Through her leadership of the UNMC College of Public Health’s Office of Teaching and Learning, as well as her work with UNMC Academic Affairs and the Interprofessional Academy of Educators, she has worked with faculty and staff across the institution on course design, digital learning and digital accessibility.
“The focus of this role is to support faculty and staff in creating sustainable, accessible digital experiences by building awareness, providing practical guidance and resources, and fostering a culture in which accessibility is a shared responsibility from the very beginning,” Dr. McMillan said.
The University of Nebraska System and UNMC remain committed to creating accessible digital content under Americans with Disabilities Act Title II guidance, as outlined in NU Executive Memorandum 47 (EM 47).
Dr. McMillan’s initial priorities will be establishing a centralized resource hub, expanding training opportunities and helping faculty and staff implement accessibility best practices. Reporting tools such as Canvas Ally Scores, training participation metrics and other relevant data will be collected and analyzed to guide and monitor efforts across the institution.
“I’m looking forward to building on current resources, providing practical support and training, and working alongside faculty, staff, and students to create digital content that is accessible for everyone,” Dr. McMillan said.
As part of those efforts, a series of platform-specific accessibility workshops will begin this month and continue monthly into the new year. Each session includes instructor-led online training via Zoom, followed by optional office hours. Watch the UNMC calendar for upcoming training sessions.
“Creating accessible digital experiences starts with each of us,” said Dr. McMillan. “Digital accessibility is a shared commitment across UNMC.” Faculty and staff can stay up to date on resources, training opportunities and accessibility guidance through UNMC’s ADA Title II website or by emailing the Digital Accessibility Support Hub at dash@unmc.edu.