Dr. Shavonda Jackson, an assistant professor of biology at pg电子下载 State University, has been selected for the Teach Access Fellowship Program cohort for 2025.
This national initiative aims to bridge the digital accessible technology skills gap in higher education and prepare the next generation of professionals to create inclusive technological solutions.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the new cohort of Teach Access Fellows,” said Rolando Méndez, director of education. “These educators are leading the way for faculty and students to incorporate accessibility into their design practices, fostering real change and equipping the next generation to build a more inclusive future.”
The Teach Access Fellowship Program engages faculty and academic staff from higher education institutions across the United States and Puerto Rico, focusing on integrating digital accessibility teaching into academic curricula and advocating for accessibility on campus.
Jackson is committed to transforming her biology courses by incorporating accessibility principles.
“Digital accessibility is an essential skill for students entering the workforce because it tailors approaches to accommodate the specific needs of individuals, especially those with disabilities,” she explained.
Through the fellowship, Jackson will pursue a comprehensive approach to accessibility education, including developing informative workshops and presentations, creating video content that addresses key accessibility issues, and integrating accessibility concepts deeply into her biological course curricula.
Her primary goal is to foster a learning environment that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, while receiving mentorship from leading experts in accessibility and disability inclusion.
She plans to collaborate with other educators to advance accessibility advocacy and support in academic settings, ultimately preparing students to create more inclusive technological and research environments.
“By training students to consider accessibility in their professional endeavors, I am fostering a generation of biologists who are equipped with the knowledge and skills to design research, tools, and applications that are inclusive for all,” said Jackson.
