These trainings are provided by the VCCS. If you are unable to attend a session live, the recordings will be available.
VCCS Digital Accessibility Site
The VCCS Digital Accessibility site brings together essential guidance, tools, and training our faculty and staff need to prepare for the 2026 federal accessibility requirements. You will find clear explanations of the new DOJ rules, summaries of WCAG 2.1 AA standards, practical how-to resources for creating accessible documents and media, and step-by-step training modules designed for beginners and seasoned creators alike. The site also highlights systemwide expectations, timelines, and support structures to help colleges build accessible courses, communications, and services. It’s a practical, action-oriented hub that contains a plethora of resources to support our work to ensure every student, employee and members of our community can participate fully in the services and activities offered here at Virginia Western.
Canvas Accessibility with UDOIT Advantage
Ongoing: Canvas Accessibility with UDOIT Advantage
Offered throughout the academic year by NOVA’s Canvas & Educational Technology Support Services team. Register for a UDOIT session.
FIX IT Sessions by NOVA (Deeper dive into Canvas and UDOIT) might hit the mark for you.
Drop-In Accessibility Support Labs with Page Durham
No registration required — all sessions use the same Zoom link.
Drop in for one-on-one support with accessibility, AI tools, or DOJ Title II compliance. Each session includes a focus topic, but all questions and materials are welcome at any time.
- Open to all VCCS faculty and staff — no registration needed
- Come anytime during the listed window.
- Bring a file, question, or course item you’d like reviewed.
Open Lab Zoom Link for all Sessions
| Date | Time | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| Tues., Nov 25 | 12 PM – 4 PM | Excel & Google Sheets Convert spreadsheets into accessible PDFs |
| Tues., Dec 2 | 10 AM – 2 PM | UDOIT Advantage Deep Dive Interpret UDOIT reports and improve Canvas content |
| Wed., Dec 3 | 9 AM – 2 PM | Accessible PDFs & PAVE Hands-on practice tagging scanned/untagged PDFs |
| Thur., Dec 4 | 2 PM – 6 PM | Google Workspace & Grackle Check Docs, Slides, and Sheets for accessibility |
| Tues., Dec 9 | 9 AM – 2 PM | STEM Accessibility Address formulas, simulations, and STEM tools |
| Thur., Dec 11 | 3 PM – 7 PM | AI for Accessibility Use Gemini and Copilot for alt text, transcripts, and simplification |
| Mon., Dec 15 | 12 PM – 5 PM | Accessible Forms (Google & MS) Build WCAG-compliant online forms; avoid PDF pitfalls |
| Tues., Dec 16 | 1 PM – 5 PM | Accessible Emails Create inclusive emails with structure and alt-texted logos |
| Wed., Dec 17 | 9 AM – 2 PM | Canva & Visual Design Checks Design flyers/graphics with proper contrast and alt text |
| Thur., Dec 18 | 3 PM – 7 PM | Building Accessible Courses Use UDOIT, headings, and AI strategies for compliance |
| Mon., Dec 22 | 9 AM – 2 PM | Open Clinic Bring any document or Canvas page for live help |
| Tues., Dec 23 | 3 PM – 7 PM | PDF & Document Remediation Clinic Get step-by-step support using PAVE, Acrobat, or Grackle |
| Mon., Jan 5 | 9 AM – 2 PM | Accessibility Refresher & Next Steps Kick off 2026 with updated guidance and checklists |
- Office of Disability Services Home
- How to Apply
- Accommodations & Services
- Student Rights & Responsibilities
- Accommodation Access Plans
- Disability Services Forms
- Filing a Grievance
- Regional Academy & Dual Enrollment Students
- For Parents & Supporters
- Campus Resources
- Community & Online Resources
- Digital Accessibility Project
Contact Us
Hillary Holland, LPC
Disability Counselor/ADA Coordinator
hholland@virginiawestern.edu
540-857-6488
Chris Porter, MS
Dean of Learning Resources & Online Learning
Brown Library B105
cporter@virginiawestern.edu
540-857-6697