Apr 29 2026

Digital Accessibility Training: Equalify Is Now Live – Campuswide Launch!

April 29, 2026

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM America/Chicago

Zoom link

https://uic.zoom.us/j/86509295867?pwd=MLG6LJcn8NoeRuUvpvio7aCXPUng0X.1

Cost

Free

Calendar

Download iCal File

Overview

Please join our Assistant Director of Digital Accessibility Services, Helen Zhou, and Digital Accessibility Specialist, Michael Fu as we officially launch UIC Equalify across UIC! We’ll share updates based on user feedback, highlight new and enhanced features, and demonstrate how you can make the most of the platform in your daily work. You’ll also hear about what’s ahead and how your continued input will help shape future improvements.

The session will include time for live Q&A, so bring your questions—we’re here to help you get started with confidence.

 

What is UIC Equalify?

UIC Equalify is an open-source web accessibility platform adopted by UIC to support campus-wide accessibility and compliance efforts. It enables UIC teams to proactively test and monitor digital content through unlimited site scanning, on-demand scans, historical reporting, and a robust API, and is screen reader accessible by design, reinforcing accessibility as a public good.

 

Target Audience

This session is designed for campus community members who support, develop, maintain, or evaluate digital content, including:

  • Web developers and front-end engineers
  • Digital accessibility specialists and coordinators
  • IT professionals responsible for website or application maintenance
  • RED Content editors and website administrators
  • Accessibility liaisons or compliance leads within colleges and units
  • Teams currently using or familiar with accessibility testing tools such as Axe Monitor or similar automated scanning platforms
  • Project managers or digital product owners overseeing accessibility compliance and remediation efforts

 

Learning Objectives:

  • Share updates to Equalify platform based on user feedback
  • Highlight new and enhanced features
  • Demonstrate a live example of how to use Equalify in your daily work

 

Accessibility Information

This Zoom training will feature automatic captions. If available, electronic copies of the presentation materials will be shared prior to the session.

For any additional access requests or questions, please reach out to the DASE team using the contact information below.

Contact

Technology Solutions - Digital Accessibility Services & Engineering (DASE) Team
accessibility@uic.edu

Date posted

Apr 8, 2026

Date updated

Apr 23, 2026

Speakers

Helen Zhou | Assistant Director of Digital Accessibility Services | University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) - Technology Solutions

Helen Zhou is the Assistant Director of Digital Accessibility Services at the University of Illinois Chicago, leading campus-wide accessibility consultation, training, evaluation, and compliance efforts. She collaborates with academic and administrative partners to align digital accessibility with institutional priorities and provides strategic guidance across platforms, applications, and content. She holds the Information Accessibility Design and Policy (IADP) Certificate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is certified by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) as both a Certified Professional in Web Accessibility (CPWA) and a Certified Accessible Document Specialist (ADS). An active member of the Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) Planning Committee, she is committed to advancing accessibility in higher education.

Michael Fu | Digital Accessibility Specialist | University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) - Technology Solutions

Mingren (Michael) Fu is a CPACC-certified Digital Accessibility Specialist dedicated to creating inclusive and accessible digital experiences. With expertise in WCAG compliance, assistive technologies, and UX/UI design, he helps organizations identify and remove accessibility barriers to ensure usability for all. Michael has advanced accessibility initiatives at NYU and led research and design projects for the United Nations, Google, and the Humboldt Forum Museum, applying human-centered design and compliance strategies to improve digital inclusivity. He holds a degree in Interactive Media from NYU, specializing in Accessibility, Human-Computer Interaction, and Product UX Design. Outside of work, he loves to go bicycling and hiking with friends. He enjoys taking in the stunning views of Chicago's skyline and lakefront from the city's towering skyscrapers. As a problem solver and AI enthusiast, Michael is passionate about bridging technology and accessibility to drive innovative and equitable solutions. He is so excited to be a part of the UIC community!!