Jun 25 2026

Digital Accessibility Training: Make Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets Accessible with Grackle!

June 25, 2026

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM America/Chicago

Zoom link

https://uic.zoom.us/j/82590235265?pwd=3vxMncU3l5q4NLhkfFVDpLVr7I9uQO.1

Cost

Free

Calendar

Download iCal File

Overview

Please join Helen Zhou, Assistant Director of Digital Accessibility Services, and Michael Fu, Digital Accessibility Specialist, for a walkthrough of Grackle Accessibility Checkers for Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides.

During this session, you will learn how to use Grackle to identify accessibility issues and create more accessible digital content. We will walk through how to install and use the Grackle extensions, highlight key features, and demonstrate practical strategies for improving the accessibility of documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.

The session will also include time for discussion and Q&A to support your continued use of Grackle. Whether you are new to accessibility checking or looking to strengthen your existing workflows, this session is a great opportunity to explore accessible content creation in Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides.

What is Grackle?

Grackle is an accessibility checking tool for Google Workspace that helps users identify and address accessibility issues in Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. It supports more accessible content creation by guiding users through common accessibility checks and recommendations.

Target Audience

UIC faculty, staff, content creators, document authors, accessibility liaisons, IT professionals, and anyone who creates or shares materials using Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides.

Learning Objectives:

  • How to install and access Grackle extensions
  • How to use Grackle Docs, Sheets, and Slides to check for accessibility issues
  • Common accessibility issues found in Google Workspace files
  • Practical strategies for improving documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
  • How Grackle can support more accessible content creation workflows

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

Jun 4, 2026

Date updated

Jun 8, 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.https://www.linkedin.com/in/xiao-zhou-8b2a9a275/

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!!