Digital Accessibility Statement
Note: Direct questions regarding digital accessibility to hcc-accessibility@hcc.edu.
Holyoke Community College (HCC) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable educational environment, exemplified in HCC’s Strategic Plan 3.0, which emphasizes accessibility as a core value. In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice issued updated regulations under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requiring public institutions to ensure that all digital content and services are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This commitment aligns with HCC’s mission to promote equity and inclusion.
The updated regulations mandate conformance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA, and HCC is committed to the more advanced WCAG 2.2 Level AA standard. Achieving this higher level of compliance and increasing accessibility aligns with key goals of Strategic Plan 3.0, specifically enhancing academic distinction, fostering a transformational student experience, and strengthening community partnerships.
Holyoke Community College has employed a phased, institution-wide strategy that operationalizes accessibility within the framework of Strategic Plan 3.0.
Phase One of the HCC digital accessibility strategy, currently in process, includes documented measures toward awareness and training, governance, policy development, procurement controls, prioritized remediation, and complaint response processes.
Phase Two will see a continuance of the work in Phase One, along with a comprehensive audit, remediation of remaining digital content, and the development of a sustainable model to achieve and maintain WCAG 2.2 AA compliance across all digital environments
This approach will ensure that accessibility becomes an integral part of our institutional culture. This commitment will demonstrate HCC’s leadership in promoting equity and compliance in our educational offerings. By prioritizing digital accessibility, HCC embodies its mission to create an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive. Together, we can advance our collective commitment to excellence and equity.
