UMass Amherst Information Technology's Assistive Technology Center (ATC) is becoming the Digital Accessibility Center (DAC), with the transition taking place over the course of spring and summer 2026.
The change in name reflects a realignment of the Center's services to meet evolving campus needs for support, particularly around website accessibility and procurement assessment of digital platforms. These changes align with the University's federated approach to support compliance with ADA Title II and Massachusetts state law requirements.
"This work is about more than compliance," said Chris Misra, Vice Chancellor for Information Technology & Chief Information Officer. "We're working to build a campus where accessibility and inclusion are foundational to everything we do, supporting every member of our community to fully participate in the work and life of UMass Amherst."
The Center supports UMass Amherst students, faculty, and staff with assistive technologies, provides campus departments with website accessibility reporting and audits, and assists with evaluating the accessibility of new technologies or applications through VPAT/ACR reviews. These services complement the efforts of other campus units, including Disability Services, the Equal Opportunity & Access Office, Instructional Design, Engagement, and Support (IDEAS Group), and UMass Amherst Libraries.
Staffing Updates
The transition includes strategic changes to the Center's staff to better serve the campus community:
Joanne Patalano will move from her current web developer role to the DAC team as Digital Experience and Accessibility Specialist, bringing deep knowledge of web accessibility to strengthen services in support of digital inclusion and compliance.
Marcie Savoie is joining the Instructional Design, Engagement, and Support (IDEAS) group as Senior Instructional Designer, where she will bring her knowledge of accessible design and Universal Design for Learning to help faculty create accessible courses.
Gail Gunn continues in her role as Digital Access & Usability Analyst.
Increasing Student Presence
The Center will expand student support roles for peer engagement as well as support for accessibility analysis and hands-on assistance. New positions include:
Student Ambassadors (Digital Accessibility)
Student Interns (Web Accessibility)
DAC Support Students (Lab & Triage Assistance)
The expansion of student roles is core to the University’s mission to provide career pathways for UMass Amherst students through professional opportunities and career development.
The Center's six-seat computer lab in the W.E.B. Du Bois Library will continue to provide a dedicated space for community and support for students with disabilities, offering access to assistive technology resources in a central campus location.
Expanding Assistive Technology Loaner Program
The Center will expand its assistive technology loaner inventory to offer a more inclusive and flexible experience for all users. Planned improvements include:
Replacing older devices with modern, fully supported solutions (e.g., CCTVs, updated scanning tools, and improved audio input devices such as headsets and microphones)
Adding Microsoft's Adaptive Hub and Adaptive Accessories, which support customizable input options, wireless adaptive buttons, and compatibility with assistive switches
Expanding alternative input options, including adaptive keyboards and mice, joystick-based pointing devices, and adaptive gaming controllers
Updating mobility-friendly hardware, such as adjustable mounts and positioning arms
Updates about the transition will be shared on the UMass Amherst IT website.