February 14, 2007
To the Campus Community:
Last fall, the CSU Chancellor's Office issued a systemwide memo requiring CSU campuses to make their information technology resources and services accessible to all, including people with disabilities, in compliance with federal and state laws and CSU policy. The Chancellor's Office now has issued an update to that document with revised timelines at:
http://www.calstate.edu/acadaff/codedmemos/AA-2007-04.pdf
The directive includes specific goals in three areas: 1) Web accessibility, 2) instructional materials accessibility, and 3) accessible electronic and information technology procurement.
Cal State Northridge already has made significant progress in meeting these objectives through the work of the University Web Management Committee--comprised of representatives from every division--and the Office of University Web Communications. However, there is and will continue to be considerable work ahead.
We are in the process of developing a universitywide plan that will address the Chancellor's Office mandate, with each division providing input appropriate to its needs. The first part of the plan was my approval last month of a revised university Web policy. The policy makes it clear that university Web materials authored by faculty and staff in support of the university's mission must be accessible for all. The full policy can be found at:
http://www-admn.csun.edu/vp/policies/900_oversight/900_08.html
Looking ahead, faculty and staff in each division can anticipate regular communication from their leadership regarding implementation of the plan.
Cal State Northridge long has been a national leader in providing opportunities for people with disabilities. I look forward to the campus community working together to continue that commitment by making university Web sites and instructional materials fully accessible to everyone, in accordance s with the CSU's mandate.
Jolene Koester
President