Beyond Compliance: Building Inclusive Learning Environments in 2026 | Empowered by Design

Colleges face a 2026 deadline to make online content fully accessible, and the stakes have never been higher. This article explores common barriers, legal risks and practical steps for creating inclusive classrooms and AV environments. Learn why universal design isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential for compliance, reputation, and attracting students. Read More

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December 10, 2025

It is OK to not be OK | Empowered by Design

You’re not alone. Stress and uncertainty affect us all. Taking care of yourself matters—and so does creating a workplace where support is the norm. It’s OK to not be OK, and it’s OK to ask for help. Read More

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November 12, 2025

Never “Just Another Room”: Starting With Why in Higher Ed AV | Empowered by Design

Never “Just Another Room”: Starting With Why in Higher Ed AV Empowered by Design — with Chris Kelly Picture this: a professor can’t get an image on the projector five minutes before class. We remote in, unmute the video feed, and—voilà—picture restored. Ticket closed. On to the next one. But if our job ends there,... Read More

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October 8, 2025

What in the world is WCAG/WAI and why should HETMA folks care? | Empowered by Design

Higher Ed AV Media is proud to debut a new regular column: Empowered by Design with Chris Kelly What in the world is WCAG/WAI and why should HETMA folks care? Digital accessibility isn’t just a box to check—it’s both a moral responsibility and a practical necessity. In higher education, students, faculty, and staff rely on... Read More

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September 30, 2025

My Take: It’s More Than an Alliance – It’s a Community

It’s More Than an Alliance – It’s a CommunityBy Chris Kelly Why You Should Join HETMA: It’s More Than an Alliance—It’s a Community Let’s start with the most obvious reason: there’s no reason not to. HETMA is free to join—and it always will be. For anyone working in higher education AV/IT, this organization offers a solution to... Read More

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September 3, 2025

Neurodiversity in Higher Ed AV/IT | Front Page Focus

By Chris Kelly At InfoComm in July 2025, I attended a valuable session on neurodiversity and inclusive design led by Kay Sargent, Director of Thought Leadership at HOK—a global design, architecture, engineering and planning firm. Kay’s expertise and engaging presentation style were excellent, but a highlight of the session was receiving a copy of her... Read More

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