University of Phoenix leader shares strategies for student-centered digital learning at WCET Annual Conference

Kelly Hermann presented sessions on governance, documentation and institutional strategies that support equitable learning experiences

PHOENIX, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Kelly Hermann, vice president of Accessibility and Student Affairs at University of Phoenix, recently presented two sessions at the WCET Annual Conference, sharing strategies and lessons learned to help higher education institutions strengthen digital learning practices and support equal access for learners.

WCET, the WICHE Cooperative for Educational Technologies, focuses on the practice, policy and advocacy of digital learning in higher education. The three-day conference, held Oct. 14-16, brought together higher education professionals to share advances in digital learning practices and explore emerging policy challenges facing colleges, universities and other organizations.

Building sustainable digital learning practices

Hermann co-presented the preconference workshop, "Making Accessibility Defensible: What to Document and Why," which explored sustainable practices for supporting students with disabilities across digital learning environments, course materials and support services.

The session examined approaches for building and maintaining programs that support governance, audit readiness and consistent decision-making. Attendees discussed common forms of documentation institutions use to support accessibility efforts, including Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates (VPATs), procurement records, review workflows, remediation plans, compliance plans and institutional policies. The workshop also offered practical guidance for integrating accessibility evidence and documentation into instructional design and digital learning operations.

"Accessibility is an ongoing commitment that requires institutions to pair sustainable practices with collaboration across academic, instructional design and technology teams," said Hermann. "These sessions provided an opportunity to share lessons learned and practical approaches that can help institutions strengthen accessibility efforts while supporting the needs of all learners."

Lessons learned from cross-functional collaboration

Hermann also co-presented the session, "Accessibility: Lessons Learned and Experiences Shared," which highlighted the work of cross-functional teams supporting accessibility initiatives at higher education institutions.

The session encouraged participants to exchange experiences, discuss challenges and explore strategies for ensuring digital content can be accessed by all users. Discussions also examined lessons learned through accessibility initiatives and opportunities for continued collaboration to support accessibility efforts across the higher education digital learning community.

Supporting equitable learning experiences

The presentations reflected ongoing efforts across higher education to strengthen practices that support equitable access to educational content, digital learning environments and student services. Through her presentations, Hermann shared approaches institutions can use to support governance, cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement efforts that benefit learners.

About Kelly Hermann

As vice president of Accessibility and Student Affairs University of Phoenix, Hermann oversees the University's accessibility initiatives, including the evaluation and remediation of curricular resources, the Center for Access, Resources, Engagement and Support Services (CARES), and the Office of Collaborative Learning and Educational Engagement. Her leadership supports efforts to foster a welcoming educational environment for students, faculty and staff.

Hermann's leadership in accessibility and inclusive learning is broadly recognized throughout the education technology community. She co-authored a chapter on accessibility in Leading the eLearning Transformation of Higher Education and has contributed to publications and resources developed by Anthology, D2L, WCET and the Online Learning Consortium, as well as other leading educational publications. Hermann has also received global recognition as a 1EdTech Leader for her work in creating open, trusted, and innovative digital ecosystems that power learner potential.  

Hermann is a key member of University of Phoenix's dynamic leadership team, frequently invited to share their expertise at prestigious national conferences and events. In 2026, University leaders will participate in the ASU + GSV Summit, 1EdTech Learning Impact Conference, SXSW EDU Conference, and PESC Data Summit. These engagements underscore the University's commitment to innovation and thought leadership in higher education, providing valuable insights and fostering collaborations that drive the future of learning.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

SOURCE University of Phoenix