Digital Accessibility

Before publishing Microsoft Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, PDFs or spreadsheets:

• Use built-in heading styles to organize content.
• Create lists and tables using built-in formatting tools.
• Add alternative text to informative images, charts and graphics.
• Use descriptive hyperlink text instead of phrases such as "Click here."
• Ensure sufficient color contrast.
• Run the built-in Accessibility Checker before publishing.
• Export accessible PDFs when appropriate.

Images should enhance content without creating barriers.

When using images:

• Add alternative text that describes the purpose of meaningful images.
• Mark decorative images appropriately so they are ignored by assistive technology.
• Avoid placing important information within images whenever possible.
• Provide text descriptions for complex graphics, charts and diagrams.

Accessible multimedia helps ensure that everyone can engage with digital content.

Best practices include:

• Provide accurate closed captions for all videos.
• Review automatically generated captions before publishing.
• Provide transcripts for audio-only content.
• Verbally describe important visual information during presentations and recordings.
• Use media players that support keyboard navigation.

When creating or updating webpages:

• Organize content using proper heading levels.
• Write in plain language.
• Use meaningful page titles and headings.
• Write descriptive link text.
• Ensure forms include clear labels and instructions.
• Review content using accessibility evaluation tools and manual testing when appropriate.

If you need information or materials in an alternative format, Lincoln University is committed to providing reasonable access whenever possible.

Please contact Access&AbilityServices@LincolnU.edu to request accessible versions of documents or other digital materials.

Lincoln University welcomes feedback about the accessibility of its website and digital resources.

If you encounter an accessibility barrier, please contact Access&AbilityServices@LincolnU.edu and include:

• The webpage or document where the issue occurred.
• A description of the accessibility issue.
• The device, browser or assistive technology you were using, if applicable.
• Your contact information if you would like a response.

The university will review reported issues and work to provide accessible alternatives whenever possible.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to create accessible digital content before publishing or sharing materials with students and colleagues.

Recommended accessibility practices include:

• Creating accessible Microsoft Office documents.
• Producing accessible PDFs.
• Captioning video content.
• Providing transcripts for audio recordings.
• Using descriptive hyperlinks.
• Verifying color contrast.
• Testing content with accessibility evaluation tools before publication.

Additional university training and accessibility resources will be made available as they are developed.

The federal government has approved new ADA rules that will take effect in April 2026. These regulations will focus on web content, mobile accessibility and compliance with WCAG 2.1 AA standards for digital materials and products. We are actively working to adhere to these guidelines.

Learn about the federal accessibility laws listed below:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and ensures they have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires that programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance be accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires federal electronic and information technology to be accessible to people with disabilities, including employees and members of the public.

According to the Missouri Assistive Technology website, a Missouri state statute mandates accessibility in the development, procurement, maintenance or use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This requirement also applies when administering contracts or grants that involve the procurement, development or upgrading of ICT. The statute is applicable to all public four-year and two-year colleges and universities in Missouri.

We recognize that accessibility is an ongoing effort, and your feedback is invaluable to us as we strive to create a digitally accessible campus. If you have any questions, suggestions or encounter any accessibility issues with our digital content, please do not hesitate to contact the Office of Access and Ability Services (contact information listed below). We are here to assist and ensure that our digital environment is accessible to all.

Together, we can ensure that Lincoln University of Missouri remains a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.