Plan an Event | Accessibility Guide

Accessibility should be a central component of all event planning done by your student organization. Following these simple guidelines will go a long way in creating events and environments that are more accessible and more inclusive. Check out the full accessibility guide and tips below.

 

Bring Accessibility Forward

Consider the ways you can promote accessibility when planning your event and preparing your materials

 
Photo of a graduating student's service dog on duty during a graduation ceremony

Accessibility Requests for Attendees

Include information on CONNECT and in marketing materials for attendees who may want to request accommodations. An example may be "If you are an individual with a disability and need accommodations, please contact (name, phone number, email,). at least [time frame, usually one week] in advance of the event.

Photo of a presentation that is given within a Memorial Student Center's meeting room

PowerPoints

Be mindful of text size, colors, and images in your presentations. Promote as much readability as possible. We suggest using automatic captions during the presentation and a microphone.

Photo of print-outs prepared for an on-campus conference.

Prepare Printed and Digital Materials

Have printed copies of your digital materials and digital copies of your printed materials. For printed materials, use text with sans serif font and a font size of at least 14 pt. Be mindful of images and color contrast to promote readability.

 
Photo of a conference presentation with the Stout Proud Logo displayed on the floor's accessible aisle.

Consider the Space

Consider an Aisle

Make sure to have a clear path for attendees. It's recommended to have an aisle that is 36 - 64 inches wide.

Accessibility Entrances

If your event is off-campus, pick a location that offers accessibility entrances.

Offer Accessibility Seating

Include accessibility seating next to offered areas for wheelchairs and other mobility aides. These spaces are also useful for individuals with service animals.

Have Tables that Fit Mobility Devices

For a table to fit a wheelchair or scooter, it should be between 28-34 inches from the floor.

Photo of a American Sign Language Interpreter during an on-campus presentation

Consider an ASL Interpreter

If you'd like to have an ASL Interpreter at your event, you can contact Disability Services, and they will help you find an interpreter.

*Please Note: This service has a charge.

Please contact Disability Services a minimum of a week before your event.

 

Other Considerations

Inform Volunteers and Coordinators

Make sure everyone is aware of accessibility seating locations, entrances, and exits. This ensures attendees are directed to the right places quickly and kindly.

Give An Overview & Breaks

At the start of a presentation or activity, give your participants a brief but informative overview. Be sure to give them time to process, as well. We also recommend breaks during lengthy presentations or events.

Be an Inclusive Presenter

The presenter or facilitator should use the microphone for the duration of the presentation and should repeat audience questions through the microphone to facilitate hearing. They should also provide their name, pronouns (if they'd like), and role at the start of a presentation. This can help promote a sense of inclusion and connection.

Utilize Captions

When presenting any audio or video content, be sure to provide captions. Please note that auto-generated captions are usually inaccurate and contain errors.

Consider Allergens when Bringing Food

When bringing food and drink items, consider having allergen friendly options for attendees to pick from. If you are utilizing University Dining Services, click here to read about nutrition and allergens

Consider a Quiet Space

Some guests may need a quiet space to break way from stimuli. Consider having a small secondary space for guests to break away from the loud and lively.

 

Contact Us

The Involvement Center and the Disability Services Office are happy to answer your questions and help you plan your event

Involvement Center

Email: involvement@uwstout.edu

Memorial Student Centers - 1st Floor

Disability Services Office

Email: disabilityservices@uwstout.edu

University Library - Room 120

(715) 232-2995