I am the newest member of the Rocky Mountain ADA Center team, holding the position of ADA Services Coordinator. Previously, I worked with the RMADAC while finishing my bachelor’s degree in Environmental and Sustainability Studies at the University of Northern Colorado. I graduated in May of 2024 and was involved on campus in many ways. I helped lead the university’s chapter of Earth Guardians, which is an international non-profit organization dedicated to empowering youth in the environmental justice movement. Our chapter at UNC focused on educating students and community members on how to reduce their impact on the planet. We also work with other on campus organizations and our local government to create positive change in our community. Through my work with Earth Guardians, I gained experience collaborating with diverse groups of people and the work made me understand the importance of inclusivity in addressing global issues. Additionally, I helped lead our Garden Club, which managed a small campus garden and produced fresh fruits and vegetables for some students. My time with the garden club strengthened my belief in hands-on community-driven change to foster inclusive environments.
My commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable world for everyone sparked my interest in the ADA, which led me to my current role.
As the ADA Services Coordinator, I am again part of the team providing information on the ADA to those in our region. In this role I manage the office at the University of Northern Colorado handling most of our physical products and mailing items to those who request them. I manage office administration tasks, support the research efforts of other RMADAC team members, and help with data management. I also assist with various projects to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.
Since joining the RMADAC I have gained a wide understanding of the ADA. My initial understanding of the ADA came from my experience with American Sign Language (ASL). During high school I took ASL classes and participated in the American Sign Language Honor Society. These classes not only taught me ASL but provided insights into the ADA and the disability rights movement. However, my current role has deepened my understanding, and I learn something new every day. I have already learned so much from my fellow team members who all have unique experiences with the ADA.
This week, I completed the training on Document Accessibility, which provided a wealth of information on making our work accessible to everyone. This training provided a detailed outline for formatting documents. I learned the importance of using headings, adding alt-text, and even the importance of color when creating documents to ensure that everyone can understand the information we provide.
I have also been listening to the Adventures in Accessibility podcast, which I highly recommend to anyone who is interested in learning more about how Americans adapt to life with their disabilities, and how they work to make the world a more inclusive place. Each episode not only gives insight to personal experiences of those living with disabilities but also discusses their knowledge and interactions with the ADA. I am a huge fan of podcasts and enjoy listening to them whenever I get the chance. Another podcast I enjoy is Life Kit. This podcast is a how-to podcast that talks about finances, health, personal growth and more. Some of their episodes include things like how to cut your grocery bill or how to prepare for a power outage. Each episode offers valuable insights into everyday challenges.
I am excited to be back with the RMADAC and contribute to providing the region with ADA information and guidance. I look forward to continuing to expand my knowledge of the ADA and finding new ways to support a more inclusive world and create systemic change.