Changing Higher Ed

New Federal ADA Regulation Deadlines Are Approaching – Is Your Institution Ready?

Colleges and universities must now meet stricter ADA compliance requirements for websites and digital content or risk legal consequences, fines, and loss of federal funding. With the Department of Justice’s latest update to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), institutions must ensure all web content, mobile apps, and digital resources meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards. For many schools, the deadline is approaching fast.

In this episode of Changing Higher Ed®, host Dr. Drumm McNaughton has a conversation with Eugene Woo, CEO and founder of Venngage, to discuss what these new ADA regulations mean for higher education institutions and what they must do to comply.

Understanding the New ADA Requirements for Higher Ed

The Department of Justice’s update to Title II clarifies long-standing accessibility expectations, removing ambiguity about digital compliance. Now, all institutions receiving federal funds—including financial aid, research grants, or disaster relief—must ensure their online content adheres to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. AA

The key changes include:

• Explicit standards for websites and mobile apps – Digital accessibility is no longer optional.
• Clearer rules on compliance deadlines – Larger institutions (50,000+ students) must comply by April 2026, while smaller institutions have until April 2027.
• Greater enforcement risks – ADA lawsuits have historically driven accessibility improvements, and these new regulations are meant to make institutions proactive rather than reactive.

Woo explains that many universities operate hundreds, if not thousands, of websites across different departments and programs, making compliance a daunting task.

Why ADA Compliance Matters for Colleges and Universities Accessibility Isn’t Just a Legal Obligation—It’s a Universal Design Best Practice

Woo highlights that designing for accessibility benefits everyone, not just individuals with disabilities. Features like captions for videos were initially created for the hearing impaired but are now widely used by all viewers.

The Biggest Accessibility Challenges for Higher Ed Websites

According to WebAIM’s annual survey of the top one million websites, these are the most common accessibility issues:

• Missing alt text for images – Over 50% of homepage images lack descriptions, making content inaccessible to screen readers.
• Poor form accessibility – Online forms frequently lack proper labels, creating barriers for those using assistive technology.
• Non-descriptive links and buttons – Generic link text (e.g., “Click here”) makes navigation difficult for screen reader users.
• Inaccessible PDFs – Many course materials, syllabi, and administrative documents are in PDF format but lack proper tagging and readability.
• Color contrast issues – Up to 20% of men have some form of color blindness, yet many websites fail to meet the contrast requirements.

3. What Institutions Should Prioritize First

Given the scale of most universities’ digital footprints, Woo recommends:

• Conducting an ADA compliance audit to identify accessibility gaps.
• Prioritizing high-traffic pages and critical student services for remediation.
• Implementing universal design principles in new content to prevent future accessibility issues.

How Universities Can Ensure ADA Compliance Designating Leadership Responsibility

Presidents and institutional leaders must appoint a compliance officer or team responsible for ensuring accessibility across all digital platforms. Without clear ownership, accessibility efforts can fall through the cracks.

Leverage AI and Automated Accessibility Tools for ADA Compliance

Woo notes that institutions can use AI-powered tools to scan websites for accessibility violations and assist in remediation. Some platforms can even auto-correct PDFs and web pages to bring them closer to WCAG 2.1 standards.

Budgeting for Digital Accessibility Compliance

Compliance isn’t just a policy issue—it requires financial investment. Schools must allocate resources for accessibility audits, technology upgrades, and training to ensure long-term compliance.

Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders

1. Determine whether your institution must comply—and by when Institutions receiving any federal funding must meet the new standards, with large universities facing an April 2026 deadline.
2. Appoint a leader or team to oversee accessibility compliance Without clear accountability, compliance efforts will st...

In this Washington Update, we welcome back our frequent guest and public policy expert, Tom Netting, president of TEN Government Strategies, who joins us to discuss the latest developments in higher education policy coming out of Washington. McNaughton and Netting dive into the significant revisions to Title IX regulations, detailing the implications for higher education.

Podcast Overview: Revised Title IX Regulations: Unpacking the Changes

• Expansion of Definitions: The new regulations have broadened the definition of sexual harassment to encompass "unwelcome sex-based conduct," a shift from the previously narrower "severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive" standard.
• Adjustments in Adjudication Standards: Institutions are now mandated to use the "preponderance of the evidence" standard for determining cases of sexual harassment, moving away from the "clear and convincing" evidence standard unless absolutely necessary.
• Elimination of Live Hearings: The updated regulations remove the requirement for live hearings, aiming to reduce the potential retraumatization of victims during the adjudication process.

FAFSA Corrections and Their Impact on Enrollment

The discussion extends to the recent corrections made to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and their potential impact on student enrollment:

• Resolution of FAFSA Issues: After significant updates, the FAFSA system aims to facilitate smoother enrollment processes, which could help stabilize enrollment figures that were feared to decline due to previous errors.
• Congressional Oversight: The upcoming hearing with Secretary Cardona will focus on these FAFSA updates, reflecting the critical attention these corrections are receiving at the governmental level.

Developments in Student Loan Debt Relief

The episode also covers the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on student loan debt relief, emphasizing its importance and controversy:

• State Legal Challenges: The NPRM has faced lawsuits from 15 states, highlighting the contentious nature of the proposed student loan debt relief measures.
• Public Comment Period: Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the public comment process, open until May 17th, to help shape the outcome of these significant financial relief efforts.

Enhancements to Program Integrity and Institutional Accountability

Further discussion points include the negotiations affecting financial aid administration and compliance:

• Modifications in Resource Management: Proposals suggest that students might need to opt-in to receive resources such as textbooks and other materials, potentially changing how educational expenses are managed.
• Ongoing Negotiations: The complexities of these discussions could deeply influence how institutions administer student loans and maintain compliance with federal standards.

State Authorization and Accreditation for Online Education

The conversation also explores adjustments to state authorization and accreditation processes for online education providers:

• Regulatory Simplification: Proposed changes aim to simplify compliance across different states, potentially easing the operational burden on institutions offering online programs.

Three Key Takeaways for University Presidents and Boards

1. Immediate Review and Adjustment to Compliance Measures: With the new Title IX regulations set to take effect soon, institutions must review and possibly revise their current policies and procedures promptly.
2. Active Participation in Public Comment Opportunities: Leaders should ensure their institutions engage in the NPRM discussion, particularly around student loan debt relief, to influence policies that directly affect their students and operational structures.
3. Preparation for Upcoming Accreditation and Authorization Changes: Universities offering online courses must prepare for the expected changes in state authorization and accreditation standards, ensuring compliance and minimizing disruption to student offerings.

Read the transcript on our website →

About Our Podcast Guest

Tom Netting

Having spent all of his professional career devoted to higher education policy oversight and implementation, Tom Netting has an extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations governing all aspects of higher education. His considerable background and experience have afforded him the opportunity to view the development and implementation of federal higher education and workforce development policy in their entirety – including issues related to higher education and workforce development, health care, veteran ...

Faced with an overwhelming number of complex issues, the higher education sector must urgently develop and adopt innovative business models to transform itself into a more accessible, affordable, and future-proof system.

Dr. Melik Khoury, whose visionary approach and adaptation of the university business model has navigated his institution through tumultuous times and set a new standard for academic excellence and operational efficiency.

Dr. Drumm McNaughton welcomes Dr. Khoury back for part two of the series to share his insights on leading Unity Environmental University to unprecedented growth. With a background rich in guiding higher education institutions through periods of disruption, Dr. Khoury's tenure at Unity is marked by a significant increase in enrollment, substantial budget growth, halving tuition fees, and a debt reduction—all achieved amid the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Remember to check out part one where they cover the leadership approach, an agile enterprise model, Sustainable Education Business Units (SEBUs), and the non-traditional org chart.

Brief Show Overview Strategic Growth Through Focused Leadership:

· Unity Environmental University's transformation showcases the potential of focused leadership in academia. Under Dr. Khoury, the institution grew its student body from 500 to over 7,500 and increased its budget from $14 million to $58 million, demonstrating effective strategic growth and financial management.

Faculty Development and Specialization:

· A reimagined approach to faculty roles allows educators at Unity to specialize in their strengths, moving away from traditional, all-encompassing expectations. This strategy has led to increased job satisfaction and teaching effectiveness, highlighting the benefits of aligning roles with individual talents.

Academic Structure Innovation:

· Unity has redefined majors as interdisciplinary, encouraging a collaborative and flexible academic structure. This innovation reflects a commitment to preparing students for the complexities of the global job market, emphasizing adaptability and broad-based knowledge.

Efficiency in Governance:

· Implementing the RACI model streamlined Unity's decision-making processes, enhancing organizational efficiency. This shift illustrates the importance of clear roles and responsibilities in institutional governance.

Adapting Financial and Governance Models:

· The evolving landscape of higher education necessitates adaptive financial and governance models. Unity's approach serves as a case study in aligning institutional practices with contemporary challenges, ensuring sustainability and relevance.

Technological Advancements and Strategic Partnerships:

· Unity's integration of AI and virtual reality, along with forming strategic partnerships, positions the university at the cutting edge of educational innovation. These initiatives bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, enriching the student experience.

A Vision for Responsive Higher Education:

· Dr. Khoury advocates for a higher education system that is responsive to student and societal needs, challenging outdated structures and fostering a culture of innovation and flexibility.

Key Takeaways for Institutional Leaders:

1. Visionary Leadership: Unity's success underscores the impact of strategic, forward-thinking leadership in achieving institutional growth and financial health.

2. Faculty Empowerment: Empowering faculty to focus on their strengths enhances educational quality and job satisfaction, benefiting the entire academic community.

3. Innovative Academic and Governance Models: The necessity of revising academic and governance models to meet current and future challenges is critical for long-term success.

Final Thoughts

This episode sheds light on the actionable strategies and leadership philosophies behind Unity Environmental University's success. For leaders in higher education, these insights provide a roadmap for embracing change, prioritizing innovation, and achieving sustainable growth.

Be sure to listen to Part One of this Two-Part episode with Dr. Melik Khoury to get all the valuable and actionable insights.

Read the transcript on our website →

About Our Podcast Guest

Dr. Melik Peter Khoury is the 11th President and CEO of Unity Env...

Higher Education Expert Analysis of Anticipated Federal Policy Changes Under the Incoming Administration

Part 1 of this two-part podcast welcomes back Tom Netting, president of TEN Government Strategies and our Washington Update expert, to examine how the 2024 US elections will transform higher education. Drawing from over three decades of policy expertise on The Hill, Netting provides an insider's perspective on the anticipated changes a Trump administration and Republican Congress could bring to higher education.

The conversation unpacks major shifts within the Department of Education, from FAFSA modernization and Title IX overhaul to the future of student loan repayment. Netting addresses pressing questions about federal funding streams, potential departmental restructuring, and the impact of new IT security regulations. The discussion culminates in a penetrating analysis of how evolving ROI metrics could fundamentally alter higher education funding decisions.

Overview What Higher Education Leaders Will Gain from Listening to This Podcast

Higher Education Implications of the 2024 Election – Part 1

• The incoming presidential administration is expected to bring significant changes to the Department of Education, moving much faster than it did in the previous administration. Key personnel appointments are being announced quickly and are comprised of a more seasoned team.
• Netting doesn’t believe the Department of Education will be abolished but expects significant changes in how it is run, particularly with Linda McMahon as the nominee for Secretary of Education. Her background suggests the Department will be run more like a business with an emphasis on fiscal responsibility.
• Higher education leaders should be prepared to embrace potential changes, some of which might be positive. For example, the administration is expected to address the challenges with the FAFSA form and the administration of student financial aid, issues that have led to a decline in applications.

Federal Higher Education Reform: Key Policy Changes for 2025

Key areas of change within the Department of Education likely include:

• Title IX: The current Title IX regulations are facing legal challenges, with 26 states blockading the regulations as put forward and 24 states trying to implement them in the new iteration, which is causing chaos for institutions. The new administration may revisit these regulations.
• Gainful Employment and Financial Value Transparency Regulations: All institutions, not just proprietary or those subject to loss of eligibility, are supposed to submit information on all of their student cohorts to the Department of Education by January 15th. These regulations, requiring institutions to submit data on student cohorts and completers lists, are facing scrutiny and potential revision under the new administration.
• Income-Contingent Based Repayment Plans: The administration will need to address the upcoming deadline for student loan repayments and may revise existing income-driven repayment plans. Netting succinctly explains the difference in opinion between Republicans and Democrats on student loan repayment.
• Return on Investment (ROI) in Higher Education: The new administration is likely to focus on the ROI of higher education, potentially using a calculation similar to the one used for “exemplary institutions” under the previous administration. This could lead to an assessment of ROI across all sectors of higher education and influence funding decisions. The major difference, however, is that this new equation methodology recognizes a 10-year window, not a 3-year window of earnings potential.

Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders

1. Engage with Policymakers: Actively engaging with policymakers at both the state and federal levels. This involves understanding their priorities, building relationships, and advocating for policies that support higher education.
2. Prioritize Cybersecurity: The increasing focus on cybersecurity, particularly the NIST 800-171 regulations, makes cybersecurity a top priority. This includes investing in necessary infrastructure and personnel to ensure compliance and protect sensitive data.
3. Focus on Workforce Development: Place a high priority on workforce development and the need for higher education ins...

In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed podcast, host Drumm McNaughton is joined by Chris Gilmore, VP of Education Dynamics Enrollment Management. With extensive experience in online higher education and various leadership roles, Chris shares valuable insights into the evolving landscape of student demographics and the strategic approaches institutions need to adopt to effectively engage nontraditional students.

Key Discussion Points

The Changing Definition of Nontraditional Students

• Evolving Definitions: Chris elaborates on how the term "nontraditional students" has expanded beyond age differences to include individuals integrating education into their already full lives, such as younger online students or older adults managing work and family commitments.
• New Terminology: Emphasizing the evolution in terminology, Chris refers to nontraditional students as "nontraditional modern students" or simply "modern students," recognizing their diverse and dynamic educational needs and lifestyles.
• Demographic Shifts: The discussion highlights how these shifts demand flexible educational offerings that cater to diverse life situations, reflecting broader societal changes in work and lifestyle integration.

Adopting the Product and Consumer Mindset for Modern Student Enrollment

• Education as a Product: A significant shift towards viewing educational offerings as products designed to meet specific consumer needs, aligning with how modern students assess their educational investments.
• Consumer-Centric Approach: Emphasizing the need for higher education to adopt a consumer mindset, focusing on the value, return on investment, and outcomes that educational programs offer to students.

Institutions Must Provide Three Clearly Stated Value Propositions

• Career Advancement: Ensuring programs are directly aligned with the career aspirations of students, demonstrating how education can advance or change their professional trajectory.
• Speed to Completion: Highlighting the importance of offering programs that allow for quicker completion to accommodate the immediate needs and goals of students.
• Affordability: Making a strong case for the cost-effectiveness of programs, ensuring students understand the financial commitment and the expected return on their investment.

How to Design a Strategy for Marketing to Nontraditional Students

• Data-Driven Marketing: Utilizing data to understand where and how nontraditional students gather information and make educational decisions, particularly emphasizing the importance of a strong digital presence.
• Targeted Engagement: Tailoring marketing strategies to the unique needs and behaviors of nontraditional students, ensuring that messaging around flexibility, cost, and outcomes resonates clearly.

Shifts in Prospective Student Concerns Over the Last 20 Years

• Consistent Concerns: Despite changes in the education sector, nontraditional students consistently prioritize affordability, time commitments, and clear outcomes.
• Adapting Strategies: Higher education institutions must evolve their engagement and support strategies to remain responsive to these enduring concerns.

Moving Nontraditional Students from the Attraction Phase into the Recruitment and Enrollment Phase

• Enhancing Recruitment Tactics: Adapting recruitment processes to be more responsive and flexible, recognizing the pre-existing knowledge and research prospective students bring to their enrollment journey.
• Streamlining Processes: Emphasizing the importance of quick and efficient application and enrollment processes to meet the expectations of modern students for swift action.

Retention and Persistence of Nontraditional Modern Students Looks Different

• Unique Retention Challenges: Addressing the specific risk profiles and life circumstances of nontraditional students that affect their persistence and retention in educational programs.
• Support Systems Adaptation: Developing support systems that are flexible and responsive to the complex life dynamics of nontraditional students, facilitating their continued engagement and success.

Three Takeaways for University Presidents and Boards

• Recognizing Unique Needs: Understanding that nontraditional students require different engagement and retention strategies, which should be a critical element of institutional planning.
• Prioritizing Staff Training: Investing in training for staff to effectively interact with and support nontraditional students, enhancing the overall student experience.
• Utilizing Third-Party Services: Considering partnerships and collaborations to extend capabilities and reach in supporting nontraditional students effectively.

This epi...