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Western Regional Accessible Proctoring Conference (August 12-13, 2024)

Registration

Register now, pay later! Payment is not due until July 5th.

Registration Type Registration Fee Dates
Early Bird $200 March 27 - June 28
Regular $250 June 29 - August 2
Register Today

Schedule

Monday, August 12, 2024

  • 7:30 – 8:30 AM Registration
  • 8:00 – 9:00 AM - Breakfast & Conference Opening
  • 9:15 – 10:30 AM - Concurrent Session 1
  • 10:45 AM -12:15 PM - Concurrent Session 2
  • 12:30 – 1:30 PM - Lunch
  • 1:45 – 3:00 PM - Concurrent Session 3
  • 3:15 – 4:30 PM - Concurrent Session 4

Tuesday, August 13, 2024

  • 7:30 - 8:30 AM - Breakfast
  • 8:30 - 9:30 AM - Keynote
  • 9:45 -10:30 AM - Workshop Session 1
  • 10:45 AM - 11:30 AM - Workshop Session 2
  • 11:45 PM - 12:45 PM - Lunch
  • 1:00 - 2:00 PM - Planetarium/Adaptive Sports Program/TC Tours
  • 2:15 - 3:15 PM - Planetarium/Adaptive Sports Program/TC Tours
  • 3:30 - 4:30 PM – Capnote Session

Speaker Profiles

Paul Grossman, J.D.
Retired, Chief Regional Civil Rights Attorney
U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights

Paul Grossman is a college drop-out who subsequently earned his JD, with highest honors at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Paul had similar academic success studying Philosophy of Law at Oxford University, England. Paul is currently a member of the California Bar.

For over 30 years, Paul served as the Chief Regional Attorney for the US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in San Francisco. Paul has recently retired from 22 years of teaching Disability Law at Hasting College of Law, University of California. Paul is a much sought-after keynote speaker at education and law conferences, including NAADAC, AHEAD, Hastings College of Law, UC Berkeley School of Law, Stanford and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Paul also regularly provides legal and best practice advice to universities including Stanford University and the California Community College System.

Through AHEAD and Carolina Academic Press, Paul publishes and annually updates, The Law of Disability Discrimination for Higher Education Professionals.

Paul is an individual with multiple disabilities including dyslexia, diabetes, and stage one cancer. These disabilities, Paul’s teaching experiences during which he developed a robust set of universal design practices, and his participation in the unfolding intersectional civil rights in America enable to him to provide every audience with unique insights into the opportunities presented for teaching and retaining to graduation all students when educating students with disabilities in America’s universities.

Carlos Nevarez, Ph.D.
Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
California State University, Sacramento

Dr. Carlos Nevarez is interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs and a Professor of Education at California State University, Sacramento. Appointed in fall 2021, as interim Provost he provides leadership for the Division of Academic Affairs, including faculty and staff in all Colleges, the University Library, and several offices that support students as well as the Sacramento region. The Division of Academic Affairs also includes International Programs and Global Engagement, the Offices of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies, the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development, the Office of Faculty Advancement, the Center for Teaching and Learning, the Office of Academic Excellence, and the Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Dr. Nevarez received his Ph.D. from Arizona State University in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies where he was awarded the Kellogg Foundation Doctoral Fellowship. He has served as Director of the doctoral program in Educational Leadership and Chair of the Graduate and Professional Studies branch in the College of Education at Sacramento State. Dr. Nevarez is passionate about studying leadership and organizational behavior and the role leaders play in advancing student success. Dr. Nevarez has authored four books on community college leadership and is currently working on a fifth book with an emphasis on Human Resources in Community Colleges. His productivity with this line of scholarship has afforded him regular opportunities to share his research with regional, state, national, and international audiences.

Mary Lee Vance, Ph.D.
Director of the Disability Access Center
California State University, Sacramento

Mary Lee Vance, Ph.D. is currently the Director of the Disability Access Center, Testing Center, Disability Cultural Center and Assistive Technology Lab at California State University Sacramento, where she also served as interim Director for the Office of Equal Opportunity, Title IX and Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation (DHR). She has taught undergraduate and graduate courses, including disability studies, and has successfully written federal grants, as well as published in referred journals, books, and periodicals. She serves as a reviewer for the AHEAD and NACADA refereed journals and has for over 16 years taught disability law classes and seminars with Grossman, Axelrod and Vance Consulting. She is the editor of DISABLED Faculty and Staff in a Disabling Society: Multiple Perspectives in Higher Education; and co-editor of Beyond the Americans with Disabilities Act: Proactively Planning for Accessible Post-Secondary Educational Offerings Now and into the Future; Advising Students with Disabilities: Developing Universal Success; Laws, Policies and Processes: Tools for Postsecondary Student Accommodation, and DISABLED Faculty and Staff: Intersecting Identities in Higher Education.

Ritu Sharma, Ph.D.
Faculty of School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies
Purdue University

A multi-award winner and dedicated educator at Purdue University. Through her education and vast work experience, she has integrated technology skills and mentored professionals to develop helpful heutagogy and accelerate students' understanding as well as boost results. She is the President of the Global Indigenous People Leadership Team. Also, she is a board member for NOSS. She led the NSCS adviser for the Purdue Chapter and won the Advisor of the Year award. She was honored as the Top Educators in Ohio and is the recipient of numerous excellence awards. Dr. Sharma is working on her forthcoming book, Quest for Self.

Corinne Rowland, Ed.D.
Universal Design for Learning Lead
California State University, Sacramento

As the Graduate Program Faculty Coordinator at Sacramento State, I am responsible for developing the curriculum and overseeing the Universal Design for eLearning graduate program. With over 20 years of experience in California's higher education system, spanning its three public segments, I possess a profound understanding of its intricacies and use this knowledge to support faculty and contribute to student success. As an experienced Instructional Designer of online learning, I advocate for student equity and provide training and consultations in the development of accessible and inclusive course materials and UDL.

Rahsaan Ellison-Johnson, M.A.
Associate Director of the Disability Access Center
California State University, Sacramento

Rahsaan Ellison-Johnson currently serves as Associate Director of the Disability Access Center at CSUS. He received his B.A. in English with a minor in Ethnic Studies from University of the Pacific in Stockton CA. As an undergraduate student, Rahsaan was involved with several social justice student groups and identified his career path in Student Affairs. Rahsaan received his M.A. in Education from University of the Pacific and acquired experience in Student Affairs in his roles as a Diversity Coordinator and Safe Zone Program Assistant in Multicultural Affairs, and as a Disability Service Provider, Academic Coach, Coordinator, and Assistant Director of Services for Students with Disabilities.

Alan Dixon-Hurd, M.Ed.
Assistant Director of the Disability Access Center
California State University, Sacramento

Alan Dixon-Hurd holds the position of Assistant Director for Exam Proctoring Services at California State University, Sacramento. In this role, he assumes the responsibility of overseeing the comprehensive planning, management, and supervision of various national, state, and local testing programs. These programs are essential for processes such as admission, placement, certification, and graduation requirements. Additionally, Alan provides direct oversight for accommodated, make-up, correspondence, Pearson VUE, and TEAS testing programs.

Before joining the team at Sac State, Alan served as a manager at Pearson VUE. During his tenure there, he held the responsibility of overseeing multiple test centers located in Northern California. Alan's expertise and experience in the field of exam proctoring and testing management make him a valuable asset to the California State University, Sacramento community.

Michael Smith
Testing Coordinator
California State University, Sacramento

Michael Smith serves as the Testing Coordinator at California State University, Sacramento.

Michael has served in the disability services environment for close to ten years now, he plays a crucial part in facilitating the efficient and accurate administration of accommodated exams for students with disabilities.

Michael is responsible for coordinating the logistics of testing programs, ensuring proper test security measures, and managing the scheduling and registration processes. He works closely with students, faculty, and staff to provide support and guidance related to testing procedures and accommodations.

Nikolas Soza
Assistive Technology Lab Lead and IT Specialist
California State University, Sacramento

Nikolas Soza works as the Assistive Technology Lab Lead and IT specialist for the Disability Access Center at California State University, Sacramento. With nearly a decade of experience in the IT field, Nikolas brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for leveraging technology to empower students with the tools they need to thrive. His commitment to innovation fuels his role in spearheading the lab's continuous advancements and ensuring cutting-edge solutions are readily available. As an alumnus of California State University, Sacramento, Nikolas possesses a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by students in higher education. His presence in both the IT and disability access spaces provides a distinct vantage point, enabling him to revolutionize student experiences by harnessing the power of technology. Nikolas is an alumnus of California State University, Sacramento and has been in the greater Sacramento Area since 2009.

Arash Borhany, M.A.
Assistive Technology Analyst
California State University, Sacramento

Arash Borhany holds the position of Assistive Technology Analyst at California State University, Sacramento. In this role, he manages the Assistive Technology Lab and Disability Culture Center, including the Sensory room users and activities. In this role, he is responsible for and supervises the daily activities at the lab for all assistive technology tools/software and training needs, such as text-to-speech, speech-to-text platforms, license allocations, alternate formats, document conversion, etc. In addition, he is responsible for coordinating with the Department of Rehab representatives housed at ATL and serving Sac State students and staff members. During the last seven years, Arash held multiple positions at Sac State. Before the ATL position, Arash was the TRiO Coordinator assisting the department in running SSS TRiO federal program.

William DeGraffenreid, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President for Faculty Affairs & Professor of Physics
California State University, Channel Islands & California State University, Sacramento

Bill DeGraffenreid has recently returned to the faculty at Sac State as a Professor of Physics after spending the last seven years rotating through a series of interim administrative appointments. He most recently served as the Interim Associate Vice President for Faculty Affairs, Success, and Equity at CSU Channel Islands (2022-24) and at Sacramento State he served as Interim AVP for Research (2017-18), Special Assistant to the President (2018-19), and Interim Vice Provost for Faculty Success (2019-22). He joined the Department of Physics and Astronomy as an assistant professor in 2002 and served as its chair from 2011-18. He is Made in the CSU, having earned his BS in Physics from Cal Poly Pomona.

Denise Guerrero, CI & CT
Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services Coordinator
California State University, Sacramento

Denise Guerrero currently serves as the Communication Access Coordinator for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students at California State University, Sacramento. In this role, she is responsible for coordinating interpreters and captioners, as well as providing assistive listening devices for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students’ academic accommodations. Working collaboratively with students, faculty and staff communication access is vital to student success.

Prior to joining the team at Sac State full time, Denise occupied this same position part-time. In addition, she worked as an interpreter coordinator for a local Sacramento interpreting agency for 15 years. With over 25 years’ experience as coordinator, certified sign language interpreter, a part-time instructor for American River College’s interpreter training program, Denise brings a wealth of knowledge working with and providing services for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students.

Sessions

Stories From the Trenches

William DeGraffenreid, Ph.D., Interim Associate Vice President for Faculty Affairs, California State University, Channel Islands

Hear about, and share, stories from the trenches about testing and other accommodations gone awry. With five years of experience running Faculty Affairs and seven years as Department Chair, I have had the chance to see how things can go remarkably well, and horribly wrong in the space of providing accommodations to students. I will share some takeaways from a faculty member as well as from an administrator perspective that can help to smooth over the rough patches.

Empowering Inclusive Education: Leveraging Accessibility Tools in Instructional Materials

Corinne Rowland, Universal Design for Learning Lead, California State University, Sacramento

This presentation advocates for the strategic utilization of accessibility tools like Microsoft Accessibility Checkers, Canvas LMS features, and Ally to ensure that test proctoring using digital instructional materials in both online and in-person settings are accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. The focus is on empowering faculty with the knowledge and tools needed to create inclusive learning experiences. Microsoft Accessibility Checkers and Canvas LMS offer robust features to evaluate and enhance the accessibility of digital course content. These tools can identify potential barriers and provide guidance on how to improve accessibility, such as ensuring proper document structure, alt text for images, and readable color contrast. Ally, a powerful accessibility tool integrated into Canvas LMS, further enhances accessibility by automatically checking uploaded files for issues and providing alternative formats like audio versions and tagged PDFs. This ensures that students with diverse needs, such as visually impaired or screen reader users, can access course materials effectively. The Ally feature is available in the Quizzes tool, where faculty can utilize it to assess the accessibility of Quiz instructions and question content. By leveraging these accessibility tools, instructors can: • Ensure that instructional materials meet accessibility standards, benefiting all students, including those with disabilities. • Address diverse accessibility needs by offering alternative formats for exam materials, extended time, study materials, and other course content. • Foster a more inclusive learning environment where every student can participate fully and succeed. Attendees will gain: • Practical insights into using Microsoft Accessibility Checkers and Canvas LMS features to enhance accessibility. • Strategies for integrating Ally during course design to provide alternative formats and improve accessibility. • Data showcasing the positive impact of Ally on student engagement. This presentation aims to share how faculty can proactively address accessibility in their instructional materials, leading to a more inclusive and equitable learning experience for all students.

Pioneering Proctoring

Ritu Sharma, Ph.D. Faculty of School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies, Purdue University

The seismic impact of assessments can be challenging for some students, and proctors play a pivotal role in guiding them through the critical phase to foster thriving outcomes with the help of technology. As it continues to shape the landscape of higher education, administrators are faced with both exciting opportunities and complex challenges in how to assess student learning. Yet, technologies have also generated controversy, confusion, media interest, and even legal action (Mullin, 2021). Emerging online learning and remote assessment methods pave way to ensure every student has equal access and support. This abstract delves into the innovative concept of pioneering proctoring, where accessibility tools are seamlessly integrated into higher education assessments. By harnessing the power of cutting-edge technologies and progressive teaching methods, educators can craft assessment environments that cater to the diverse needs of learners while upholding academic integrity. Dr. Walvoord’s study (2010) makes assessment manageable and beneficial. Evidence based studies advocate for the trailblazing transformative impact of accessible proctoring. Also, it underscores high impact strategies to enhance student engagement, improve learning outcomes, and advance educational equity. Ultimately, it contributes to students journey from mess to masterpiece. References Mullin, J. (2021, February 23). Student surveillance vendor Proctorio files SLAPP lawsuit to silence A Critic. Electronic Frontier Foundation. Walvoord, B.E. (2010). Assessment clear and simple: a practical guide for institutions, departments, and general education

Conflict in the Testing Center: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions

Alan Dixon-Hurd, M.Ed., Assistant Director of the Disability Access Center, California State University, Sacramento

In this presentation, we will examine the causes and consequences of conflict in the testing center. We will begin by discussing the various sources of conflict that arise in testing centers, including conflicts between students, conflicts between students and staff, and conflicts between staff members and professors. We will then explore the impact of these conflicts on the testing environment and the well-being of students and staff. Finally, we will provide strategies for preventing and resolving conflicts in the testing center, including communication techniques, conflict resolution skills, and mediation. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how to create a positive and productive testing environment.

Exam Accommodations…Why? Ensuring Accessibility in Academic, Certification, and Licensure Examinations

Rahsaan Ellison-Johnson, M.A., Associate Director of the Disability Access Center, California State University, Sacramento

As exam proctoring professionals, it is important understand how to effectively provide accommodations to disabled examinees. It is equally important to understand why such accommodations are administered, and how examinees are approved for academic and exam accommodations. Administering approved accommodations for examinees with disabilities is an essential function for most exam proctoring centers. Exam proctoring centers that only proctor accommodated exams are decreasing, whereas centers that proctor both non-accommodated exams and accommodated exams are increasing. This trend is due to budgetary and other resource driven needs for efficiencies and to refrain from further perpetuating segregated systems for disabled examinees.

As a result of attending this session you will understand and be able to communicate to others:

  • Who is eligible for Exam Accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the ADA and ADA Amendment Act.
  • Why some examinees with disabilities are approved for adjustments to the standard exam protocols.
  • The process in which such examinees engage to request adjustments to the standard exam protocols.

Testing Center Technology: Creating an Inclusive & Accessible Environment through Technology

Nikolas Soza, Disability Access Center Technology Specialist, California State University, Sacramento

The integration of technology within a Testing Center presents a unique opportunity to foster inclusivity and accessibility for all individuals that come through. This presentation will explore the innovative low- & high-tech options to create an environment that accommodates diverse needs and ensures equitable testing experiences

Key areas of discussion include:

  • Assistive Technologies (Screen readers, STT, TTS, CCTV, etc)
  • Adaptive technologies (Ergonomic keyboard, adjustable desk/lighting, etc)
  • Low Tech Options (Ear plugs, sound machines, speech amplification, etc)
  • Through real-work examples and best practices, this presentation aims to empower testing center admins, educators, and technology professionals to collaborate in the pursuit of creating truly inclusive and accessible testing environments that upload the principles of equity and diversity.

Last Minute Conversion Test Materials Using Technology

Arash Borhany, M.A., ATL Services Analyst, California State University, California

In today’s fast-paced academic environment, educators and institutions often face the challenge of preparing test materials at the last minute. Using various technology tools, including AI, can rapidly convert and adapt test materials to suit diverse student needs, especially under tight deadlines. Utilizing technology, machine learning algorithms, and adding human quality control at the end could impact the outcomes.

Key areas of discussion include:

  • Techniques for using multiple platforms and AI to prepare and modify test materials quickly.
  • Approaches to ensure test materials are compliant with educational and accessibility standards.
  • Implementing technology solutions effectively in urgent academic scenarios.

Roundtable Discussion: Exploring the Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Disability in Accessible Testing

Michael Smith, Testing Coordinator, California State University Sacramento

Join us for an engaging roundtable discussion where experts and practitioners will explore the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and disability in the context of accessible testing. This interactive session aims to facilitate an open dialogue on the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in ensuring equitable access to testing for individuals with disabilities. Participants will have the opportunity to share insights, experiences, and best practices, as well as discuss potential applications and future directions for AI-driven accessibility solutions.

Navigating the Legal and Ethical Landscape of Accessibility in Academic Testing

Mary Lee Vance, Ph.D., Director of the Disability Access Center, California State University, Sacramento

Accessibility is a critical issue in academic testing, as it impacts the ability of individuals with disabilities to access and engage with educational opportunities. This session will explore the legal and ethical considerations that underpin accessibility in academic testing, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant legislation. We will also delve into ethical considerations surrounding the design, implementation, and evaluation of accessible testing protocols, with a focus on promoting equity and inclusion for all students. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the legal and ethical complexities of accessibility in academic testing, as well as practical strategies for promoting accessibility and inclusion in their own testing practices.

Accommodating Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students in Testing Environments

Denise Guerrero, Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services Coordinator, CI & CT, California State University, Sacramento

This workshop is an introduction to working with and providing accommodations to Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing students. This includes providing resources/tips to enhance awareness of Deaf culture, coordinating interpreter and captioners, FM systems, captioned services and testing accommodations.

Workshops

Ensuring Accessibility: Remediating Electronic Documents for Testing Centers

Presented by Nikolas Soza, DAC Technology Specialist and Arash Borhany, ATL Services Analyst, California State University, Sacramento.

This workshop will provide an in-depth understanding of how to remediate electronic documents to ensure accessibility in testing centers. Participants will learn the best practices and techniques for making documents compliant with accessibility standards, ensuring that all students, including those with disabilities, have equal access to testing materials.

Mastering Testing Roster Management: Strategies, Best Practices, and Practical Tips

Presented by George Melendy, Account Manager and Mary Baddam, Operation and Business Development Manager, TechnoPro Computer Solutions, Inc.

This workshop will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively manage a testing roster. It will cover proven strategies, best practices, and practical tips to streamline the process, ensuring smooth and efficient operations in testing centers.

Empowering Success: Supporting Low Vision Students in Testing Environments

Presented by Alan Dixon-Hurd, Assistant Director of the Disability Access Center and Michael Smith, Testing Coordinator, California State University, Sacramento.

This workshop aims to equip testing center staff with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively support low vision students during examinations. Participants will learn about the unique needs of low vision students, explore assistive technology options, and gain practical strategies for creating an inclusive testing environment.

Planetarium Show

This fantastic sensory experience is a 42-minute long show whose audio is the full ten-track album "The Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd - nothing more, and certainly nothing less. The music is accompanied by visuals for each track, which each have a different theme; some futuristically looking forward and some a retro acknowledgment to Pink Floyd’s visual history, all relating to a time and space experience.

Adaptive Sports Program

Participants will learn more about activities that foster communication and physical body awareness. They will discover the holistic benefits of Adaptive Sports, extending beyond the physical realm to positively impact mental wellness and self-esteem among all disabled students.

Hotels

Hampton Inn and Suites at CSUS

Hampton Inn and Suites at CSUS

1875 65th St
Sacramento, CA 95819
Phone: 916-451-1135

The Hampton Inn and Suites at CSUS is the newest and only hotel adjacent to the Sacramento State campus. Conveniently located at the US-50 and 65th St. interchange and within walking distance to campus, public transportation, shops and eateries. Just 25 minutes from the Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Enjoy our outdoor pool, fitness center, free WiFi and hot breakfast.

Larkspur Landing

Larkspur Landing

555 Howe Avenue
Sacramento, CA
Phone: 916-646-1212

Larkspur Landing is located just three blocks from the Sac State campus. An all-suite hotel that is perfect for today's business & leisure traveler. Featuring Studio, One Bedroom & Double Bedded Suites. Each suite provides guests with fully equipped kitchens complete with stove, microwave, dishwasher and refrigerator with icemaker, toaster, coffee maker, cookware and dishware. A comfortable work environment is provided with two separate phone lines with personalized Voice Mail, High Speed Internet Access capability. For the guest's enjoyment, CD players, video cassette players, and video game controllers are available in each room. We also have the state of the art exercise room with an in-ground spa. We supply a free Laundry Room and offer a free daily continental breakfast. Of course don't forget about our fresh baked cookies Sunday through Thursday! We are conveniently located near great restaurants, upscale shopping, California State University, and the downtown area.

Marriott - Rancho Cordova

Marriott - Rancho Cordova

11211 Point East Drive
Rancho Cordova, CA
Phone: 916-638-1100

The Sacramento Marriott offers state-of-the-art meeting space, elegant guest rooms with a king or two queen beds, Starbucks, award-winning restaurant, remodeled fitness room and outdoor pool & spa. Our elegant Four-Diamond property is a favorite location for collegiate teams, families, and supporters. The hotel is conveniently located immediately off Highway 50 & Sunrise Blvd. in Rancho Cordova and just 10 minutes from Sacramento State.

Courtyard Sacramento Midtown

Courtyard Sacramento Midtown

4422 Y Street
Sacramento, CA
Phone: 916-455-6800

At Courtyard we have everything you need to move forward. Our hotel features 139 guest rooms, each equipped with free Wi-Fi, 43" Smart TVs, microwaves, mini refrigerator and tea/coffee makers. Extended stay suites are also available, offering full kitchens and extra space. The hotel is conveniently located immediately off Highway 50 and just 12 minutes from Sacramento State.

Sponsors

ClockWork is the leading provider of digital platform solutions that meets the needs of various student service departments like Disability/Accessibility Support Services, Counseling Services, Veterans Resource Centers, Academic Advising, and others.