The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility (FSC) at Saint Mary’s University has launched a newly redesigned website, introducing a centralized accessibility hub designed to improve the user journey and simplify access to essential supports. While the FSC remains the core of SMU’s academic accessibility, the new site brings together accessibility-related resources across the university into one cohesive, intuitive space, ensuring students, faculty, and staff can easily find the information they need.
This project, made possible through donor funding, reflects Saint Mary’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and equitable education while advancing the FSC’s mission to integrate Universal Design principles across higher education. It also reinforces the university’s readiness to meet the standards outlined in the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act and aligns with Access by Design 2030.
“By prioritizing digital accessibility from the start, the redesign aligns with the FSC’s goal of creating barrier-free learning environments that benefit all students,” Kate McHugh, Manager of the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility, notes. “The project team worked diligently to meet or exceed WCAG 2.0 accessibility standards, achieving AA compliance wherever possible and reaching AAA in many components.”
Through user engagement sessions, including input from students, faculty, and staff, and comprehensive before-and-after digital accessibility audits, the project team worked to build a site that is intuitive, inclusive, intersectional, and aligned with accessibility best practices.
A user-centered approach to accessibility
The redesign process focused on improving the user experience by identifying pain points and making the site easier to navigate, more intuitive and more inclusive. Key enhancements include:
A streamlined, centralized hub where students can explore academic accommodations, assistive technology and other accessibility supports all in one place.
Enhanced digital accessibility features to ensure the site meets diverse user needs, removing barriers to accessing information.
A focus on reducing the 'unknown' for students by including clearer explanations of what to expect when accessing FSC services, from registering for accommodations to visiting the space in person. The site also reflects the warm and welcoming nature of the FSC team, ensuring students feel welcomed and supported from their first interaction.
Plain language and user-friendly content to ensure students, whether they are familiar with accessibility services or just beginning to explore their options, can easily discover supports and determine what accommodations or resources may be the right fit for them.
A dedicated faculty section to provide guidance on inclusive teaching and learning, academic accommodations and best practices for supporting students.
Creating a more inclusive digital experience
One of the key insights from the user consultation process was that many students who qualify for accommodations don’t always recognize that their learning challenges, health conditions, or disabilities make them eligible for support. The new site helps demystify accessibility services, offering clear explanations of who may qualify, what accommodations exist and how to access them.
Faculty can also benefit from the new Inclusive Teaching and Learning section, designed to foster collaboration in creating accessible learning environments. With resources, FAQs and guidance on implementing academic accommodations, the site equips faculty members with the tools they need to support students effectively.
A one-stop destination for accessibility at SMU
While a majority of accessibility services at SMU fall under the FSC services, the new website goes beyond academic accommodations to serve as a centralized hub for accessibility across the university. From information on built environment and digital accessibility, to news, events and student life, the site ensures that anyone seeking support and community can easily connect with resources.
Leading the way
With this launch, the Fred Smithers Centre is helping lead the way in creating a more accessible and equitable university experience. The new site is more than just an information hub; it’s a crucial progression toward a more inclusive Saint Mary’s, where accessibility is seamless and support is easy to find. It also establishes a strong foundation for future improvements, creating opportunities to apply the insights from this project more broadly across Saint Mary’s websites and digital communications.
“Enhancing digital accessibility is a pivotal step in our strategic plan to foster an inclusive and equitable educational environment at Saint Mary’s University," says President Robert Summerby-Murray.
“This new digital hub not only aligns with our commitment to accessibility and the goals outlined in Nova Scotia’s Access by Design 2030 plan, but it also exemplifies our dedication to integrating Universal Design principles across all facets of the university. By centralizing accessibility resources, we are making significant strides toward a seamless and supportive experience, positioning Saint Mary’s as a leader in digital accessibility within Atlantic Canada and beyond."
Explore the new Fred Smithers Centre website and let us know your thoughts! Spot an area for improvement or have other feedback? Let us know at studentcomms@smu.ca.
