Celebrating 25 Years of UsableNet on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)
This year marks UsableNet's 25th anniversary—and we're kicking off the celebration on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) by highlighting the people who make digital inclusion possible.
For many on our team, accessibility isn't just work. It's something they believe in—something they live. In the videos below, our colleagues share what accessibility means to them and the moments that have shaped their perspective.
These reflections show that while accessibility often starts with compliance, its true purpose is connection, usability, and equity.
Explore more at our 25th Anniversary Page.
"The work that I do has an impact on not just me, but people like myself. That's powerful."
Joseph DiNero, Head of our Digital Accessibility Testing Team at UsableNet and Assistant Program Director of Assistive Technology Services and Business Outreach at Helen Keller Services for the Blind, explains what improving websites he once couldn't use himself is like.
"It reminded me that the work we do isn't just about audits or legal risk. It's about people."
Danielle Kaur, Senior Business Development Representative, shares how Joe's live screen reader demo helped her connect accessibility theory with real-world usability challenges.
"Seeing the connection between our work and how it applies to real users was special."
Darcy Cottrell, Vice President of Account Management, recalls a meaningful on-site training that shifted how a client approached accessibility.
"These tools weren't nice to haves—they were lifelines."
Jennifer Guajardo, Account Executive, reflects on how observing assistive technology in action changed how she advocates for digital inclusion with clients.
"The world is going to work better for all of us when everyone's included."
CJ Harris, UsableNet's Director of Engineering, shares how the digital landscape has evolved in the 12 years he's been with the company, and why inclusive design still requires intentional work.
“It’s really comforting to be part of a team that’s solving real issues.”
Lillian Chukwueze, Sales Development Representative, shares why joining a mission-driven company was meaningful—and how digital accessibility connects to something bigger: compassion, understanding, and inclusion.
The Work Is Personal—And It's Just Getting Started
Every voice here reflects a different journey, but all point to the same truth: digital inclusion is a shared responsibility. It requires empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to creating experiences for everyone.
Join us in celebrating 25 years of expertise- supporting your accessibility journey.
Want more perspectives? Read our second blog in the series, where team members reflect on how accessibility has evolved—and what it takes to move forward.
