Alice Chapman (Session Chair)
Alice Chapman is an EDI practitioner, working previously in drama and applied theatre, facilitating workshops in education and community settings, and now specialising in digital accessibility and inclusion. Alice provides consultation to the digital learning team at Arden University where she is always looking for ways to enhance access through design and development of digital spaces. Her research focuses on how we can align digital accessibility compliance with creativity to embed access and inclusion into engaging online learning opportunities. Alice manages multiple disabilities herself and is passionate about giving opportunities for people to share their lived experiences. She’s excited to be able to lead the discussions for the ALTC24 keynote on inviting improvement through lived experience.
Hector Minto, Lead Technology Evangelist (Director), Microsoft
Hector Minto is a passionate and experienced leader in accessibility and assistive technology. He is currently the Director of Accessibility, Lead Technology Evangelist at Microsoft, where he drives and measures the education and adoption of Microsoft accessibility features and assistive technologies across customers, partners, and communities. He has worked at the cutting edge of accessibility for 25 years, specializing in alternative communication, home automation and computer access. He also contributes to government consultations on disability inclusion and showcases inclusive design, product accessibility, inclusive hiring practices and accessibility innovation. Hector Minto is a visionary and influential advocate for accessibility and disability rights.”
Lucy Woodcock, Senior Accessibility Consultant Team Lead, AbilityNet
Lucy Woodcock (AbilityNet) – Lucy is an experienced Accessibility and Usability Consultant. With a diverse background in education, psychology, and computing, Lucy brings a unique perspective to her work. She has worked as a systems analyst, a primary school teacher, and a freelance trainer specialising in neurodivergent support. Lucy’s expertise lies in user research, WCAG accessibility audits, and service development. Her passion centres around understanding and addressing the needs of neurodivergent users. She has recently played a key role in working with Edge Hill University on the Higher Education Maturity Model (HEMM).
Piers Wilkinson, Senior Policy and Campaigns Lead, Diversity and Ability
Piers Wilkinson is the Senior Policy and Campaigns Lead at Diversity and Ability (D&A), a member of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Disability Practitioners (NADP), and continues to support the Disabled Student Commitment after having been a part of its creation whilst a Commissioner for the Disabled Students’ Commission. Utilising their lived experience alongside their professional expertise, Piers’ work focuses on delivering sustainable and meaningful change to ensure all disabled people, whether in education, employment, or socially, can thrive rather than just survive.
Fawn Hunkins-Beckford, BSc Psychology student, Neurodiversity Network ambassador, Arden University