UF Interim President Landry Promotes Accessibility Amid Faculty’s Call for Broader Vision
University of Florida Interim President Donald Landry has called on faculty members to prioritize accessibility in educational materials. This initiative highlights the university’s commitment to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The discussion took place during a Faculty Senate meeting held on January 22, 2026, at the J. Wayne Reitz Union in Gainesville, Florida.
Promoting Accessibility Standards
In his President’s Report, Landry focused on the importance of digital accessibility. He urged instructors to include captions and descriptive texts in their course materials and presentations. Although he acknowledged challenges in updating older recordings, he emphasized the need for future content to adhere to accessibility standards.
Landry reassured faculty that the university would collaborate with ADA compliance officers to clarify expectations regarding accessibility requirements. He indicated a two-year period, starting in April 2024, for faculty to ensure instructional materials meet ADA compliance.
Concerns Over H-1B Visa Policy
During the meeting, faculty members also expressed concerns related to immigration status. Interim Provost Joe Glover discussed H-1B visas, noting that the university does not anticipate issuing new visas in the upcoming year. A vote by the Board of Governors that could suspend H-1B visa issuance until 2027 looms next week.
Glover highlighted that, while UF had approved 253 H-1B visas in 2025, recent immigration policies would impact recruitment and hiring. Faculty member Eric Du raised concerns about inquiring whether candidates would require H-1B visas, leading to further discussions about possible restrictions.
Faculty Reactions to Landry’s Leadership
Although accessibility was the main theme of the meeting, faculty members sought broader input on the university’s mission and long-term goals. Some felt Landry’s report lacked clarity. Professor Emily Hinds expressed disappointment, stating that her questions went unanswered.
Conversely, Professor Hannah Vander Zanden noted Landry’s positive approach to supporting faculty as they work to enhance accessibility. Others, like Professor Pasha Agoes, hoped for more comprehensive insights regarding the university’s overall vision moving forward.
Discussion of Other Academic Changes
The meeting also addressed additional matters apart from accessibility. A proposal to close the Computer Science master’s program and the creation of a weekend track for the Master of Health Administration program were both passed by a significant majority.
With the emphasis on access and inclusion, the university continues to navigate the complexities of educational reform and faculty support in today’s changing academic landscape.
