Nick Baumgartner is the manager of Digital Accessibility Services at Ball State University and the President of Indiana Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD). Baumgartner attended the AHEAD conference not only as the President of the organization, but also as Ball State’s national delegate. Alongside Baumgartner were other Ball State faculty and staff who attended professional development training led by the US Office of Civil Rights and US Department of Justice. 

Baumgartner attended an accessibility audit Inservice at the conference to learn how to perform accessibility audits in digital environments. Baumgartner continues to advocate for students who have disabilities and technology that can be curated for those with disabilities.  

“Eighty-percent of adults with disabilities are either unemployed or underemployed, and no one is making a fuss,” says Baumgartner. 

His goal is to help those with disabilities strive in the real-world, especially in educational settings. 

“I do this work because disabled people deserve the same opportunities for empowerment as any group. Disability isn’t a bad word, and shouldn’t be seen negatively,” says Baumgartner. 

He continues to create a safe space for all students, and wants people with disabilities to feel empowered and welcomed at Ball State’s campus.