Chapter 2: Navigating Buy-In: Implementing a University-Wide Accessibility Initiative

Mid-Area College (MAC) is a university located in the southern region of the United States of America. The mission of MAC is to provide educational opportunities which support the local and state economy by preparing the residents of the state with academic programs designed to bolster the economy and meet the needs of the local community and region. Situated in a suburban area, MAC is formally considered to be a regional, comprehensive liberal arts institution, but most of the students have local or community-based ties.

MAC offers 33 bachelor-level degrees (BS and BA) as well as 22 graduate-level degrees (MS, MA, MEd). MAC enrolls approximately 10,000 students, with around 80% undergraduate students and 20% graduate students. Of these students, about 85% are considered in-state residents with 15% out-of-state residents. While MAC is near a military base, militaryrelated and other adult learners only make-up about 8% of the student population, leaving over 90% of the students to be considered “traditional” students, aged 18–25. The reputation of MAC in local community is very high, with many locals as alumni and regular supporters. Across the state and region, it is frequently referred to as a “good but not great” school with high aspirations for the future.