Illinois e-News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

October 8, 2026

CHICAGO – The Accessibility Committee for Employees with Disabilities (ACED) has named the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) its Outstanding Agency of the Year, recognizing DoIT’s leadership and commitment to advancing digital accessibility across state government.

Throughout the year, DoIT’s digital accessibility team has expanded statewide accessibility efforts by producing new guides and training, improving compliance tracking, and raising awareness of information accessibility. These initiatives support digital inclusion across state government and help ensure that technology is usable by employees and residents with disabilities.

ACED presented the award Thursday during its annual recognition event in Chicago. Representatives from DoIT attended the ceremony, including Chief Information Accessibility Officer Mike Scott, also a member of ACED, and Chief Information Officer supporting the Illinois Department of Human Rights Minesh Thakkar.

“We appreciate this recognition and our partnership with ACED in promoting information accessibility,” said Mike Scott. “Accessibility is a shared effort, and DoIT is committed to providing the tools and assistance agencies need to meet state and federal requirements to ensure our technology works for everyone.” 

Continuing its commitment to accessibility, DoIT will host a webinar, “Accessibility Awareness Day Part 2: Countdown to Compliance,” on October 28 at 10:00 a.m. The webinar, open to all State of Illinois employees, will provide updates on statewide progress and an outline of what is still to be done to be ready for the upcoming U.S. Department of Justice accessibility deadline.

ACED is a statutorily created interagency committee dedicated whose mission is to promote access, independence, and opportunity for State employees with disabilities.

For registration information and to learn more about DoIT’s ongoing accessibility work and available guidance, visit https://doit.illinois.gov/accessibility.