Christopher Phillips Honored by USU

Congratulations to Christopher Phillips, who received the Community-Engaged Staff Award from Utah State University earlier this month! He is currently the associate director of the Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice’s WebAIM. He is also a technical assistance specialist for IDRPP’s National Center for Accessible Digital Educational Materials & Instruction (NCADEMI).

USU President Brad Mortensen presented the USU Presidential Awards for Community Engagement, honoring faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners who build mutually beneficial cooperation between USU and the greater community.  

Prior to coming to the Institute for Disability, Phillips was the digital accessibility officer for Utah State. He has previously worked as a special educator, instructional designer and in product management. His current roles continue to show his dedication to accessibility for all users of digital information. WebAIM, which stands for web accessibility in mind, empowers individuals and organizations all over the United States to create accessible content. NCADEMI supports state and local education leaders in delivering timely, accessible digital materials, removing barriers to learning for students with disabilities from preschool through graduation. WebAIM and NCADEMI are both part of the Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice within the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services.

Throughout his tenure at USU, Phillips has advocated for students with disabilities. In the rush to move instruction online during and after the pandemic, Phillips worked tirelessly to improve the experience for all students, including those with disabilities. 

He has led through example, encouragement and a willingness to support those who are trying to improve their own digital accessibility. In addition, he has led many webinars and conference sessions, authored and co-authored scholarly articles, and built important relationships.

 “Christopher is the model of a community-engaged staff member at USU,” said IDRPP Executive Director Matthew Wappett. “ From his work at the IDRPP to increase digital accessibility for people in our communities, to his volunteer work in the community, Christopher demonstrates genuine compassion and purpose.  It’s a privilege to have him on our team at the IDRPP and we congratulate him on this much deserved recognition.”