Alyas Thomas – Bridging Technology and Accessibility
When you meet Alyas Thomas, a junior majoring in software engineering at UC Irvine, you immediately sense his passion for using technology to make a difference. Alyas first encountered the concept of digital accessibility in the Stats 6 Introduction to Data Science class with Professor Mine Dogucu, who introduced students to the importance of writing alternative text for data graphs. “It was eye-opening,” Alyas recalls. “As a software engineering student, I was used to relying on visual cues. Learning how to describe graphs in alt text, even braille, made me realize there are whole other worlds in how people acquire information.” That moment sparked a new perspective and a desire to deepen Alyas’ work in accessibility.
Living with a family member with a disability, digital accessibility is a personal commitment beyond interest for Alyas. He is interested in how software can break down barriers and create equitable access for all, which motivated him to join the Digital Accessibility Student Help (DASH) team to help faculty transform their courses to be accessible for all students. The opportunity combined his interest in improving accessibility with a chance to strengthen his technical skills in web development. Since Spring 2025, he has consulted with faculty, updated their courses for accessibility, and presented at the accessibility workshops.
Beyond technical growth, Alyas values how DASH has strengthened his confidence in communication and public speaking through faculty consultations and presentations. “Those soft skills will carry over into everything I do,” he says. Alyas is excited to keep building connections across campus. “I want to meet new people, make new connections, and keep growing. Accessibility isn’t just about compliance but equity.
Looking ahead, Alyas hopes DASH continues to be a strong resource for faculty at UC Irvine, especially with the ADA Title II compliance deadline of April 24, 2026, on the horizon. “I sincerely hope every course offered at UC Irvine will be accessible by then. Accessibility isn’t just about compliance but equity. I’m proud to be a DASH member and contribute to that mission,” he says with determination.
About the Author
Megan Linos
Director of Digital and Online Teaching
Megan Linos is the Director of Learning Experience Design and Online Education at UC Irvine’s Division of Teaching Excellence and Innovation. She has a proven track record in cultivating faculty learning communities, advancing teaching through technology, and engaging students with digital active learning strategies. A strong advocate for inclusive teaching, she co-developed UC Irvine’s Inclusive Teaching Institute with Professor David Trend and others. In spring 2025, she launched the Digital Accessibility Student Help (DASH) team to support accessible teaching across campus. Megan’s leadership has been recognized with honors including the 2020 Dynamic Womxn of UCI Spotlight Award.
