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News
June Fireside: Milwaukee Conference!
Jun. 10, 2026
Join us for our next NAGW Fireside Chat! Registration is open to all. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. Conference registration is open, so reserve your seat today!
Presenters: NAGW Board
Date and Time: Thursday, June 25, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. CT
Join government web professionals from across the country for four days of inspiration, innovation, and practical insight along the shores of the Great Lakes.
Whether you are a web developer, content strategist, digital communicator, or technology leader, this is your chance to sharpen your skills, connect with peers, and bring home ideas you can start using right away.
Conference when: October 6-9, 2026
Conference where: Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
Conference why: Because we're better together sharing lessons and wisdom and community in our specialized industry niche.
Join your NAGW board of directors as we discuss all the great things we have planned and in the works for the highlight event of year. This fireside chat is open to everyone who wants an insider look into what's in store. Bring your questions, curiosity, and excitement!
June Webinar: Election Crisis Averted
Jun. 10, 2026
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenters: Robert Scott, Broward County Supervisor of Elections, Broward County, FL Christa Watson, Director of Marketing - Government, Pantheon Josh Koenig, Co-Founder, Senior Vice President - Marketing, Pantheon Fernando Chavez, VP of Solutions and Strategy, KWALL
Date and Time: Tuesday, June 30, 12-1 p.m. CT
Election Crisis Averted
How the Broward County Web Team Saved and Secured an Election with Pantheon
Join Pantheon, KWALL, and the Broward County Elections teams as we explore how enterprise-grade web infrastructure transformed a crisis into a success story, ensuring voters had uninterrupted access to essential election information during the 2024 presidential election.
Gain insights from election technology and infrastructure experts to learn how modern web architecture is helping election officials serve their communities when it matters most.
In this webinar, we will explore:
Crisis response: How we rapidly assessed the scope and urgency of Broward County's website failures during early voting
The “code-red” migration: When democracy can't wait, how we executed a seamless transition to a stable platform
Performance under pressure: How Pantheon's platform handled massive traffic spikes during the presidential election without a single outage
About KWALL: Web Agency, partner of Pantheon
KWALL is where colleges and universities turn when they need Web capabilities that directly impact enrollment, student retention, and reputation.
With years of digital expertise KWALL's team has unmatched capabilities in web design and development. We specialize in building or migrating CMS based sites that empower the content authors to create the best digital sites possible.
We provide sites based on the following Open Source Options on Pantheon:
Drupal 9+
Wordpress
Contact KWALL if you need a site migrated, improved, or customized.
About Pantheon
Pantheon is the WebOps platform built for state and local government agencies that demand zero downtime, especially during critical emergencies. Providing the foundational infrastructure, governance, and workflows required to keep WordPress, Drupal, and Next.js sites fast, secure, and resilient, Pantheon empowers public sector web teams to move quickly without risking stability.
With Pantheon, agencies get the agility to deploy fast and the control to remain strictly compliant—ensuring vital public services stay always-on and always-available.
Learn more:Discover what resilient government web operations look like atpantheon.io.
About Broward County
State: FL
Pop: ~2M
Located in southeastern Florida, Broward County is the second most populous county in the state and a key part of the Miami metropolitan area. Its county seat and largest city is Fort Lauderdale, known for its extensive canal system which has earned it the nickname "Venice of America." The county boasts a diverse economy driven by tourism, international trade, and a variety of other sectors, and is home to popular destinations like the Everglades and miles of sandy beaches.
Enter the 2026 Pinnacle Awards to Showcase Your Excellence!
May. 26, 2026
The National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) is excited to announce that the 2026 Pinnacle Awards are now open for submissions. These annual awards celebrate outstanding achievements in government digital design and innovation.
Work produced since Jan. 1, 2025, to the present is eligible for entry in the competition.
Take this opportunity to highlight your team’s achievements and earn industry recognition. We look forward to seeing projects that are shaping the future of public service online.
Award Categories
Pinnacle Award for Excellence in Government Web Design: Recognizes the best city/county, federal, state, special district, nongovernmental and microsites.
Award for Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement: Celebrates forward-thinking digital projects that demonstrate creative use of technology to enhance public engagement, service delivery or access to information.
Steven Michael Moore Pinnacle Award:Honors a nominee for excellence in the government web profession.
Key Dates
Submission Deadline: Sunday, July 12, 2026
Awards Presentation:Pinnacle Awards Dinner on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, during the NAGW National Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Why Enter?
The Pinnacle Awards honor the organizations and projects making government digital services more useful, accessible and effective. Entering gives your team a chance to earn national recognition from peers and industry leaders who understand the work that goes into serving the public online. It’s a way to showcase successful websites, digital tools and communication strategies that are making a real difference for residents.
Who Can Enter?
The Pinnacle Awards competition is open to all local government jurisdictions (cities, counties, towns, villages, special districts, etc.), nongovernmental organizations, state and federal jurisdictions. Vendors and consultants may also submit entries on behalf of their government clients, provided they are submitted under the client's name and jurisdiction. Awards will be presented in the client’s name and jurisdiction.
Entry Fee
NAGW Members and Nonmembers: $150 per award entry (except for Steven Michael Moore Pinnacle Award)
Payment must be received no later than Aug. 2, 2026, for your entry to be eligible for the competition.
How to Enter
The 2026 Pinnacle Awards competition entry process is designed to be easy and efficient, with short online response fields and flexible payment options.
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Brenda Soto, Ed.D., Customer Education Manager, Siteimprove
Date and Time: Monday, June 8, 12-1 p.m. CT
Make It Stick
Maintaining Accessibility Through Sustainable Staff Training
This session shares practical ways to build sustainable accessibility training that’s woven into everyday workflows rather than delivered once and forgotten when staff move on. Learn how to use role-based, repeatable strategies and simple techniques to drive lasting adoption.
Brenda Soto is a Customer Education leader and instructional design expert who is passionate about creating accessible, practical learning experiences. Her background spans higher education and corporate learning, and earlier in her career, she taught undergraduate students at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón and mentored several instructional designers. She currently leads customer education strategy at Siteimprove and holds a Master’s in Education and a Doctorate in Education in Instructional Design with her research focusing on accessibility in online learning.
Call for Speakers Extended – NAGW 2026 Conference
Apr. 30, 2026
The deadline has been extended!
You now have until May 15, 2026 to submit your proposal for the 2026 NAGW National Conference. While the DOJ has extended timelines for accessibility compliance, the need for practical guidance, real-world solutions, and shared knowledge is more important than ever. Agencies are still navigating evolving expectations—and your experience can help lead the way.
If you've been thinking about presenting, now is the time.
Conference Details
Dates: October 6-9, 2026 Location: Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Topics Include
Accessibility • AI • Analytics • Chatbots & Search • Content Strategy • Digital Asset Management • Emerging Technology • Forms & Automation • GIS & Mapping • Governance & Policy • Community Engagement • Project Management • Security • Social Media • UX/UI • Website Design • Web Development
Presentation Formats
General Sessions: 60 minutes (45-50 minute presentation with Q&A)
Pre-Conference Sessions: 4-hour sessions held Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Why Present
Share your expertise with peers nationwide
Help others navigate evolving digital requirements
Build your professional portfolio
Connect with a passionate community
Receive a discounted conference registration of $650
Important Notes
Conference registration is required if selected — do not register until you receive your speaker discount code
Acceptance notifications will be emailed in June 2026
Final presentations must be submitted by October 1, 2026, to be shared with attendees after the conference
Travel expenses are the responsibility of the speaker
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Anthony Berry, Executive Director, Client Relations, GovAI
Date and Time: Wednesday, May 6, 1-2 p.m. CT
AI Relief, Not Revolution
A Practical Path for Government Web Teams
AI was supposed to make digital work easier. But for many government web and communications teams, it has introduced new confusion: too many tools, unclear expectations, fragmented experimentation, and growing pressure to “do something with AI” without a clear foundation.
This session looks at the hidden issues that quietly stall AI progress across digital teams. We will explore why lack of shared AI fluency creates friction in content workflows, web governance, and cross-functional collaboration, and why large or overly complex AI efforts often fail to deliver day-to-day relief. Most importantly, we will cover a more practical path forward: building strong basics, supporting broad staff understanding, and improving the way teams create, structure, and manage digital content in an AI-enabled environment. Attendees will leave with a clearer framework for making AI more useful, more coordinated, and more realistic for government web operations.
DOJ Rule on Accessibility of Web Information and Services Timeline Extended
Apr. 17, 2026
State and local governments have been granted additional time to meet ADA website and mobile app accessibility requirements following an interim rule issued by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
The updated compliance schedule is:
Large Jurisdictions (Populations 50,000+): Deadline extended to April 26, 2027 (previously April 2026).
Small Jurisdictions & Special Districts: Deadline extended to April 26, 2028 (previously April 2027).
While these new dates offer an extension for implementation, the fundamental requirement to provide accessible digital services remains a priority.
NAGW is committed to helping our members navigate these technical standards. We are here to serve as your primary resource for best practices, knowledge sharing, and education focused on meeting WCAG standards effectively.
Need assistance? Connect with your peers on the NAGW listserv or explore the NAGW Accessibility Resource Library to explore toolkits, examples, plans, and other helpful documentation.
April Webinar: If You Build It, They Will Come
Apr. 17, 2026
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Colleen Kilian, Systems Administrator, City of Champaign, IL NAGW Board Treasurer
Date and Time: Tuesday, April 28, 12-1 p.m. CT
If You Build It, They Will Come
Teaching Accessible PDFs Across City Staff
Learn how Colleen developed and delivered a citywide training that equipped staff – regardless of their experience – with the fundamentals of creating accessible PDFs. Colleen will share how the training was built, key topic covered, and practical strategies to ensure documents meet accessibility standards. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining existing skills, you’ll gain actionable insights to make your digital content more inclusive.
April Webinar: The Presentation That Changed Everything
Apr. 8, 2026
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Marcus Townsend, Solutions Architect, City of Fayetteville, NC; NAGW East Region Director
Date and Time: Thursday, April 23, 1-2 p.m. CT
The Presentation That Changed Everything
Getting Buy-In on Title II ADA Compliance
After two years of raising the alarm about Title II ADA web accessibility requirements with little traction, one presentation finally changed everything. In this session, Marcus Townsend, Solution Architect and Accessibility Advocate, shares the real story of how he crafted a presentation that cut through the noise and earned the full attention of senior city management.
You'll hear what didn't work, what finally did, and how framing compliance not just as a legal obligation but as a community equity and risk management issue made all the difference. This session is packed with practical takeaways for government web professionals who are fighting the same uphill battle — trying to get the people in the room with decision-making power to truly understand what's at stake under the new Title II ruling.
Attendees will leave with:
Strategies for framing ADA compliance in ways that resonate with executive leadership
Lessons learned from two years of persistence in a municipal government environment
A look at the actual presentation approach that finally got results
Confidence and tools to have the same breakthrough conversation in their own organization
Call for Speakers for 2026 NAGW National Conference is now open!
Mar. 29, 2026
The 2026 NAGW National Conference in beautiful downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin! Join us to share your expertise, knowledge, and ideas Oct. 6-9, at the beautiful full-service Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Milwaukee!
The focus of the conference is to bring government employees from all levels of government who share similar goals and issues. The event is open to anyone looking to enhance their skills and acquire knowledge on the latest trends in the web and government digital technologies. We welcome speakers from the public and private sector.
Notifications and Outreach Strategy (Community Engagement)
Project and Product Management
Security
Social Media
UX / UI
Website Design / Redesign
Web Development
Presentation Length
General sessions: are 60 minutes (45-50 minute presentation / 15 minute Q&A)
Pre-Conference Sessions: 4 hours with a break (Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026)
Benefits of Presenting
Receive a discounted conference registration of $650as compensation for speaking.
Share your expertise with your peers.
Network with NAGW – everyone’s favorite!
Receive recognition and feedback about your presentation.
Expand your professional portfolio.
Important Information
Conference registration is required if your conference session is selected. Do not register until you are sent the discount code to use.
Speakers are responsible for their own travel expenses.
Proposals are due April 30, 2026.
Formal notification of presentation acceptance will be emailed in June.
All presenters will be asked to provide an electronic version of their presentation (to be made available online to conference attendees following the Annual Conference) no later than Oct. 1, 2026.
All speakers must agree to abide by the NAGW Conference Code of Conduct to help us maintain a positive and welcoming environment for everyone.
March Webinar: Progress Over Perfection
Mar. 24, 2026
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Short notice alert: we hope you can join us for this exciting webinar with Maya!
Presenter: Maya Gallardo, Digital Accessibility Specialist, City of Thornton, CO
Date and Time: Tuesday, March 31, 12-1 p.m. CT
Progress Over Perfection
Digital Accessibility Compliance and the Maturity Model
Progress over perfection and why the maturity model is key to meeting current compliance and planning for future compliance.
2026 NAGW Conference Registration Now Open
Mar. 23, 2026
Dear NAGW Community,
If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that there is simply no substitute for the energy of this community. After our incredible reunion in Denver last year, we’ve been riding a wave of inspiration, new connections, and digital breakthroughs.We’re ready to take that momentum and continue higher!
The NAGW National Conference returns in 2026, and we’re ready to build on the foundation we laid together last year.
The Details
Where: Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, 333 W. Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203
When:
Pre-Conference:Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026*
Conference:Wednesday – Friday, Oct. 7 - 8, 2026
Why 2026 Will Be Our Best Year Yet
We’ve listened to your feedback to make this year’s experience even more impactful. Here is what’s in store:
The "NAGW Spark": Last year proved that our community’s greatest strength is its people. We’re expanding our legendary networking sessions to give you even more time for those hallway brainstorms and "aha!" moments.
Tailored Learning:Whether you’re a solo shop or part of a large digital team, we’re planning the 2026 Conference agenda to be packed with real-world insights you can bring back to your agency.
Mark your calendars - the National Association of Government Web Professionals National Conference is heading to Milwaukee, Wisconsin!
📅 October 6–9, 2026
📍 Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
Join government web and digital professionals from across the country for a few days of big ideas, smarter digital strategies, and plenty of inspiration! Expect engaging sessions, practical insights, and the kind of hallway conversations that spark your next great project.
Plus, Milwaukee in October means crisp fall air, great food, and a lakefront city ready to welcome you.
Mark your calendars now - more details (and registration info) are coming soon!
March Webinar: Empowering Englewood
Feb. 27, 2026
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Lucia Magnuson, Web & Digital Content Strategist, City of Englewood, CO
Date and Time:Tuesday, March 10, 12-1 p.m. CT
Empowering Englewood
A User-Centered Approach to Website Optimization
Learn how Englewood's usability lab program engaged volunteers to test its main site and microsites. See how user feedback shaped content and accessibility, ensuring a user-centric digital experience.
February Webinar: No One Likes Your Posts (Yet)
Jan. 30, 2026
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Jamie Le, Assistant to the City Manager, City of Torrance, CA
Date and Time:Wednesday, February 11, 3-4 p.m. CT
No One Likes Your Posts (Yet)
Fixing Government Social Media One Pillar at a Time
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Jamie Le of the City of Torrance!
She'll share her team's successful, repeatable system for social media messaging. This approach is designed to support and build community while reinforcing their values, allowing them to effectively avoid the pitfalls of low-quality social media slop.
Whether you missed Jamie’s talk at the conference or want a chance to review the key takeaways, be sure to join us for our next NAGW webinar!
January Fireside: Browser Extension Potluck
Dec. 19, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenters: You!
Date and Time:Thursday, January 22, 12-1 p.m. CT
Browser Extension Potluck
Let's get 2026 started with a virtual potluck and share browser extensions you love. We all have those little customizations that make our browsing better in work and life. So please sign up and bring a few of your personal favorites to share and discuss for any or all of the browsers you use. It'll be a relaxed and low-key space to chat and screen share if it helps show us why your extension is cool. We'll all come away with fresh inspiration to liven up the post-holiday doldrums.
See you there!
December Webinar: Leveraging Your CMS and Digital Agents for Citizen Engagement with Granicus
Nov. 20, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenters: Luke Norris, Vice President, Platform Strategy & Transformation, Granicus Marcus Townsend, NAGW East Region Director, Solutions Architect for the City of Fayetteville, NC
Date and Time:Tuesday, December 9, 2025, 12-1 p.m. CT
New Date and Time: Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 11-12 CT
(Apologies, we had to reschedule.)
Leveraging Your CMS and Digital Agents for Citizen Engagement
Is your government website truly meeting citizen expectations? Many agencies struggle with outdated content and limited user engagement.
Join us to explore how you can transform your website's effectiveness by maximizing your current CMS and implementing a useful AI agent. You'll learn practical strategies to improve website readiness, enhance user experience, and deliver better service to your community without a complete overhaul.
Key learning outcomes:
Learn how to get more value from your existing CMS set up.
Best practices for selecting an AI agent that is truly helpful for citizens.
Gain actionable tips to improve information discovery immediately
Luke Norris is the Vice President of Platform Strategy & Digital Transformation at Granicus. He leads the company's AI/ML portfolio and go-to-market strategy. Previously, he was Chief Growth Officer at OpenCities and played key roles at PayIt and Code for America, where he supported 110+ governments on digital transformation and helped develop the Open311 standard. A recognized thought leader, Luke frequently speaks on smart cities and civic tech at major conferences. Based in Kansas City, MO, he's active in local nonprofits and has received multiple civic leadership awards.
Marcus Townsend
NAGW East Region Director Solutions Architect for the City of Fayetteville, NC
Marcus Townsend is the Solutions Architect for the City of Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he has worked in various Information Technology and Communication Departments roles for more than fifteen years. After earning his Certified Government Digital Service Professional (CGDSP) in 2019, he was chosen by the Fayetteville Observer for their 40 under 40 award, recognizing him as one of the area's top business professionals and community leaders for his work serving the community and sharing his talent with various Non-profits.
Passionate about technology and accessibility, Marcus joined the NAGW board in 2020 filling the vacant position of East Regional Director. In his spare time, Marcus can be likely found tuning a wrench on his mustang or shooting a game of 9 ball.
NAGW Announces 2025 Pinnacle Award Winners
Oct. 16, 2025
The National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) announced its annual Pinnacle Award winners during the organization's 2025 national conference in Denver, Colorado.
The NAGW Pinnacle Awards celebrate excellence in digital government innovation and are judged by peers and other industry professionals. The awards ceremony highlighted outstanding achievements and innovation in transforming government services.
“On behalf of the NAGW Board of Directors, we are honored to recognize this year’s Pinnacle Award winners,” said Jennifer Chapman, NAGW President. “These individuals and teams exemplify innovation and excellence in digital government. Their work raises the standard for transparency, accessibility, and engagement - helping to make government more open, connected, and responsive to the people it serves.”.
Awards were presented in categories for cities and counties and awards for state and federal organizations, microsites, and special site features. The Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement award recognizes innovative digital programs, services or campaigns.
2025 NAGW Pinnacle Award Winners
Best in Show Sponsor’s Award - Presented by Siteimprove
November Webinar: How to Make Your Data Presentations Customer-Focused
Sep. 30, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW Webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Scott Davis, Senior Webmaster, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Date and Time: Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 1-2 p.m. CT
How to Make Your Data Presentations Customer-Focused
Join Scott Davis, Senior Webmaster at DNR, for an insightful session on creating effective data visualizations based on his extensive background in USA Today graphics. Scott will cover essential principles of aesthetics, usability and accessibility in visual data design, including chart selection, typography, color usage and interactive elements. Whether you're a beginner or experienced designer, you'll leave with actionable techniques to enhance your data visualization projects.
September Fireside - Share Your Accessibility Training Resources
Aug. 28, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW Fireside chat! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenters:
🫵 You!!
📅 Date and Time:Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 12-1 p.m. CT
Share Your Accessibility Training Resources
🔥 Join us for an interactive fireside where we’ll swap our best links and tools for accessibility training. Where do you research accessibility? What do you share with content editors? What do you share with decision-makers? Whether it's a fantastic webinar, a useful checklist, or a resource you created yourself, this is the perfect opportunity to share what works and pick up some new ideas from your peers. Let's make this a lively and resource-filled event! It's like a cookie exchange... in September... with no carbs.
Your homework: collect your best resources and register!
September Webinar with Code for America - Beyond the Audit: Building a Proactive PDF Accessibility Workflow
Aug. 28, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! This is a special webinar open to all members and non-members alike. Share it with your colleagues!
📅 Date and Time: Thursday, September 25, 2025, 1-2 p.m. CT
Beyond the Audit: Building a Proactive PDF Accessibility Workflow
Navigating PDF accessibility can feel overwhelming, but it's a critical responsibility for government agencies. This webinar presents strategies on how to create a comprehensive, proactive workflow for auditing PDFs in preparation for the April 2026 deadline for WCAG 2.1 compliance under the Americans with Disabilities Act. You'll get a demo of an open source application from Code for America designed to support PDF auditing workflows. We’ll also share some DIY tips to help you get started on auditing your PDFs. Join us to get practical strategies on how to tackle your PDFs to make your online information truly accessible to all.
About the Speakers
Jenn Thom
Senior Director of Data Science, Code for America
Jenn leads the Data Science team and is a key leadership driver in the development and execution of Code for America’s AI strategy. Prior to joining Code for America, she led a group of research scientists at Spotify focused on building interactive AI-driven prototypes to unlock novel music and podcast listening experiences. Her past experience includes collecting and creating large scale datasets for training natural language understanding models at Amazon Alexa and analyzing information networks to describe collaboration patterns supported by social software at IBM Research. She received a BS in Human Service Studies and a MS and PhD focused on human-computer interaction from Cornell University.
Rebecca Woodbury
Founder, Department of Civic Things
Rebecca worked in local government for over a decade and was the City of San Rafael’s first director of Digital Service & Open Government. She also served as the City’s public information officer. Rebecca developed the City’s digital strategic framework and led an organization-wide human-centered design training program.
In 2017, Government Technology named her one of the Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers and in 2014 she received the Rising Star award at the Municipal Management Association of Northern California’s Women’s Leadership Summit. She has a BA in Public Policy and an MPP, both from Mills College in Oakland, California.
Keynote Announcement: Scott Tolinski is coming to NAGW 2025!
Aug. 7, 2025
The National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) is thrilled to announce Scott Tolinksi as a keynote speaker for the 2025 NAGW National Conference, taking place October 14–17 in Denver, Colorado.
Scott is an Executive Producer at Sentry, where he works on Syntax, a popular web development podcast and YouTube channel. Since 2012, Scott has been teaching developers and sharing his passion for the web through Level Up Tutorials.
In this energizing and honest keynote, Scott pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to keep pace with modern development. From battling burnout to staying laser-focused amid endless distractions, he'll share hard-earned strategies, personal stories, and practical tips for lifelong learning in tech.
Whether you're a seasoned web & digital professional or just starting out, Scott’s keynote will leave you inspired, informed, and better equipped to thrive in an industry that never stops moving.
Scott’s keynote will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 9 a.m. during the NAGW Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station.
One More Week! Pinnacle Award Deadline Extended to August 11
Aug. 1, 2025
Good news! We've received several requests for more time, so we're extending the Pinnacle Awards submission deadline again. If you've been meaning to enter but needed a little extra time, now is your chance.
New Final Deadline: Monday, August 11, 2025 Awards Presentation: October 16, 2025, at the NAGW National Conference in Denver Entry Fee: $150 for members / $250 for non-members
The Pinnacle Awards recognize excellence in digital government, including innovation, accessibility, user experience, and design. Whether you're part of a large city or a small county, your work deserves recognition.
August Webinar with Polimorphic - Eliminate the Update Backlog: How to Make Web Maintenance Smarter with AI
Jul. 22, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenters: Nav Ramineni, Solutions Consultant, Polimorphic Brandon Hennes, City Administrator, City of Omro, WI
Date and Time:Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 1-2 p.m. CDT
Eliminate the Update Backlog: How to Make Web Maintenance Smarter with AI
Keeping a local government website accurate, accessible, and up to date is a never-ending task and often a thankless one. With limited resources, competing priorities, and sprawling content, many web professionals find themselves constantly playing catch-up.
In this session, we'll explore how local governments are using AI to streamline web maintenance, identify high-impact updates, and eliminate redundant manual work. You'll learn:
How to quickly spot outdated or hard-to-find information using resident interaction data
Leverage AI suggestions to improve content quality
Reduce turnaround time for updates.
We'll also showcase real examples from communities using Polimorphic's platform to power smarter search, chat, and form experiences, making their websites not just easier to maintain but measurably more helpful for residents and staff.
Whether you manage your agency's website solo or as part of a broader team, this session will leave you with practical ideas for cutting your backlog and getting ahead.
About the Speakers
Nav Ramineni
Solutions Consultant, Polimorphic
In his role at Polimorphic, Nav works with local governments across the country to find impactful AI solutions for the teams. He is passionate about government modernization and improving services using AI.
Brandon Hennes
City Administrator, City of Omro, WI
Brandon is the City Administrator for Omro, WI, where he is dedicated to enhancing municipal operations and fostering community growth. He enjoys the challenge of optimizing resources and driving initiatives that positively impact residents' lives.
Serve on the NAGW Board – Nominations Now Open!
Jul. 21, 2025
Bring Your Voice to the Table, Run for the NAGW Board!
Are you ready to lead, influence, and help shape the future of government digital services? NAGW is looking for passionate and dedicated professionals to serve on our Board of Directors. This is more than a volunteer opportunity — it’s a chance to represent your peers, drive progress, and make a difference in the work we do every day.
This year, we have:
Four regional board positions
One at-large board position
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or stepping into leadership for the first time, this is your opportunity to grow, connect, and contribute in a meaningful way.
Why Join the NAGW Board?
Impact: Help shape the direction of NAGW and influence the future of digital government.
Community: Collaborate with like-minded professionals from across the country.
Growth: Gain valuable leadership and governance experience.
Rewarding: Give back to the community and help others succeed.
Influence: Represent your region and elevate the voices of your peers.
What’s Involved?
Board members are volunteers who:
Participate in regular board meetings
Collaborate on NAGW initiatives
Represent NAGW at events
Help guide the strategic direction of the organization
Who Should Run?
We encourage all full voting members to consider running, especially if you:
Are committed to digital excellence in government
Have ideas to help grow NAGW and support our members
Want to make connections and influence change
Important Deadlines
Nomination Deadline: Friday, August 8, 2025 (All materials must be complete and submitted)
Voting Period: Monday, August 18 to Friday, August 29, 2025
Board Meeting: Winners are asked to attend the member meeting during the NAGW Conference on Thursday, October 16, 2025
How to Nominate
Submit a Nomination Letter Send your nomination via email or mail to: Debbie Deacy Board Secretary [email protected] Web Services Manager, DuPage County 421 N. County Farm Rd. Wheaton, IL 60187
Include the region name and position
Any full voting member may nominate another member or themselves
Two letters of reference (txt, rtf, pdf, doc, or docx)
Questionnaire responses will be posted in the members-only area for review
2025 Open Board Positions
Regular Two-Year Terms:
Region 1 – Midwest IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD Current Director: Vacant
Region 3 – Northeast CT, ME, MA, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT Current Director: Rene Tuttle (appointed) — Not seeking re-election
Region 5 – South AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, OK, PR, TX, USVI Current Director: Jennifer Chapman
Region 7 – Mountain AZ, CO, MT, NM, UT, WY Current Director: Dave Seabeck
At-Large (1) Current Director: Chris Coleman
Get Involved!
Joining the NAGW Board is a rewarding way to grow professionally, make lasting connections, and help shape the future of digital government. If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to take the next step, we encourage you to submit your nomination.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Deadline Extended! Submit Your 2025 Pinnacle Award Entries by August 1
Jul. 18, 2025
Great news! You've got more time to enter the 2025 Pinnacle Awards, the deadline has been extended to Friday, August 1, 2025.
These awards recognize excellence in digital government, including innovation, user engagement, and outstanding website design. Whether you're part of a large city or a small county, this is your chance to gain national recognition for your work.
New Deadline: Friday, August 1, 2025 Awards Presentation: October 16, 2025, at the NAGW National Conference in Denver, CO Member Price: $150 per entry Non-Member Price: $250 per entry
Award categories include:
Pinnacle Award for Excellence in Government Web Design
Award for Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement
Early Bird NAGW Conference registration ends Friday, July 11 at 11:59 p.m.
Jul. 10, 2025
Dear NAGW Community,
Grab your laptops, lanyards, and maybe a light sweater because this fall, the Mile High City is calling! The 2025 NAGW Annual Conference is landing in Denver, Colorado from October 14–17, and you’re invited to the most dynamic gathering of government web professionals this side of the Rockies.
Expert-led sessions on accessibility, AI, web design, digital strategy, and more!
Real talk and collaboration with your peers (who actually get what you do!)
Networking that doesn’t feel like “networking,” we make actual real connections
A chance to explore Denver
Whether you’ve been to 10 conferences or are still wondering what “NAGW” stands for (no judgment, we’ll convert you), this event is for you. Plus, we have a lot of fun!
The Early Bird registration deadline for the 2025 National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) National Conference has been extended until Friday, July 11!
If you haven’t registered yet, this is your chance to save on conference pricing and secure your spot at the premier event for web & digital government professionals.
Join us for expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops (check out the Pre-Conference Session workshops!), keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and the latest in digital government trends. Whether you’re a web developer, content strategist, communications professional, or IT specialist, you’ll find valuable takeaways to support your work and your community.
Take advantage of the extended early bird pricing and register today.
See you in Denver!
July Webinar - Webflow: A Modern Approach to Government Websites
Jun. 30, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Daniel Strangfeld, Founder & Design Lead, Basil Design Company
Date and Time: Tuesday, July 15, 2025, 12-1 p.m. CDT
Learn how the Webflow platform provides a secure, state-of-the-art tool for agencies to build and manage government websites.
In this webinar, you'll get a high-level overview of Webflow, a modern website-building platform used by agencies to create government websites. From built-in AI and accessibility features to Webflow's robust CMS for scaling websites, you'll hear from the experts at Basil Design Company who use the platform every day.
About the Speaker: Daniel Strangfeld
Daniel Strangfeld is a designer and website strategist specializing in branding and Webflow website development for a variety of niche industries. As the founder of Basil Design Company, he leads a team that crafts authentic brand identities and scalable digital experiences for B2B companies and US government entities.
Pre-Conference Workshop Registration Now Open!
Jun. 27, 2025
Get a head start on the NAGW Annual Conference by joining one of our engaging pre-conference workshops, now available for registration! These in-depth, half-day sessions are tailored specifically for government web and digital professionals and offer practical, hands-on learning in key focus areas: accessibility, web design, analytics, and AI.
Led by industry experts, each workshop dives deep into tools, strategies, and real-world solutions to help you elevate your skills and better serve your agency.
Workshops are priced at $115 each for NAGW members and $145 each for non-members. Don’t miss this chance to sharpen your expertise before the conference officially begins – register today!
Already registered for the main NAGW Conference? No problem, add on a Pre-Conference session by registering for each session(s) below!
Pre-Conference Schedule:
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025 | Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.: AI Innovation in Government: Practical Applications for IT & Communications Professionals
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.: Analytics for the Weary: From Setup to Storytelling with Google Tools
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.: Lunch (included in Pre-Conference registration cost)
1 p.m. to 5 p.m.: Just Tell Me What To Do: Building a Blueprint for Digital Accessibility Success Through Policy, Brand, and Clear Guidance
1 p.m. to 5 p.m.: WordPress “Build A Site” Workshop
If you are attending a morning Pre-Conference session, you are eligible to receive a complimentary breakfast as part of your Pre-Conference registration.
If you are attending an afternoon Pre-Conference session, you are eligible to receive a complimentary lunch as part of your Pre-Conference registration.
If you are attending a morning and afternoon Pre-Conference session, you are eligible to receive a complimentary breakfast & lunch as part of your Pre-Conference registration.
We hope to see you there!
Keynote Announcement: Brian Elms is Coming to NAGW 2025!
Jun. 16, 2025
The National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) is thrilled to announce Brian Elms as a keynote speaker for the 2025 NAGW National Conference, taking place October 14–17 in Denver, Colorado.
Brian is the CEO and Founder of Change Agents Training, Co-Founder of RVRWRK, and author of Peak Performance. He is also an Urban Leadership Fellow at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. With more than five years as Director of the Peak Academy and Analytics for the City and County of Denver, Brian brings deep expertise in government innovation and process improvement.
His leadership helped save Denver over $30 million, training more than 7,000 public and nonprofit professionals in Lean, Six Sigma, and employee-led innovation practices.
In his keynote, "Useless Work Sucks the Joy Out of Our Jobs," Brian will share practical tools to reduce inefficiency and burnout—empowering public servants to achieve more with the resources they have. His insights will help teams tackle internal challenges and transform how government works for residents and employees alike.
Brian’s keynote will be held on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 9 a.m. during the NAGW Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station.
Register now to join us in Denver! Early Bird pricing ends soon!
Enter the 2025 Pinnacle Awards to Showcase Your Excellence!
Jun. 3, 2025
We are excited to announce that the 2025 Pinnacle Awards are now open for submissions! These awards celebrate outstanding achievements in digital government innovation, and we invite you to participate and showcase your exceptional work in transforming government services.
Key Dates
Competition Opens: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Submission Deadline:Friday, July 18, 2025
Awards Presentation: Oct. 16, 2025 at the NAGW National Conference in Denver, CO!
Pricing
Member Price:$150 per award
Non-Member Price: $250 per award
Award Categories
Pinnacle Award for Excellence in Government Web Design: Recognizes the best City/County, Federal, State, NGO, Microsite, and Custom websites.
Award for Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement:Celebrates innovative digital programs, services, projects, campaigns designed to engage users.
Steven Michael Moore Pinnacle Award:Honors a nominee for excellence in the government web profession.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain recognition for your hard work and dedication. We look forward to seeing your innovative projects and exceptional web designs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]
June Webinar: Legal changes to web accessibility — explained
Visit our webinar page to register for this event.
How does Title II define success? How do you show progress when the work isn't finished?
JoinJames Warnken, CPACC, digital accessibility expert, as he shares what the DOJ’s final rule means for you: engaging with leadership, documenting your good faith efforts, and prioritizing remediation as deadlines approach.
After covering the recent regulation changes, we will also dive into some of the conversations that are happening today that could change the way we design, build, and maintain experiences tomorrow including the maturity models, Policy Driven Adoption for Accessibility, the proposed amendment to the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act, new versions of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, and more!
Key Takeaways:
What changes to the ADA mean for you.
What your leadership needs to know.
Practical website updates mandated by ADA Title II.
Documenting good faith efforts to meet compliance.
What conversations are happening right now that might shift the accessibility landscape in the coming years
📢 Important Note: This is the third of a three-part series on accessibility. While the first session was open to everyone, this webinar will be available exclusively to NAGW members.Consider joining NAGW today to gain full access to the series and other valuable member benefits!
🔎 Join the Conversation: Use #NAGWwebinar to share your thoughts and connect with others passionate about accessibility.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
About Blind Institute of Technology (BIT)
Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing workforce accessibility through training, staffing, and equitable digital solutions. BIT specializes in helping organizations – especially government entities, identify and remove digital accessibility barriers to create equitable online experiences.
Through expert accessibility consulting, BIT helps teams go beyond automated tools, ensuring compliance with evolving legal standards while implementing real-world solutions that ensure websites work for all people of all abilities. In addition, BIT’s workforce development programs provide industry-recognized training in Digital Accessibility and Salesforce Administration – the most digitally accessible enterprise platform available, equipping professionals with disabilities with the skills needed to thrive. BIT also places its skilled, certified apprentices into meaningful careers, connecting organizations with highly skilled talent ready to make an impact.
With a mission to make workplaces and digital spaces more accessible, BIT partners with organizations to create high-performing, equitable teams.
About the Speaker: James Warnken
James was born and raised in Northeast Ohio and has been losing his vision over the 18 years with what is known as Stargart’s.
James started his career in the world of tech and marketing and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing from Walsh University. He spent several years designing and building websites, working in search engine optimization, managing Google Ads, and running social media pages before making the move into the digital accessibility space. After spending more than two years researching, experimenting, learning and networking, James decided it was time to share what he learned about digital accessibility with the world.
Today, James oversees the accessibility audit team here at BIT, leads the Train the Trainer programs, and even instructs the Digital Accessibility Analyst course.
Just Announced: NAGW 2025 Keynote Speaker Alexa Heinrich
May. 19, 2025
Keynote Announcement: Alexa Heinrich is coming to NAGW 2025!
The National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) is excited to announce that Alexa Heinrich, award-winning social media manager and creator of Accessible Social and Social Media Tea, will take the stage as a keynote speaker at the 2025 NAGW National Conference in Denver, Colorado! 🏔️
Alexa is a globally recognized advocate for accessible digital content. She’s shared her expertise with Harvard, the World Health Organization, the National ADA Symposium, U.S. Congress, and dozens more! Now, she’s bringing her insights to the NAGW community!
Her keynote session will focus on a critical but often overlooked topic: accessibility in social media.
What you’ll learn:
Tips for copywriting and hashtag use
Strategic emoji usage
Best practices for writing alt text
Easy ways to caption videos
And more!
This session is a must-attend for anyone responsible for communicating with the public in a digital space. Don’t miss your chance to hear from one of the leading voices in accessible content.
The 2025 NAGW National Conference will be held Oct. 14-17 in Denver, CO.
Join us for our next NAGW Fireside Chat! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Professional development ahead:
Presenter: Taylor Desseyn, VP of Global Community for Torc
Date and Time:Tuesday, June 3, 2025 1-2 p.m. CT
Don't miss this webinar! Social media can be a lot, and professionally, it may feel like a chore when you already have a stable job. However, come discover some of the real, tangible benefits of learning how to use LinkedIn effectively for your professional growth.
Expand your network (and get the most out of future in-person conferences, hint, hint)
Discover opportunities
Boost your visibility and influence
Stay informed
Taylor is an accomplished speaker and presence in the tech sector who has a deep knowledge of the industry. Look for practical tips and a wise perspective on nurturing your online presence.
About Taylor
With over 13+ years of experience in the talent industry, Taylor has placed more than 1,000 software developers in new roles, helping scale hundreds of engineering teams across the globe. His work spans startups to global enterprises, always grounded in a deep passion for people and meaningful connection.
In 2020, he realized that his true calling was building community—not just placing talent. Since then, he has dedicated himself to creating online spaces where developers can grow, connect, and find support at scale.
Today, he serves as the VP of Global Community at Torc, where he leads the charge in making Torc’s digital ecosystem—especially its vibrant Discord community—a home base for developers navigating their careers and job searches. His mission is to ensure that every software engineer feels like they belong somewhere.
A seasoned international speaker and keynote presenter, Taylor Desseyn frequently shares his insights at major tech conferences across the U.S., speaking on the future of work, remote talent, and the power of community in tech.
Taylor’s mission is simple yet impactful: to show people they’re not alone in the job search while providing valuable support and insights every step of the way.
May Fireside: NAGW 2025 Conference
May. 5, 2025
Join us as we dive into all things related to the 2025 NAGW National Conference, happening this fall in beautiful Denver, Colorado.
This Fireside Chat will be held:
Tuesday, May 20
12 p.m. Central
This Fireside Chat is open to both members and non-members, so if you’re curious about NAGW or thinking of attending the conference for the first time, this is a great way to get a sneak peek!
NAGW board members will share behind-the-scenes insights, highlight key speakers and sessions, and give you a taste of what's to come, from tech trends and digital best practices to hands-on workshops and can't-miss networking events.
We'll also take a moment to spotlight Denver itself, a vibrant, creative, and tech-forward city nestled in the heart of the Rockies. Whether you're drawn to the thriving food scene, stunning mountain views, or the city's deep civic innovation roots, Denver offers something for everyone.
Don't miss this opportunity to get an insider's look at the Conference and start planning your trip. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and your excitement — we can't wait to share what's in store!
WE ARE BACK! The Call for Speakers for the 2025 NAGW National Conference is now open!
NAGW is returning to our in-person National Conference in beautiful downtown Denver, CO! Join us to share your expertise, knowledge, and ideas Oct. 14 – 17, 2025, at the beautiful full-service Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station!
The focus of the conference is to bring government employees from all levels of government who share similar goals and issues. The event is open to anyone looking to enhance their skills and acquire knowledge on the latest trends in the web and government digital technologies. We welcome speakers from the public and private sector.
Notifications and Outreach Strategy (Community Engagement)
Project and Product Management
Security
Social Media
UX / UI
Website Design / Redesign
Web Development
Presentation Length
General sessions: are 60 minutes (45-50 minute presentation / 15 minute Q&A)
Pre-Conference Sessions: 4 hours with a break (Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025)
What You Get in Return
NAGW provides discounted registration to the conference as compensation for speaking.
Early Bird Pricing: $525 (NAGW member) / $750 (non-NAGW member)
Early bird registration ends July 2, 2025
Important
Conference registration is required if your conference session is selected. Do not register until you are sent the discount code to use. Speakers are responsible for their own travel expenses.
Formal notification of presentation acceptance will be emailed the last week of June.
All presenters will be asked to provide an electronic version of their presentation (to be made available online to conference attendees following the Annual Conference) no later than October 10.
All speakers must agree to abide by the NAGW Conference Code of Conduct to help us maintain a positive and welcoming environment for everyone.
Benefits of Presenting
Receive a registration discount.
Share your expertise with your peers.
Network with NAGW – everyone’s favorite!
Receive recognition and feedback about your presentation.
Expand your professional portfolio.
We're Back! Join Us for the 2025 NAGW Conference in Denver, CO!
Apr. 22, 2025
Dear NAGW Community,
We have some incredible news to share — news that’s been building behind the scenes, fueled by excitement, anticipation, and a whole lot of passion for bringing us all back together…
The NAGW National Conference is returning this October!
After a couple years of virtual meetups and online sessions, we’re thrilled to announce that we’ll be reuniting face-to-face in the heart of the Mile High City — where the views are stunning, the innovation is buzzing, and the sense of community is as strong as ever.
What’s waiting for you in Denver?
We’re planning a packed agenda with inspiring keynotes, deep-dive workshops, and real-world insights tailored for government web and digital professionals.
Networking events that go beyond screens — you know our NAGW networking is the BEST! [Recall our past shared meals, hallway conversations, and spontaneous brainstorms!]
And yes — plenty of opportunities to explore Denver’s vibrant downtown, artsy neighborhoods, picturesque mountains, and world-class cuisine.
So mark your calendars, prep your travel playlists, and get ready to join your fellow innovators for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Visit our webinar page to register for this event.
What does true user experience look like for people with disabilities? How do common accessibility issues affect real people trying to access your content?
James Warnken, CPACC, digital accessibility consultant, and legally blind digital professional, will moderate a panel of digital professionals with various disabilities as they share real-world experiences and discuss the tools they use, the barriers they face, and what true accessibility looks like.
Key Takeaways:
What true user experience means for people with disabilities.
How assistive technologies are used to navigate digital content.
Common accessibility barriers from the perspective of people with lived experience or authentic user perspectives.
Practical insights for making digital experiences more inclusive.
📢 Important Note: This is the second of a three-part series on accessibility. While the first session was open to everyone, this and the next webinar will be available exclusively to NAGW members.Consider joining NAGW today to gain full access to the series and other valuable member benefits!
💡 Stay tuned for details on the final webinar in this series.
🔎 Join the Conversation: Use #NAGWwebinar to share your thoughts and connect with others passionate about accessibility.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
About Blind Institute of Technology (BIT)
Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing workforce accessibility through training, staffing, and digital inclusion initiatives. BIT specializes in helping organizations – especially government entities, identify and remove digital accessibility barriers to create equitable online experiences.
Through expert accessibility consulting, BIT helps teams go beyond automated tools, ensuring compliance with evolving legal standards while implementing real-world solutions for more inclusive websites. In addition, BIT’s workforce development programs provide industry-recognized training in Digital Accessibility and Salesforce Administration, equipping professionals with disabilities with the skills needed to thrive. BIT also places its skilled, certified apprentices into meaningful careers, connecting organizations with highly skilled talent ready to make an impact.
With a mission to make workplaces and digital spaces more accessible, BIT partners with organizations to create high-performing, equitable teams.
About the Moderator: James Warnken
James was born and raised in Northeast Ohio and has been legally blind since he was 9.
James started his career in the world of marketing and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing from Walsh University. He spent several years building websites, working in search engine optimization, Google Ads, and social media before making the move into the digital accessibility space. After spending more than two years learning and networking, James decided it was time to share what he learned about digital accessibility with the world.
Today, James oversees the accessibility audit team here at BIT, leads the Train the Trainer programs, and even instructs the Digital Accessibility Analyst course.
Special April Webinar: Addressing Accessibility Barriers on Government Websites
This session is the first in a three-part series focused on accessibility and is open to both members and non-members—invite your colleagues!
📅 Date & Time: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 | 12-1 p.m. CT
What You’ll Learn:
🔹 Why manual testing is crucial for catching what automated tools miss. 🔹 How AI is helping in accessibility—and where it’s falling short. 🔹 What the latest legal requirements mean for your government website. 🔹 Strategies to gain leadership support for accessibility initiatives. 🔹 Real-world solutions to common accessibility issues.
Featured Speaker:
🗣️ James Warnken, CPACC—a digital accessibility consultant and legally blind digital professional—will share expert insights on breaking down barriers and building inclusive websites.
📢 Important Note: This is the first of a three-part series on accessibility. While this session is open to everyone, the next two webinars will be available exclusively to NAGW members. Consider joining NAGW today to gain full access to the series and other valuable member benefits!
💡 Stay tuned for details on the next two sessions.
🔎 Join the Conversation: Use #NAGWwebinar to share your thoughts and connect with others passionate about accessibility.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
About Blind Institute of Technology (BIT)
Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing workforce accessibility through training, staffing, and digital inclusion initiatives. BIT specializes in helping organizations – especially government entities, identify and remove digital accessibility barriers to create equitable online experiences.
Through expert accessibility consulting, BIT helps teams go beyond automated tools, ensuring compliance with evolving legal standards while implementing real-world solutions for more inclusive websites. In addition, BIT’s workforce development programs provide industry-recognized training in Digital Accessibility and Salesforce Administration, equipping professionals with disabilities with the skills needed to thrive. BIT also places its skilled, certified apprentices into meaningful careers, connecting organizations with highly skilled talent ready to make an impact.
With a mission to make workplaces and digital spaces more accessible, BIT partners with organizations to create high-performing, equitable teams.
About the Speaker: James Warnken
James was born and raised in Northeast Ohio and has been legally blind since he was 9.
James started his career in the world of marketing and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing from Walsh University. He spent several years building websites, working in search engine optimization, Google Ads, and social media before making the move into the digital accessibility space. After spending more than two years learning and networking, James decided it was time to share what he learned about digital accessibility with the world.
Today, James oversees the accessibility audit team here at BIT, leads the Train the Trainer programs, and even instructs the Digital Accessibility Analyst course.
March Fireside: Analytically Speaking
Feb. 28, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW fireside and webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenters: Dave Seabeck & Marcus Townsend, NAGW Board Members
Maybe you too!
Date and Time:Tuesday, March 25, 2025 1-2 p.m. CT
Join our interactive show-and-tell about Google Analytics! We'll focus on practical configuration best practices, troubleshooting, and creating effective reports with Google Analytics, Tag Manager, and Looker Studio. Bring your own experiences and questions as we explore analytics tools and best practices for monitoring site usage, building reports, and generating actionable insights. Let's connect and collaborate on a practical subject that can befuddle any busy web professional. Join us to streamline your analytics setup and learn from your peers.
Two February Webinars: Express Yourself and GIS Dashboards
Feb. 1, 2025
Join us for our next NAGW fireside and webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
February Fireside: Express Yourself- Mobilize Your Organization with Adobe Express and Beyond
Presenters:
Chris Coleman, eGovernment Services Architect, Chesterfield County
Lauren Henry, Senior Content Developer, Chesterfield County
Date and Time: Thursday, February 20, 2025 2-3 p.m. CT
Join Chesterfield County, Virginia’s Chris Coleman and Lauren Henry for a lively fireside chat on moving your organization from static PDFs to more accessible, web-based solutions. They’ll share practical strategies for building the case, overcoming resistance and creating engaging, user-friendly content—highlighting how free tools like Adobe Express can help. Whether you’re just starting to rethink PDFs or looking to expand your digital toolkit, this session will spark new ideas for modern government communications.
February Webinar: Spark Innovation with ArcGIS Dashboards
Presenter: Cat Cronlund, GIS Analyst, City of Johns Creek
Date and Time:Tuesday, February 25, 2025 12-1 p.m. CT
This hands-on demonstration will show how the City of Johns Creek uses the latest ArcGIS Dashboard technology, which can help spark ideas and interactive uses for your agency. From Police Vehicle Maintenance to Capital Project Tracking to Asset Management, Johns Creek uses dashboards to gives users access to their data in ways that allow them to plan project timelines, manage tasks, and report KPI metrics to key stakeholders whether that is upper management, city representatives, or the public.
December Webinar: Elevate your accessibility and SEO with Siteimprove
Nov. 25, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenters: Christina Adams,Manager of Digital Accessibility, Siteimprove
Sam Bjellum, Corporate Account Executive, Siteimprove
Date and Time:Thursday, December 5, 2024 1-2 p.m. CT
Join Siteimprove for a webinar on empowering websites through digital accessibility and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Discover how to create inclusive websites that are easily accessible to all users, regardless of ability. We'll also discuss the importance of SEO in increasing visibility, making information easy to find, and promoting civic engagement. Learn practical strategies to build a user-friendly and impactful online presence for your agency.
Special Webinar - ADA Compliance for Government Websites: A Practical Conversation
Nov. 14, 2024
We’re excited to partner with theNational Association of Counties (NACo)to present this informative webinar on ADA website compliance. NACo represents county governments across the nation, working to support and advocate for county policies and practices that serve their communities. In this session, we’ll explore effective strategies to make government websites accessible and inclusive for all residents.
Date and Time:Thursday, November 21, 2024, 12 p.m. CST
Key Topics:
Developing a Strategy:Learn how to create a roadmap for your website’s accessibility journey.
Practical Tips for Implementation:Discover actionable steps to enhance your website’s accessibility.
The Role of Vendors and Third-Party Tools:Find out how to collaborate with vendors and leverage technology to streamline compliance.
Overcoming Common Challenges:Identify common obstacles and explore solutions.
Why You Should Join:
Gain insights from industry experts in the field of accessibility.
Network with other compliance professionals to share experiences and strategies.
Access a curated list of free tools and assessments to kickstart your accessibility efforts.
Panel Participants:
Marguerite Beirne, Chief Information Officer, Westchester County, N.Y.
Andrew Nielson, Director of Government-wide IT Accessibility Program, General Services Administration (GSA)
Josh Ditthardt, Vice President of Sales, CivicPlus
Colleen Kilian,Systems Administrator, City of Champaign, IL
Moderators:
Jennifer Chapman, President of NAGW and Senior Communications Manager, City of Johns Creek, Georgia
The National Association of Counties (NACo)
Register Now!Visit the NACo page to reserve your spot and take the next step toward enhancing accessibility on your website.
NAGW Announces 2024 Pinnacle Award Winners
Oct. 18, 2024
Wednesday, October 16, 2024 - The National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) announced its annual Pinnacle Award winners during the organization's 2024 Virtual Awards Ceremony.
The NAGW Pinnacle Awards celebrate excellence in digital government innovation and are judged by peers and other industry professionals. The awards ceremony highlighted outstanding achievements and innovation in transforming government services.
“On behalf of the NAGW Board of Directors, we are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Pinnacle Award winners,” said Jennifer Chapman, NAGW President. “Their innovative approach and dedication to excellence in government web services not only enhance transparency and accessibility but also set a benchmark for all professionals in our field. Collectively, we are shaping the future of digital government, ensuring that everyone can engage with their government easily and effectively."
Awards were presented in categories for cities and counties and awards for state and federal organizations, microsites, and special site features. The Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement award recognizes innovative digital programs, services or campaigns.
The following are the 2024 NAGW Pinnacle Award winners:
October Webinar: So, You Relaunched Your Website…Now What?
Sep. 27, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Tim Dodderidge, Web Content Specialist,Johnson County Government, Kansas
Date and Time:Tuesday, October 22, 2024 1-2 p.m. CT
A website rebuild is an intensive undertaking. But the launch of the new site isn’t the conclusion, it’s only the beginning. Tim Dodderidge of Johnson County Government came on board directly after the relaunch of jocogov.org, and he shares what it takes to successfully manage a site post-launch. This includes maintaining a workflow across multiple departments, enforcing the organization’s brand and style, and making incremental improvements to the site.
Decoding the DOJ Accessibility Rule: A Fireside Chat
Aug. 22, 2024
Join us for an insightful NAGW fireside chat on navigating the complexities of the DOJ Accessibility Rule. This session will feature three panelists and a moderator from different government agencies who will discuss their lessons learned in implementing accessibility programs. You will learn everything from pitfalls, content inventories, procurement, contracts, training and general best practices in order to implement accessibility at your agency.
Date and Time: Thursday, September 12, 12-1 p.m. CT
Panelists:
Abi O'Neal
IT Accessibility Program Manager Colorado Department of Personnel & Administration
Leslie Labrecque
IT Applications Senior Administrator City of Boulder, CO Former NAGW President and At Large Director
Colleen Kilian
Systems Administrator City of Champaign, IL NAGW Treasurer and At Large Director
Susanne Wiggins (Moderator)
Senior IT Specialist Montgomery County, MD
Registration: Secure your spot today! Log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page to register. Not yet a member yet? Join our community and unlock access to this invaluable session and more.
Engage: Share your thoughts and questions on accessibility using #NAGWFiresideChat. Have ideas for future topics? We are all ears!
We hope you'll join us for this important and engaging discussion!
Chatbot Chatter: An Informative Fireside Chat on an AI Adventure
Aug. 9, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW Fireside Chat! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Ryan Drake, Sr. IT Analyst, City of Santa Clarita Former NAGW Board Member and Treasurer
Date and Time: Tuesday, August 20th, 1:00 p.m. CST
Join the conversation for a NAGW fireside chat about AI chatbots. Learn from the experiences of the City of Santa Clarita. Bring your own successes and lessons learned. What questions are you dying to know? What would stop you from implementing an AI chatbot of your own?
Deadline Extended for the 2024 Pinnacle Awards!
Jul. 29, 2024
To ensure everyone has ample time to submit their exceptional projects, we are pleased to announce that the submission deadline for the 2024 Pinnacle Awards has been extended by two weeks!
New Submission Deadline: Friday, August 16, 2024
The Pinnacle Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in digital government innovation, and we invite you to participate and showcase your exceptional work in transforming government services. This extension provides a great opportunity for you to perfect your submissions and gain the recognition you deserve.
Key Dates
Competition Opens: Monday, June 10, 2024
New Submission Deadline: Friday, August 16, 2024
Awards Presentation: Date to be determined
Pricing
Member Price: $150 per award
Non-Member Price: $250 per award
Steven Michael Moore Pinnacle Award: No charge
Award Categories
Pinnacle Award for Excellence in Government Web Design: Recognizes the best City/County, Federal, State, NGO, Microsite, and Custom websites.
Award for Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement: Celebrates innovative digital programs, services, or campaigns designed to engage users.
Steven Michael Moore Pinnacle Award: Honors a nominee for excellence in the government web profession.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain recognition for your hard work and dedication. We look forward to seeing your innovative projects and exceptional web designs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at [email protected].
Serve On The NAGW Board Of Directors! Board Nominations Now Open
Jul. 15, 2024
Step Up and Make a Difference!
Nominations are now open for those interested in serving on the NAGW Board of Directors. This is a fantastic opportunity to help shape the future of our organization, make impactful decisions, and represent the interests of your fellow members. We currently have three regional and one at-large board positions up for election later this year, along with two exciting opportunities to fill vacant board seats: Midwest and At Large (1) for a one-year term.
Why Join the NAGW Board?
Impact: Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of NAGW.
Community: Connect with like-minded professionals and expand your network.
Growth: Gain valuable experience and insights into governance and leadership.
Rewarding: Experience the fulfillment that comes from contributing to our community.
Influence: Have a strong voice in guiding the direction and priorities of NAGW.
What’s Involved? Board members are volunteers who dedicate time to participate in meetings, collaborate on initiatives, and represent NAGW at various events. The role is both challenging and highly rewarding, offering a chance to develop leadership skills and make a real difference.
Who Should Run? We encourage all full voting members to consider running, whether you're a seasoned professional or looking to take your first steps into a leadership role. If you're passionate about our mission and ready to contribute your time and expertise, we want to hear from you.
Important Deadlines To ensure your nomination is considered, all steps must be completed and submitted by Friday, August 2, 2024. Incomplete submissions will not be accepted. Voting will take place online from Monday, August 12 to Friday, August 30. Winners are asked to attend the NAGW virtual member meeting (date TBD) to get acquainted with current and new board members. For more information, contact your region or at-large director.
How to Nominate
Submit Nomination: Nominations must first be made in writing and emailed to the board secretary at [email protected] or mailed to:
Debbie Deacy ([email protected]) Web Services Manager DuPage County 421 N. County Farm Rd. Wheaton, IL 60187
Include the region name and position in your nomination letter. Any current full voting member may nominate any full voting member, including themselves, for the position of director. Once your nomination letter has been submitted, the board secretary will acknowledge receipt.
Submit Nominee Questionnaire, Two Letters Of Reference, Photo/Bio: Complete the NAGW board nominee questionnaire prior to the nomination due date. Responses to questionnaires will be posted along with the candidate's name and photo in the members-only area for your region members to review. All required materials can be submitted via the questionnaire.
Submit a candidate photo (files types: png, jpg, or gif )
Submit two letters of reference (files types: txt, rtf, pdf, doc, or docx)
Responses will be posted along with the candidate's name and photo in the members-only section of the NAGW website for your region members to review.
Elected Regions/At Large Positions 2024
Board members in three NAGW regions and one at-large position will be up for election in 2024. Additionally, two vacant seats are up for a one-year term. View the region map and review the NAGW bylaws for more details.
The three regions and one at-large board positions up for regular two-year terms are:
Region 2 - Lakes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin Current Director: Debbie Deacy
Region 4 - East Delaware, Maryland, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia Current Director: Marcus Townsend
Region 6 - West American Samoa, Alaska, California, Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington Current Director: Jesse Ruiz
At Large (2) Current Director: Colleen Kilian
The two vacant seats that are up for a one-year term are:
Region 1 - Midwest Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota Current Director: Vacant
At Large (1) Current Director: Vacant
Get Involved!
Serving on the NAGW Board is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on our organization and the broader government web community. We look forward to receiving your nominations and working together to continue driving our mission forward.
Thank you for your dedication and commitment to NAGW!
June Fireside Chat - Adobe Express: A Burst of Design Inspiration!
Jun. 20, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW Fireside Chat! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Presenter: Andrea Batts-Latson, Instructional System Specialist at Defense Information School
Date and Time:Wednesday, June 26th, 12:00 p.m. CST
Get ready for a burst of design inspiration! Join Andrea Batts-Latson as she showcases Adobe Express's newest features and their potential to transform your creative work. Batts-Latson, who manages the Defense Information School (DINFOS) website and teaches graphic and web design at Frederick Community College, will guide you through Adobe Express's latest features, offering insider tips to optimize your design process. You'll be equipped with new skills and knowledge to enhance your projects across social media, marketing, and beyond.
Spark your creativity with the latest Adobe Express updates.
See how new features can transform your visual projects.
Explore fun design possibilities.
Walk away with actionable ideas for your next project.
Whether you're an Adobe beginner or expert, this session is for you! We'll have time for an interactive Q&A session following her presentation.
Special July Webinar: Navigating the New ADA Title II Rule on Web and Mobile App Accessibility: Insights for State and Local Governments
Jun. 18, 2024
We're excited to announce a special NAGW webinar that you won't want to miss! For this exclusive event, we're opening the doors to everyone. That's right – whether you're a member or not, you can join us live! However, only active NAGW members will have access to the recording afterward.
To register, simply click the "Register Now" link below. If you’re not yet a member, now is the perfect time to join and enjoy full access to all our invaluable resources and recordings.
Don't forget to share your excitement and thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics – your input helps us bring you the best content possible.
We look forward to your participation in this special event!
Navigating the New ADA Title II Rule on Web and Mobile App Accessibility: Insights for State and Local Governments
On April 24, 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) published a final rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure the accessibility of web content and mobile applications (apps) for people with disabilities. This final rule adopts the June 2018 version of WCAG 2.1, Level AA as the technical standard for accessibility of state and local governments’ services, programs, and activities offered via the web and mobile apps. In this webinar, the DOJ will provide an overview of the legal requirements, exceptions, and compliance deadlines under the final rule.
We also invite you to submit any questions you have for the DOJ representative using this link: Submit Your Questions.
Presenter: Rebecca Guterman, Attorney Advisor, Disability Rights Section, U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division
Date and Time: Tuesday, July 9th, 11:00 a.m. CST
Enter the 2024 Pinnacle Awards and Showcase Your Excellence!
Jun. 10, 2024
We are excited to announce that the 2024 Pinnacle Awards are now open for submissions! These awards celebrate outstanding achievements in digital government innovation, and we invite you to participate and showcase your exceptional work in transforming government services.
Key Dates
Competition Opens: Monday, June 10, 2024
Submission Deadline:Friday, August 2, 2024
Awards Presentation: Date to be determined
Pricing
Member Price:$150 per award
Non-Member Price: $250 per award
Award Categories
Pinnacle Award for Excellence in Government Web Design: Recognizes the best City/County, Federal, State, NGO, Microsite, and Custom websites.
Award for Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement: Celebrates innovative digital programs, services, or campaigns designed to engage users.
Steven Michael Moore Pinnacle Award: Honors a nominee for excellence in the government web profession.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain recognition for your hard work and dedication. We look forward to seeing your innovative projects and exceptional web designs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]
May Webinar: Positioning Governments for the Future with the Government AI Coalition
May. 13, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Positioning Governments for the Future with the Government AI Coalition
Created using "Electronics and screens in a still life like a Dutch Renaissance painting" using Microsoft Image Creator
Join members of the Government AI Coalition to learn about their work developing policies and procedures to responsibly engage with AI. They're committed to:
Using AI for social good,
Ensuring ethical, non-discriminatory, and responsible AI governance,
Promoting vendor accountability,
Improving government services, and
Fostering cross-agency collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Don't miss this opportunity to benefit from the collective knowledge of countless hours of collaboration among great minds from across the country.
Presenters: Albert Gehami, City Privacy Officer, City of San José Anthony Fisher, Head of Data Governance, Colorado Department of Revenue
Date and Time:May 22, 2024 at 1 p.m. CST
May Fireside: How I Built an Intranet in SharePoint
Apr. 24, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
How I Built an Intranet in SharePoint
Come find out how Colleen took the City of Champaign's old intranet and revamped it into something modern, fun and informative...with a feature out of a platform they switched to a couple months prior at NO additional cost. See what other "SharePoint" sites she has created plus time to chat and show what you've done with YOUR Intranet...if you have one.
Presenter: Colleen Killian, Systems Administrator, City of Champaign
Date and Time:May 2, 2024 at 12 p.m. CST
Missed Our Fireside Chat? Catch Up & Join Our Next Webinar!
Mar. 7, 2024
Hello NAGW Members,
If you missed our live Fireside Chat with Chris Coleman and Lauren Henry, don't worry—the replay is now available for you to watch at your convenience. 🌟
During their awesome session on February 27, 2024, Chris and Lauren from Chesterfield County shared invaluable insights into leveraging data analytics for web content management and detailed their award-winning Analytics Wrapped project. (so cool!)
While you are there, you'll also find the opportunity to register for our next webinar titled "6 Web Design Accessibility Issues and How to Avoid Them." This session, led by Michaela Lederman, Senior Accessibility & QA Lead, and Ken Woodworth, VP of Design, Partner, at Aten Design Group, will be held on March 26, 2024, at 1 p.m. CST. They will delve into the integration of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) with client branding to craft accessible and user-friendly website designs, highlighting six common design pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Don't miss this chance to elevate your skills and knowledge. Register now at https://nagw.org/webinars.
Warmest regards, Your NAGW Board
P.S. We're always looking to provide you with content that matters. Let us know any topics or speakers you'd love to see in our future webinars. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us.
March Webinar: 6 Web Design Accessibility Issues and how to Avoid Them
Mar. 3, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
6 Web Design Accessibility Issues and how to Avoid Them
On Tuesday, Mar. 26, join Aten's VP of Design and Aten's QA & Accessibility Lead as they walk through how they work together usingWeb Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and client branding to create accessible and usable website designs. Together, they will explain the six most common design issues based on WCAG standards. After the webinar, attendees will:
Have an understanding of what areas they need to focus on when creating accessible website designs
Understand how these issues relate to certain WCAG guidelines
Know how to avoid these issues in the future
When: Tuesday, March 26th @ 1 p.m. CST Presenters: Michaela Lederman, WAS and Ken Woodworth, Aten Design Group
February Webinar: Fireside Chat with Chris and Lauren
Feb. 5, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Fireside Chat with Chris and Lauren
On Tuesday, Feb. 27, join Chesterfield County’s Chris Coleman and Lauren Henry for a “Fireside Chat with Chris and Lauren,” an informal session with a general focus on data tracking of user journeys, using website analytics to identify trends and tell a story, and then how to use that information to inform content audits and convince stakeholders.
At the Commonwealth of Virginia Innovative Technology Symposium (COVITS) in September 2023, Chesterfield was the recipient of a Commonwealth Technology Award in the category of Innovative Use of Big Data and Analytics for their Analytics Wrapped project. Analytics Wrapped focused on how Chesterfield is revolutionizing the way they engage with their community members online by basing it on a data-driven strategy for web-content management.
Currently finishing a years-long audit of their content and navigation and about to launch a new website in mid-Q2 2024, Chris and Lauren are ready to chat about how a content refresh can lay the foundation for a future redesign, including the planning process, conducting the audit, and engaging your partner departments and content contributors in implementing updates.
For this fireside chat, come with questions and be ready for an interactive and lively discussion. Teamwork makes the dreamwork!
When: Tuesday, February 27th @ 1 p.m. CST Presenters: Chris Coleman and Lauren Henry, Chesterfield County
January Webinar: Enhancing Government Documents for Better Public Engagement
Jan. 8, 2024
Join us for our next NAGW webinar! To register, log in to the NAGW website and visit our webinar page. Registration is exclusive to active NAGW members, so please ensure your membership is current. If you’re not yet a member, consider joining us today. Share your thoughts on the webinar using #NAGWwebinar. We also welcome your suggestions for future topics. Looking forward to your participation!
Enhancing Government Documents for Better Public Engagement
Konveio is a Document Engagement Platform that is traditionally used by local governments to facilitate productive qualitative feedback directly on drafted plans and policies. However, Konveio has developed just about any and every feature one could want to better present their adopted planning documents as easy-to-read interactive plans. Now it's time to get feedback from experts .
During this webinar, there will be a presentation and walkthrough of Konveio's capabilities for publishing including live examples, followed by a facilitated discussion, and an open Q/A.
Topics for discussion include:
Creating consistency in the ways that plans (drafted by various departments) are presented to the public.
Drawing the lines to separate which documents should be converted into simple landing pages, left as static PDFs, or transformed into interactive project websites or digital experiences.
Balancing the trade-off between presenting the full breadth and depth of plan information with the interests of accessibility, approachability, translation, and usability.
Approaches to seamlessly associate plans and policies with their related resources, like interactive ArcGIS Maps and videos.
When: Wednesday, January 24th @ 1 p.m. CST Presenter: Zane Taylor, Product Marketing Manager at Konveio
NAGW 2023 Pinnacle Awards Winners
Sep. 27, 2023
2023 Pinnacle Awards
The NAGW Pinnacle Awards are an annual celebration of the best in government web communications, design, development, and innovation. These awards recognize the hard work and dedication of government web professionals who are committed to delivering exceptional digital experiences for their citizens.
Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement DuPage County Victims of Domestic Violence QR Code Project
Steve Michael Moore Award Leslie Labrecque - City of Boulder
NAGW Annual Member Meeting - October 25, 2023
Sep. 25, 2023
Dear NAGW Members,
We are excited to announce our upcoming Annual Member Meeting, which will be held virtually on October 25, 2023. We encourage all members to attend to participate in shaping the future of NAGW.
Meeting Details: Date: October 25, 2023 Time: 1 pm to 2 pm CST Register: https://nagw.org/webinars Agenda: Announce 2023-2024 board of directors, financial report, and membership feedback.
Why Attend?
The Annual Member Meeting is an opportunity for you to: Stay Informed: Get updates on the organization's activities, achievements, and plans. Voice Your Opinion: Share your insights, suggestions, and concerns with the leadership and fellow members. Network: Connect with other members, build professional relationships, and exchange ideas. Shape the Future: Contribute to decision-making processes impacting the organization's direction.
We look forward to your participation in the Annual Member Meeting. Your involvement is crucial in ensuring the continued success and growth of NAGW. Thank you for your dedication and support.
Sincerely, Jason Huber NAGW President
Virtual Event Series & Pinnacle Awards - September 28, 2023
Sep. 22, 2023
Hey NAGW Members!
#GovTech community! This Thursday, Sept. 28, at 1 p.m. CT, we've got something special lined up for you.
First, tune in to our Virtual Event Series featuring Sanford Hess, IT Director for the City of Urbana, IL. He'll dive into "The Tectonic Speed of Government," a must-hear for anyone in #Gov and tech. 🏛️💻
But wait, there's more! Stick around because right after Sanford's talk, we're rolling out the red carpet for our annual Pinnacle Awards, sponsored by Granicus.
NAGW Needs You: Pinnacle Awards, Board Nominations and More
Aug. 2, 2023
Dear NAGW Members,
I hope this message finds you well. These are testing times for all of us, and more than ever, it's critical that we support each other and work collectively toward our shared mission.
Firstly, we want to remind everyone that the deadline for our Pinnacle Awards is just around the corner on August 11th. It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase your team's hard work and innovation. Please, don't hesitate to submit your entries – let's celebrate your achievements together!
In addition, we're looking for fresh voices and perspectives to help guide our organization into the future. The deadline for Board nominations is August 9th. We currently have five seats up for election, including two unoccupied due to a lack of nominations.
Serving on the NAGW Board is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our profession, collaborate with peers, and help shape the direction of our association. If you or someone you know could be a good fit, we encourage you to step forward.
The NAGW is at a crucial juncture. With the unfortunate cancellation of our in-person conference due to low registrations and the recent departure of our association management company, the Board is working tirelessly to keep our community vibrant and beneficial for all members. But we need your help.
Whether through the Pinnacle Awards, serving on the Board, or simply engaging with your fellow members, every action makes a difference. We believe in the power of our community, and together, we can overcome these challenges and continue to grow and learn.
Thank you for being a part of the NAGW family. Your support means everything.
Jason Huber
NAGW President
Important Update: 2023 Pinnacle Awards Deadline Extended to August 11th!
Jul. 28, 2023
Attention all government web professionals!
Exciting news! The deadline for the 2023 National Association of Government Web Professionals Pinnacle Awards has been extended to August 11, 2023!
You now have more time to showcase your outstanding work in government web design and digital innovation. Don't miss this chance to shine and be recognized among the best in the field.
Mark your calendars for the virtual event on September 28, 2023, where we'll come together to celebrate the brilliance of our talented community.
(Note: Your contributions inspire us all to keep learning and growing together! 🌱)
2023 Pinnacle Awards Call for Entries
May. 30, 2023
Start your engines and ignite the race towards an extraordinary achievement! We are thrilled to announce the call for entries for the 2023 National Association of Government Web Professionals Pinnacle Awards.
Don't miss this chance to display your expertise and take the lead in government web design and digital innovation. Apply today and compete in the following award categories:
Pinnacle Award for Excellence in Government Web Design: Accelerate towards success with outstanding City/County, Federal, State, NGO, Microsite, and Custom websites.
Award for Excellence in Digital Innovation and Engagement: Ignite the competition with groundbreaking digital programs, services, or campaigns designed to engage users.
Steven Michael Moore Pinnacle Award: Nominate one of your outstanding colleagues for this excellence in government award.
The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2023, so fuel your ambition and join the race today!