Biden Appoints New Member to U.S. Access Board

President Joe Biden has appointed Betty R. Siegel of Virginia as a new member to the U.S. Access Board on December 6, 2024. Siegel, who currently serves as Director of the Office of Accessibility and VSA at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, brings extensive experience in accessibility practices within arts and culture.

Siegel succeeds Greg Fehribach, who was originally appointed by President Obama in 2016 and served as both Chair and Vice-Chair between 2020 and 2024. The President has also reappointed Stephanie L. Enyart and Madeline Rose Ruvolo to serve until December 2028.

The appointment appears to be a strategic choice, as Siegel's background combines practical experience in implementing accessibility solutions with international expertise in disability rights. Her specialization in arts and culture accessibility, along with her knowledge of emerging assistive technologies, positions her well to contribute to the Board's mission of advancing full access and inclusion for all Americans.

The U.S. Access Board is an independent federal agency that provides leadership in accessible design under the ADA and other laws, with a governing body of 25 members representing both federal departments and public appointees.