Rachael Sessler Trinkowsky
Areas of Expertise
Access to technology for people with vision loss, digital accessibility within online learning environments and higher education, developing graduate-level programming and curricula to train assistive technology (AT) professionals, teaching AT software to people with visual impairments, providing assessments, case management, and recommendations for AT and accommodations, supporting people with multiple disabilities, including low vision and blindness
Degrees
PhD, Computing Technology in Education, Nova Southeastern University
Master of Health Science, Rehabilitation Counseling, University of Florida
BA, Special Education, University of Florida
Professional Publications & Contributions
- Sessler Trinkowsky, R. (2015). Interpretative phenomenological analysis of accessibility awareness among faculty in online learning environments.
- Sessler Trinkowsky, R., Tikkun, S., Anderson, K., Bizuk, K., Futty, A., & Wadors Verne, L. (January 2020). VHT strand spotlight [presentation]. Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference, Orlando, FL.
- Sessler Trinkowsky, R., Tikkun, S., & Ferguson, D. (January 2020). Practitioner’s handbook on AT implementation for people with visual impairments [presentation]. Assistive Technology Industry Association Pre-Conference Seminar, Orlando, FL.
Additional Information
Rachael Sessler Trinkowsky prepares accessible curriculum and develops coursework for the Vision Studies Program in the UMass Boston School for Global Inclusion and Social Development. In this role, Sessler Trinkowsky supports the assistive technology (AT) certificate, extended graduate certificate, and master’s degree program, preparing professionals to become AT instructional specialists for people with visual impairments. She also recruits and advises students in the AT track.
Sessler Trinkowsky is also adjunct faculty and a guest lecturer at the University of Illinois at Chicago specializing in AT training. Previously, she worked at Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches in West Pam Beach, FL, as a technology training and vocational coordinator. In addition to technology training, Sessler Trinkowsky has experience as a senior rehabilitation specialist for people who are blind or have low vision.
Sessler Trinkowsky serves as a dissertation committee member for Nova Southeastern University. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist.