Focusing on Engagement and Access Using the 5-Star Guide to NODA Program Planning

The 5-Star Guide to NODA Program Planning: Focusing on Engagement and Access serves as a comprehensive framework for fostering meaningful participation and ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to fully engage with NODA programs. Rooted in a commitment to thoughtful planning, intentional outreach, and continuous improvement, this guide provides a structured approach to creating programs that are welcoming, representative, and accessible to all.

As program planners progress through each star level, they will refine their approach, integrating participant feedback, strengthening partnerships, and upholding a commitment to continuous learning. Ultimately, this guide is designed to inspire innovation, accountability, and excellence in program planning—ensuring that engagement and access remain at the forefront of every initiative.

Star Level 1: Foundation

1. Establish Engagement and Access Commitment
   • Set measurable SMART goals
   • Define and document your engagement and access objectives aligned with NODA’s mission.
   • Develop a clear engagement and access statement to communicate your commitment.
2. Assemble a Planning Team
   • Ensure the planning committee that is representative of the membership body and unique perspectives from work, life, and experiences.
   • Engage advisors or consultants specializing in engagement and access to guide the planning process
3. Complete NODA Program Planning Training Module
   • Provide basic NODA Program Planning training via Canvas for all planning team members.

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Star Level 2: Engagement

1. Develop Accessible Program Content 
   • Select session topics that address a range of perspectives, identities, and experiences.
   • Align program outcomes with the NODA Core Competencies
   • Recruit speakers from varied backgrounds
2. Create and Implement Accessibility Plan
   • Plan for comprehensive accommodations, including ASL interpreters, captioning, and accessible venues, based on the NODA Accessibility Checklist
   • Clearly communicate the availability of these services to attendees.
3. Coordinate Marketing Strategies
   • Develop marketing materials that generate a sense of belonging. 
   • Utilize varied communication channels to reach a broad audience.
   • Be transparent in communication about what engagement will look like in the program, as well as registration costs and scholarship opportunities. 

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Star Level 3: Implementation

1. Incorporate Interactive and Accessible Sessions
   • Incorporate interactive sessions that encourage participation from all attendees.
   • Designate affinity spaces.
   • Ensure visual presentations are optimized for accessibility
2. Provide Networking Opportunities
   • Create networking events that foster interactions across a variety of personal and professional experiences.
   • Ensure opportunities are accessible and welcoming to all participants.
3. Engage with Multiple Stakeholders
   • Ensure representation from different voices in planning and execution, leveraging NODA Communities to maximize engagement. 

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Star Level 4: Analysis and Improvement

1. Collect Feedback
   • Include standard Engagement and Access questions in post-event evaluations (Likert scale: Strongly Agree, Somewhat Agree, Somewhat Disagree, Strongly Disagree, Unable to Judge).
     1. I felt welcomed at the event. 
     2. Session topics addressed a range of perspectives, identities, and experiences.
     3. Accommodation options were clearly communicated to me as an attendee (e.g. captioning services, accessible venues, etc.)
     4. This event provided networking opportunities that fostered interactions across a variety of personal and professional experiences. 
2. Analyze Evaluations 
   • Analyze feedback to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
   • Report outcomes and improvements to the Association and stakeholders.
3. Implement Strategies for Continuous Improvement
   • Make necessary adjustments to the program based on feedback.
   • Use feedback from the Association to enhance programming.

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Star Level 5: Excellence

1. Achieve and Sustain Goals
   • Revisit SMART goals for your program and ensure that they are sustainable.
   • Regularly monitor progress and maintain accountability.
2. Build Strong Partnerships
   • Collaborate with NODA Communities, Committees, or leaders to enhance program content and reach.
3. Lead by Example
   • Share your successes and best practices with other NODA programs and the wider community.
     1. Host a Webinar
     2. Submit an article to the NODAfications
     3. Start a post in the NODA Communities Forum

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