Events

Columbia Engineering Faculty Speaker Series Returns with a Look at Accessible Video Gaming

Columbia Engineering welcomed staff for the return of its Faculty Speaker Series, an initiative presented in partnership with Engineering Community Engagement that offers staff an opportunity to connect with faculty and explore the exciting research, innovation, and discoveries happening across the School.

The series kicked off with Playing Blind: Making Video Games Equivalently Accessible, presented by Brian A. Smith, associate professor of computer science and director of Columbia's Computer-Enabled Abilities Laboratory (CEAL). Professor Smith shared how his research is helping make popular video games accessible to blind players through innovative sound-based technology, demonstrating how inclusive design can transform gaming experiences and expand accessibility for everyone.

Held in Mudd 1127, the event provided an opportunity for staff to step away from their daily responsibilities, engage directly with Columbia Engineering faculty, and gain insight into the innovative research and discoveries taking place across the School.

November 11, 2026

About the Presentation
Throughout the session, Professor Smith explored how his research team collaborated with blind gamers to develop technologies that allow players to navigate and interact with video games through sound rather than sight. Through demonstrations and examples, attendees learned how these innovations are making complex gaming experiences more accessible, including their integration into Forza Motorsport on Xbox and PC.

The presentation highlighted the real-world impact of Columbia Engineering research and demonstrated how technology developed in an academic setting can help address accessibility challenges and create more inclusive experiences.

Program Impact:

  • Introduced staff to innovative research in accessibility, inclusive design, and emerging technologies.
  • Highlighted how Columbia Engineering faculty research translates into practical, real-world applications.
  • Provided an opportunity for staff to learn directly from faculty and gain a deeper understanding of the School's academic and research mission.
  • Encouraged curiosity, learning, and engagement beyond staff members' day-to-day responsibilities.
  • Created opportunities for staff to connect with colleagues and explore new ideas.

Looking Ahead

The Faculty Speaker Series aims to foster curiosity, encourage learning, and strengthen connections across the Columbia Engineering community by highlighting the exciting research and discoveries taking place throughout the School.

We welcome suggestions for future sessions! If there is a faculty member, research topic, or area of innovation you would like to learn more about, or if you are a faculty member interested in sharing your research with our staff community, please reach out to [email protected].

We thank Professor Smith for sharing his research and helping us kick off the return of this exciting initiative. We look forward to welcoming staff to future sessions as we continue celebrating the remarkable work of Columbia Engineering faculty and strengthening connections to our School's academic and research mission.