Lauren Lee | Aug 1, 2025 - Atlanta, GA

For immediate release

The Georgia Tech Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation (CIDI) is pleased to announce the selection of Bill Curtis-Davidson as the Center’s Executive Director. 

A Georgia Tech alum, Curtis-Davidson brings over twenty-five years of experience in academia and industry. He specializes in bridging emerging technology accessibility research into practice to benefit people with disabilities. 

“Since I left Tech as a researcher and adjunct faculty in Industrial Design, my career has given me the opportunity to gain global experience in accessibility,” says Curtis-Davidson. “A consistent focus of mine has been exploring how to bake inclusive design into an organization’s DNA, while creating environments where disabled people can drive that integration informed by their lived experiences."

Curtis-Davidson is widely recognized in the field for his translational research, his award-winning thought leadership on accessibility of emerging technologies (including immersive technologies and AI), and his expertise in human-centered design. 

“Bill Curtis-Davidson brings a rare combination of technical expertise, passion for accessibility, and a deep connection to the state of Georgia,” says Ellen Basset, Dean of the College of Design. “I'm very pleased that he has come back home to Georgia Tech.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Bill Curtis-Davidson back to Georgia Tech, where his journey in accessibility began,” agrees Alexander Lerch, Associate Dean for Research and Creative Practice at the College of Design. “His return as Executive Director of CIDI brings full circle a career defined by innovation, leadership, and a deep commitment to inclusive design.” 

Interim Executive Director Zerrin Ondin-Fraser is pleased about Curtis-Davidson’s selection as well. “[Curtis-Davidson’s] background in inclusive technology, policy, and strategy will bring new energy and ideas to CIDI. I’m confident his thoughtful leadership will guide CIDI into its next phase with clarity and vision, while keeping us grounded in the values that define our work,” she says. 

Curtis-Davidson’s appointment marks a significant step forward in CIDI’s mission to create a more accessible and inclusive world through research, education, and service. With his visionary leadership, deep cross-sector experience, and unwavering commitment to accessibility, CIDI is poised to expand its impact with Curtis-Davidson at the helm.