For Michael Hudson, facing a lifelong progressive vision loss was never a signal to pull back. It was an invitation to innovate.
Diagnosed at a young age, Hudson grew up in a rural area without sight-impaired role models. However, encouragement from his grandfather instilled a core philosophy early on: A challenge isn’t a dead end but a call to find a different way until you succeed.
“My experience informed me about how situations can be forced upon us in ways that we don’t expect,” he said. “We don’t welcome it generally, but it’s all about how we can learn to adapt to it that really turns out a success story in the end.”
When Hudson adapted to changing eyesight as a student, technology became an essential part of his workflow. By 1986, carrying an early-model laptop computer to class allowed him to type notes faster than he or his peers could write, illustrating firsthand how accessibility tools transform potential into performance.
“Disabilities need not limit achievement; they merely mandate a greater level of creativity, commitment and innovation,” he said.
That commitment to practical problem-solving defined Hudson’s 32-year career at Michigan State University. Starting in 1992 as a specialist before becoming director of the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities, he focused on expanding accommodations and student success.
Hudson’s drive for improving accessibility naturally extended into the local business community. As a dedicated member of MSU Federal Credit Union, he recognized early on that financial independence required equitable access. Facing the challenge of hard-to-read ATM screens, Hudson reached out to then- CEO Pat McPharlin about introducing audio-assisted technology. Despite initial technical hurdles across banking networks, the credit union persisted, becoming a pioneer in offering talking ATMs in Michigan.
Hudson later joined MSUFCU’s supervisory committee and served on its board of directors, recently transitioning to emeritus status in May. Throughout his tenure, he worked with leadership to test digital platforms, mobile applications and web accessibility standards long before they became commonplace.
Hudson emphasized that accessible design should never be viewed as an added burden or compliance expense. By building tools using mainstream platform standards from the ground up, businesses naturally expand their customer base, streamline operations and foster brand affinity. Looking to the future, Hudson sees emerging artificial intelligence and remote platforms as major steps forward for equity.
Ultimately, he credits the Greater Lansing region’s strong educational institutions with building a talent pipeline rooted in inclusion. Education helps individuals reframe unexpected barriers into unique strengths, equipping workers with skills that drive the regional economy.
“Our higher education institutions are all pathways for people to begin thinking bigger, gain skills and then develop this community into what it is — a fantastic place to live, work and dream,” Hudson said.
Stacy Bogard
Stacy Bogard is a senior content and PR strategist at M3 Group and is a writing and editing contributor for 517 Business. A native of East Lansing, she’s active with the Junior League of Lansing and Central Michigan chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. She also loves watching sports and traveling.
