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| Kevonia Adamson Virtual Reality/Adult Teen Specialist, Easterseals of Alabama |
| Kevonia Adamson is dedicated to serving as a Virtual Reality/Adult Teen Specialist for Easterseals in the Birmingham area. In her role, she leads the Virtual Career Exploration program as the Technology Instructor, utilizing Oculus technology to provide students with immersive career exploration experiences. Kevonia’s commitment to community service and servant leadership began during her high school years while volunteering for YouthServe Birmingham. Throughout college, as a Bonner Scholar at Berea College, she continued her service work and developed a passion for diversity, inclusivity, and disability awareness. Kevonia’s journey was influenced by her daughter’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy, spurring her onto a path of advocacy and awareness. Combining her nonprofit experience as an Americorps member at the YWCA of Central Alabama and her roles as a children’s book author and small business entrepreneur, Kevonia embodies the motto: “The Best is Yet to Come!”
Session: Unlocking Potential: Assistive Technology Across Life's Spectrum |
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| Samantha Arceneaux Development Director, Jefferson County Greenways |
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Session: ADA Accommodations: Going Above and Beyond in Recreational Spaces |
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| Deidra C. Atkinson, BSBME Rehabilitation Engineer, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services |
| Deidra C. Atkinson, BSBME, has worked with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services since 2020. Her work within the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Program serves several divisions of ADRS, including SAIL, CRS, and VR. She aids Alabamians with disabilities address barriers to their home, community, school, and work goals by providing assistive technologies and methods. Her work involves specialized focuses on transition-age groups, Deaf and HOH, and TBI. She brings several years of experience in the medical field, clinical research, and lifespan research with her.
Session: Sound Choices: Empowering Independence with Aural Alternatives |
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| Ben Baily Manager of Transition Services, United Abi |
| As the Manager of Transition Services at United Ability, Ben Bailey leads a team of professionals who provide career counseling, job placement, and coaching to individuals with disabilities. He is passionate about empowering people to achieve their employment goals and aspirations. He attended the University of North Alabama, where he studied Mass Communications and Public Relations. He is committed to advancing the mission and vision of United Ability, and to making a difference in the lives of the people they serve.
Session: Sound Choices: Panel Discussion of AAC Users and Job Experiences |
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| Chris Biggins Director of Player Development, County Club of Birmingham |
| Chris Biggins, an accomplished athlete with cerebral palsy, has excelled in both golf and para-alpine skiing. A former para-alpine skier, Chris spent eight years (2014-2022) skiing on the U.S. Paralympic Development Team, based in Park City, Utah. After transitioning from skiing, Chris turned his focus to adaptive golf, where he quickly rose to prominence. Currently ranked #12 in the world and #2 in the USA, Chris achieved his highest global ranking—#3—early in 2024 before taking a brief hiatus following the birth of his son. He competes on the prestigious G4D Tour, a worldwide tour for adaptive golfers, and has played in events across Australia, Dubai, Kenya, Ireland, England, Northern Ireland, Spain, and the USA.
A graduate of Methodist University, where he played collegiate golf, Chris now serves as the Director of Player Development at the Country Club of Birmingham. He is also a dedicated board member at United Ability, contributing to his community and supporting individuals with disabilities.
Sessions: Keynote Panel |
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| Christopher Bugaj, MA CCC-SLP Educational Experience Designer |
| Christopher R. Bugaj, MA CCC‐SLP is the Assistive Technology Specialist for Loudoun County Public Schools. Chris co-hosts the Talking With Tech podcast featuring interviews and conversations about augmentative and alternative communication and has hosted The A.T.TIPSCAST; a multi‐award winning podcast featuring strategies to design educational experiences. Chris is the author of The New Assistive Tech: Make Learning Awesome For All first and second editions, published by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). Chris is the co-author of Inclusive Learning 365: EdTech Strategies for Every Day of the Year and The Practical (and Fun) Guide to Assistive Technology in Public Schools both of which are also published by ISTE. Chris co-authored two chapters for a book published by Brookes Publishing titled Technology Tools for Students with Autism. Chris co‐produces and co‐authors the popular Night Light Stories podcast which features original stories for children of all ages. Chris has presented over 650 live or digital sessions at local, regional, state, national and international events, including TEDx.
Sessions: Designing Awesome and Inclusive Educational Experiences Using Generative AI, Let's Get Organized |
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| Kelly Cadden, MCD, CCC-SLP, ATP Speech-Language Pathologist, ALL For Children |
| Kelly Cadden is a Speech/ Language Pathologist who specializes in AAC/ AT. Kelly graduated with her undergrad and masters from Auburn University- War Eagle! She has been a SLP for almost 15 years and she co- owns a private practice (ALL For Children) in Auburn, AL. ALL For Children serves children's speech/language, dyslexia, and OT needs. She provides AT/AAC therapy, evaluations, consultation, and training to local school systems. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family at the lake or watching her boys play sports.
Session: There is No "I" in the AT Team |
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| Cathy Carver, PT, DPT, ATP/SMS Physical Therapist, UAB Medicine |
| Dr Carver has been a practicing physical therapist for 28 years with the last 20 years working in assistive technology providing evaluations and fittings for adults needing custom wheelchairs and adaptive mobility devices. She has presented nationally and internationally and published articles on various topics related to seating and wheeled mobility. She started "Come Roll With Me", a community disability awareness program in 2016 and it has grown and had a big impact. She and her husband Jeff and 2 children live in Hoover, AL.
Session: Come Roll With Me: Integrating Disability Awareness in Your Community |
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| Kandis Chatman, MS, CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist, Hoover City Schools |
| Kandis Chatman is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) at Deer Valley Elementary School in Hoover City Schools. She has 20 years of experience working in interdisciplinary clinics, Early Intervention, University clinics, and schools. Most recently, she was a Clinical Instructor at The University of Alabama (UA) in the Department of Communicative Disorders where she taught the Augmentative/Alternative Communication graduate course. She also served as the SLP at the UA RISE Center. Kandis has also worked as the Clinic Director in the Department of Communication Science and Disorders at the University of Montevallo. Prior to that, she was the lead SLP at Easter Seals Pediatric Therapy as well as the Program Manager. Kandis received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from Auburn University and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She holds Licensure from the Alabama Board of Examiners for Speech Pathology and Audiology. Kandis is the first Black President of the Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama (SHAA). She is also the 2022 recipient of the Honors of the Association Award for SHAA. Currently, she serves as the Membership Secretary, Ethical Practices Chair, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Chair of SHAA. Kandis’s passion and ministry is serving children with multiple abilities and complex communication needs.
Session: Collaborating Hits the SPOT! |
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| Summer Collins, MCD, CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist, Shelby County Schools |
| Summer Collins has worked with preschoolers with disabilities in the Alabama school system for the past 7 years. She received her Bachelor's degrees in communication disorders and Spanish at Auburn University, and she received her Masters of Communication Disorders at Auburn University as well. War Eagle! After externing at United Ability, Summer worked five years at the William E. Burkett Center of Jefferson County, serving their inclusive preschool classrooms. She is now working in the preschool department of Shelby County Schools, providing services in the local daycares and homes of Chelsea, Vincent, Columbiana, and Shelby, as well as in the inclusive preschool classrooms at the Linda Nolen Learning Center. Summer is passionate about shifting stakeholder’s mindsets about AAC that may be hindering buy-in. She also just loves how fun and rewarding speech therapy can be when we take the time to build a relationship with a child with complex communication needs.
Session: So You Want Me to do AAC in Schools? |
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| Brooke Cox Program Coordinator, United Ability |
| Brooke Cox has worked at United Ability for two years and enjoys finding creative solutions to support her clients in succeeding in the work place
Session: Empowering Inclusivity: Assistive Technology in Remote Work Environments |
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| Jessica Daiger District Manager, SafeInHome |
| Jessica’s mission is to educate the community on how to promote independence and self-determination through the use of Remote Supports. Jessica began working in the ID/DD Community over twelve years ago and has not looked back since. Her heart is fueled by helping others and seeking positive change throughout the community. Jessica has a young family and they enjoy being on the water during the summer.
Session: Elevating Independence Through Remote Supports |
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| Grace Davis Advocate, Equip |
| Grace Davis graduated from Vestavia Hills High School in 2020. After her high school graduation, she attended Auburn University and was in the EAGLES Program. She loved every minute of her college experience. She joined the AOPI sorority her freshman year at Auburn. She made so many great friends and memories. Grace graduated in May and started working at Gigi's Boutique and The Pants Store this week. She has a love for retail and she is so excited about working. Her goal is to move into an apartment with a roommate one day and live independently.
Session: Empowering Independence, Together |
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| Dawn Ellis, NBCT, Ed. S Special Educator, Pike Road Schools |
| Dawn Ellis is an experienced special education teacher and founder of Cultivating Exceptional Minds and Be The Exception in Special Education podcast. With over 15 years in the field and National Board Certification, Dawn specializes in creating resources and training programs for special education professionals. Her passion is helping teachers develop practical solutions to support their students' diverse needs.
Session: Implementing Assistive Technology in Special Education: A Practical Guide |
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| Ashley Ferry Executive Director, Hank Poore Foundation |
| Ashley Belcher Ferry is a native of Leeds, Alabama and has called Tuscaloosa home for over 25 years. She is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis and the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. After practicing law with Watson, deGraffenried and serving as the Executive Director of Christmas In April/Rebuilding Together, she retired to be a full-time mother to her four children.
Ashley has volunteered and served as a board member of many organizations, including The Shelton State Foundation, Foster Grandparents, Theatre Tuscaloosa, Arts and Autism, The Autism Society of Alabama, Cornerstone Schools of Alabama, Verner Elementary PTA, Christ Church ECW, and The Episcopal Diocese of Alabama’s Sawyerville Department. She is an active member of Christ Episcopal Church and the Tuscaloosa Multi-Church Committee. She is also a graduate of Leadership Tuscaloosa and the Women’s Foundation of Alabama Women’s Policy Institute Fellowship.
From 2022-23, Ashley worked with The Tuscaloosa City Schools to help open New Heights Community Resource Center, Alabama’s first school-based wraparound service center. In 2023, she transitioned from Board President of The Hank Poore Foundation to Executive Director and loves working with Hank to increase opportunities for those living with disabilities in Alabama.
Session: Inclusion in Action: The Power of Adaptive Recreation |
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| Daniel Green Rehabilitation Engineer, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services |
| Daniel earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Auburn University in 2018. He now serves as a Rehabilitation Engineer for North Alabama through the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. As a Rehabilitation Engineer, Daniel observes how individuals accomplish different tasks and recommends accommodations to assist with their job performance or reduce injury and discomfort. He has a comprehensive knowledge of current assistive technology solutions designed to address specific functions and eliminate barriers that exist as a result of a disability. Daniel works with individuals to meet a variety of needs across many different environments, including the workplace, school, home, and everyday life. With his engineering background, he can design and construct devices and systems to assist individuals with mobility, communication, cognition, vision, and hearing. Daniel has spent the last five years using engineering solutions to enable individuals with disabilities to achieve their maximum potential.
Session: Custom AT Solutions |
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| Bradley Heaven Vice President, All Access Life |
| Bradley was born with Nonverbal Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy, but he never lets it hold him back. He uses Assistive Technology which gives him a voice and allows him to live life to the fullest. Bradley co-founded All Access Life, which is a non-profit organization, designed to connect people with disabilities to trending adaptive products that are being released at an overwhelming rate in this day and age.
Sessions: The Rise of Adaptive Gaming, Squad Goals |
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| Abby Hedgepath, M.S., CCC-SLP SLP & Owner, Divergent Therapy Services |
| I graduated from The University of Alabama in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communicative Disorders and again in 2021 with a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. I have since worked in multiple settings including private practice, medical, and home health. I specialize in AAC, Gestalt Language Development, and medical speech therapy. I recently opened a company called Divergent Therapy Services where our mission includes making AAC accessible to more individuals in our community and providing more inclusive community events.
Session: Adult AACcess |
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| Michelle Henderson, OTR/L Occupational Therapist, Michelle Henderson, LLC |
| Michelle Henderson is a school based occupational therapist with 13 years of experience in both public and private school settings. After graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Occupational therapy program in 2011, she immediately began working in a school system and in an adult inpatient rehab setting. Pediatrics eventually pulled her in and she worked for an outpatient clinic and independently for a school system until forming her own LLC in 2022 in order to contract with school systems directly. She enjoys providing the most effective and personal school based occupational therapy services to her clients and pushes herself out of her comfort zone by presenting on the topic of assistive technology due to the incredible impact she has seen it play on her student's lives and the desire to share this invaluable knowledge.
Session: Empowering Students with Mid-Tech Assistive Technology |
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| Courtney Hertlein Employment Specialist, United Ability |
| Courtney has worked at United Ability for 1 year and embodies the mission through her advocacy efforts and unwavering dedication to fostering a more inclusive workforce
Session: Empowering Inclusivity: Assistive Technology in Remote Work Environments |
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| Suzanne Hoy Remote Supports Consultant, Safe in Home |
| Suzanne joined the SafeinHome team in October of 2021 when Remote Supports were introduced to Alabamians as another option to assist them in meeting their goals for independence. She loves having the ability to meet with individuals and their Support Circles to learn about them, their goals, and to educate them on this exciting new service! Suzanne is married with 3 adult sons and in her spare time she enjoys camping, swimming, baking and loving on her horses.
Session: Elevating Independence Through Remote Supports |
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| Clare Huddleston Anchor, WBRC 6 |
| Clare Huddleston anchors the WBRC 6 Now at 11 a.m. newscast and serves as executive producer of WBRC’s livestream platforms, producing unique content for the station’s streaming channels. She also produces and anchors a livestream-only newscast that airs each weekday.
Clare joined the WBRC News team in October 2011. For 10 years she served as an anchor and reporter for Good Day Alabama, covering everything from breaking news to light-hearted and human-interest stories. Some of the biggest stories she's covered while at WBRC include "Snowmageddon," the aftermath of the April 2011 tornados and the Covid pandemic.
Session: Keynote Panel Moderator |
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| Ingrid Kanics, OTR/L, FAOTA, CPSI Jefferson County Greenways |
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Session: ADA Accommodations: Going Above and Beyond in Recreational Spaces |
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| Elizabeth Kaufman, CTRS, CPRP, ADAC Therapeutic Programs Coordinator, City of Auburn |
| A Recreation Therapist for over 15 years, Elizabeth has worked in a variety of settings to support recreation opportunities, leisure education amongst people with special needs and people with dementia. She has also fostered advocacy and community integration in her roles, and strives for advancing inclusion every day.
Session: ADA Accommodations: Going Above and Beyond in Recreational Spaces |
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| Richard M. Kemmer, Jr., P.C. Attorney |
| Mitch Kemmer is in his 40th year of law practice with the last thirty years occurring in Centreville. A graduate of the University of Alabama, Mitch received his B. S. in Communications in 1980. While an undergraduate student, he was a member of the Alpha Epsilon Rho Communications Honorary Society and served as president of his fraternity. Mitch graduated from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1984 where he served as the Business Manager of the Alabama Law Review And was a member of the Bench and Bar Legal Honor Society. After 16 years of law practice, Mitch was injured in an automobile accident which resulted in a total loss of eyesight. After nine months of surgery and rehabilitation, Mitch attended the E. H. Gentry division of the Alabama Institute For Deaf and Blind in Talladega. His training included courses in assistive technology, braille and mobility. This training allowed Mitch to return to an active law practice, which includes the handling of criminal and civil trials. Mitch is married to his former law partner, Stephanie Woodham Kemmer, who is now the probate judge of Bibb County. Their family includes four children and five grandchildren.
Session: Surviving Through Assistive Technology |
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| Trent Kocurek is the founder and CEO of Equip, a groundbreaking software solution designed to support the journey to independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). With a bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems from Auburn University and 18 years of experience in the technology field, Trent has dedicated his career to developing software solutions for human-centered problems.
Session: Empowering Independence, Together |
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| Bob Lujano, MS PLY Program Manager NCHPAD, University of Alabama at Birmingham |
| Bob Lujano is currently employed as a Program Manager I working as an Expert Inclusion Specialist (EIS) at UAB for the School of Health Professions. Prior to that, Bob was employed at the Lakeshore Foundation, which is an official Olympic and Paralympic training site. He is an international public speaker who covers the topics of independence, faith, disability, leadership, competitive sports, the benefits of a healthy active lifestyle, diversity and inclusion.
Session: Let's eAT! Making Good Food with Cool Tech. |
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| Amy Marchant Occupational Therapist, Founder, Liv Equipt LLC |
| Amy Marchant is a licensed Occupational Therapist and founder of Liv Equipt LLC, located in Birmingham, Alabama. With a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from UAB, Amy has over 10 years of experience, primarily working with clients in their homes to regain their independence. Through her in-home OT experience, Amy has seen, first hand, that current home environments often exacerbate medical conditions and illnesses, making daily activities more challenging and potentially slowing the healing process. Amy expanded on her OT foundation to gain insight into accessibility, home modifications and design to create person-centered, functional spaces. She obtained the Executive Certificate in Home Modification (ECHM) from the University of Southern California, the CAPS designation (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) through the National Association of Home Builders, and achieved the CHAMPS recognition (Certified Home Accessibility and Modification Professional) to assist clients with catastrophic injuries. Amy is passionate about creating functional homes and empowering clients to regain their independence and enhance their quality of life through home-based therapy, home modifications and adaptive living. With the inception of a pediatric OT clinic in Vestavia Hills, AL -- Equipt Kids -- Amy Marchant has recently grown her team to serve children and families navigating life-altering challenges.
Session: Breaking Barriers: Transforming Aging and Disability with Adaptive Solutions |
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| Jessica McKay, MT-BC, ATP APTAT Assistive Technology Specialist, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services |
| Jessica is the Assistive Technology Specialist for Accessing Potential for Assistive Technology – Alabama’s AT Act program funded through the federal 21st Century Technology Act. Jessica has over 15 years experience in assistive technology. Before moving to Alabama, she was the assistive technology specialist for a large urban school district in El Paso, TX for over 12 years. Before joining APTAT, Jessica was the Director of Community Programs for Knowbility, a non-profit organization dedicated to making websites and digital content accessible to people with disabilities. She currently serves as an advisory board member for CAST’s AEM Center that focuses on Accessible Educational Materials for Learning and the Center on Inclusive Technology & Educational Systems. Jessica is also an active member of State Leadership on Assistive Technology in Education network.
Session: Smart Home Technology |
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| Lance McLemore Ambassador, Prentke Romich Company and the Center for AAC and Autism |
| Lance McLemore has been using AAC for about 12 years. He got his first high-tech communication aid whilst in university. Since getting access to AAC, his world has greatly expanded. His current language system is LAMP Words for Life on an Accent 1000, which he received in 2016. He graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a BA in studio art and philosophy. He still makes art in various media: drawing, painting, and fiber art. He currently works as an ambassador for the Prentke Romich Company and the Center for AAC and Autism. He attends AAC camps, workshops, conferences, schools, and universities to talk about and advocate for greater use and acceptance of AAC. His most important message is to remind people that the purpose of AAC is to make it easier to form relationships and increase inclusion in all spheres of life.
Session: Panel Discussion of AAC Users and Job Experiences |
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| Ashley McLeroy, MSME APTAT Director, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services |
| In 2010, Ashley McLeroy began working with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services as a Rehabilitation Engineer. Her role was to evaluate consumers of all ages with various disabilities in any environment and recommend AT systems or accommodations to enhance their abilities. While serving in that role she also enjoyed teaching others about Rehab Engineering through public speaking and offering job exploration opportunities for engineering students. In December 2022, she stepped into the role of director for the Alabama AT Act program, Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology (APT AT). She hopes to use her experience working with individuals with disabilities in the community and her knowledge of AT to develop a valuable resource that can expand the state’s capacity to provide AT services.
Session: Let's eAT! Making Good Food with Cool Tech. |
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| Meredith Mitchell, M. Ed Special Educator Teacher, Pike Road Schools |
| Meredith Mitchell is a special education teacher with over 20 years of experience. In 2021 she was named teacher of the year for the state of Alabama for District III. Meredith has her own special education consulting business called Meredith Mitchell’s Methods. She speaks at conference all over the south east educating other special educators on how to write IEPs that are manageable, measurable, and meaningful. She is also a Master IEP Coach. When she not teaching she spends time with her family. Meredith is married and has 3 children. She stays busy going to soccer games, tumbling practice, girl scout meetings, and taekwondo lessons.
Session: Implementing Assistive Technology in Special Education: A Practical Guide |
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| Daniel O'Connor President, All Access Life |
| Daniel is an enthusiast for diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. His passion for Assistive Technology has allowed him to assist people with disabilities in unlocking new possibilities. As Co-founder of All Access Life, Daniel is constantly on the lookout for new adaptive products & assistive technologies. All Access Life is a non-profit organization designed to empower people with disabilities through adaptive products that are being released at an overwhelming rate in this day and age. All Access Life is the product of a unique journey between Daniel and Bradley. Bradley was born with nonverbal spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy and uses assistive technologies to interact with the world and live life to the fullest. What started off as a job for Daniel in 2010, working as Brad's aide, has now turned into a friendship and a business venture. Daniel and Bradley strive to use their skills, experience and passion of adaptive products and assistive technologies to empower others.
Sessions: The Rise of Adaptive Gaming, Squad Goals |
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| Gabriella L. Orton Assistive Technology Trainer, Alabama Freedom Center for the Blind |
| I am a recent graduate of Blue Mountain Christian University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a concentration in Management. I have used products from different technologically oriented companies, such as HumanWare and freedom Scientific. I have used assistive technology to go through my schooling for a young age through college. I also have been in my current position teaching students how to use their assistive technology for about the last four and a half months.
Session: Creating PowerPoint Presentations for Work with a Screenreader |
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| Hank Poore Co-Founder, Hank Poore Foundation |
| Hank Poore is a 23-year-old man living with cerebral palsy. In 2020, Hank, along with his family and friends founded The Hank Poore Foundation to fund adaptive sports and recreation opportunities for those living with disabilities in Alabama. To date, The Hank Poore Foundation has funded almost $150,000 in individual and community grants, as well as educating about disability and assistive technology nationwide.
Sessions: Squad Goals, Inclusion in Action: The Power of Adaptive Recreation |
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| Kathy Poore Co-Founder, Hank Poore Foundation |
| Kathy Poore is an Alabama native who has called Tuscaloosa home for 22 years. She attended Auburn University and graduated with a BSN in Nursing from UAB School of Nursing in 1991. When her fourth child, Hank was born in 2000, she began educating herself about disability rights, inclusion, and adaptive opportunities for Hank, becoming his biggest advocate. Her biggest desire was that Hank would live a vibrant and full life—whatever that might look like for him. The seed for the Hank Poore Foundation was planted shortly after Hank cycled 158 miles with a close friend through the mountains of southwest Colorado. It was the adventure of a lifetime for Hank, and representative of that which the Hank Poore Foundation seeks to bring to other individuals with disabilities: inclusive communities and relationships, access to adaptive activities, and a greater sense of what is possible for those with disabilities. She is thrilled to see this vision finally coming to life, and thrilled to share her and Hank's experiences with adaptive recreation.
Session: Inclusion in Action: The Power of Adaptive Recreation |
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| Beth Poss, M.A., CCC/SLP SLP, Director of Educational Programs, LessonPix |
| Beth Poss is an educational and technology consultant, accessibility and inclusion advocate, speech/language pathologist, former special education administrator, and former assistant principal. In addition to her independent consulting, she is the Director of Educational Programs for LessonPix. Beth is passionate about designing educational environments that support all students in accessing a rigorous curriculum and meeting educational outcomes. In her work with school districts, universities and national and state level organizations she focuses on literacy, augmentative and alternative communication, Universal Design for Learning and inclusive educational practices. She is one of the authors of Inclusive Learning 365: EdTech Strategies for Every Day of the Year, released in August 2021.
Session: In a Story: Finding and Creating Resources to Use for Storybook Instruction Through a Comprehensive Literacy for All Framework |
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| Melissa Pouncey, MS CCC SLP AAC Consultant, PRC-Saltillo |
| Prior to joining PRC- Saltillo in 2023, Melissa worked for United Ability in Birmingham for 13 years, where she worked in outpatient providing AAC intervention and evaluations, early intervention, and preschool programs. Melissa also worked as a LAMP Trainer through the Center for AAC and Autism, and through this role loved seeing the beautiful work happening across the country. She has served on teams that provided therapy intervention and caregiver training in orphanages in China through a program called unadopted. To Melissa, working as an SLP and now a Consultant, is a way to continue to spread light and joy in her community.
Sessions: Grounding AAC Intervention in the Natural Environmen: Parent Coaching Through Routines Based Intervention, Panel Discussion of AAC Users and Job Experiences |
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| Tiffani Powell, M.S.,CCC-SLP Solutions Consultant, Tobii Dynavox |
| Tiffani is an AAC Solutions Consultant for Tobii Dynavox with 12 years experience as a Speech Language Pathologist in multiple settings. With a clinical background in child and adult populations, she is currently enjoying working with AAC across the lifespan. Tiffani is driven by relationships and connection. The desire to see everyone flourish with the gift of communication- which is the core of all relationships- fuels her to consistently engage with assistive technology in creative ways.
Session: Reimagining AAC in Acute Care |
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| Christopher Ramero-Garcia Student, Shades Valley High School |
| Christopher Ramero-Garcia is a senior at Shades Valley High School. Chris has been a LAMP Words for Life user for many years and now enjoys using his ViaPro Active. He has participated in the United Ability Summer Jets program twice and has worked at both Hibbett Sports and St. Vincent's Hospital. Chris enjoys his summer job in the community, lifting weights with his personal trainer, and playing with his dog. He is also an active member of the Spanish-speaking congregation at St. Francis Xavier.
Session: Panel Discussion of AAC Users and Job Experiences |
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| Amy Rauworth Chief Research and Innovation Officer, NCHPAD at Lakeshore Foundation |
| Amy Rauworth joined Lakeshore Foundation in 2012 as the Director of Policy and Public Affairs. She also works within the University of Alabama Birmingham/Lakeshore Foundation Research Collaborative where she is the Associate Director of the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD). Ms. Rauworth is a Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist with the American College of Sports Medicine. Ms. Rauworth conducts Inclusive Fitness trainings nationally on behalf of NCHPAD and specializes in accessible fitness center design. She serves on several national committees including the Paralympic Research and Sport Science Consortium, American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) F08.30 Fitness Products: WK19803 Inclusive Fitness Equipment Design Task Group, and National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Health and Wellness Advisory Panel. Through an initiative lead by UNICEF, The Global Partnership on Children with Disability (GPcwd), she co-chairs the task force on Physical Activity and Sport. She was appointed to CDC’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity Accessible Trails and Recreation Venues Work Group. In Alabama, Ms. Rauworth was appointed to the Alabama Trails Commission. Ms. Rauworth leads the content development, synthesis and training within NCHPAD. In addition, Ms. Rauworth has over 21 years of experience in health promotion development and implementation, focusing on the delivery of physical activity programming for people with disability across the lifespan.
Session: ADA Accommodations: Going Above and Beyond in Recreational Spaces |
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| Lane Rials, M.S.,CCC-SLP SLP & Associate AAC Specialist, Bridging Voice |
| Lane Rials is a Speech-Language Pathologist with a passion for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Assistive Technology, and helping individuals. Session: Eye Health, Dry Eye and Its Implications in Eye Tracking for People with ALS |
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| Carlee Sanford Executive Director, Jefferson County Greenways |
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Session: ADA Accommodations: Going Above and Beyond in Recreational Spaces |
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| Aaron Scheidies, DPT, TRX Instructor Physical Therapist and Elite Athlete |
| Aaron Scheidies is a 42-year-old that has overcome more in his short life than many conquer in a lifespan. Despite progressively losing his vision since age nine, Aaron is a ten-time triathlon World Champion, 2010 ESPN ESPY Finalist, /Three-time Boston Marathon VI Champion and 2016 Paralympian. Just as he is a multi-dimensional athlete, he also excels in all aspects of life. At Michigan State University Aaron had a perfect 4.0 GPA and graduated with a BS in Kinesiology. He went on to the University of Washington for physical therapy school and is a successful practicing Physical Therapist.
Aaron has retired from elite level competition but continues involvement in sport and is an ambassador for change in the disability community. He is a level 1 certified USA Triathlon coach, Level 3 USA Cycling Coach, True sport Certified Coach and Certified TRX Instructor. He has partnered with TRX to start a campaign to promote accessible wellness for the visually impaired community. He also works with the Lakeshore Sports Science and Performance Center in developing programs that support participation for adaptive individuals in sport.
Through his accomplishments, Aaron is truly a great example that, “You don’t need vision to be a visionary!” Session: TRX; The Perfect Tool to Bridge the Accessibility Gap on Wellness |
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| Julie Smith, OTR/L Occupational Therapist, Hoover City Schools |
| Julie Smith is a licensed, certified Occupational Therapist with 40 years of experience working in acute care, rehabilitation, and pediatrics. Julie attended the University of Alabama for her pre-requisites and received her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. Julie is licensed by the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy and is certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy Julie began her career as an Occupational Therapist in an acute care hospital, where she worked with patients recovering from a variety of injuries and illnesses. Julie then transitioned to a rehabilitation setting, where she helped patients prepare for their return to the community. Over the past 25 years, Julie has worked exclusively in school systems in Hoover, Shelby County and Bessemer. Julie has worked with children of all ages from preschool to high school, and she addresses a wide range of occupational therapy needs, including fine motor skills, gross motor skills, visual motor skills, sensory processing, handwriting and executive functioning skills. Julie currently works at Deer Valley Elementary School in Hoover, Alabama, where she is dedicated to help children of all abilities reach their full potential. Session: Collaborating Hits the SPOT! |
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| Allison Solomon, MS, CRC ADA Compliance Officer, Disability Support Services Executive Director, University of Alabama at Birmingham |
| Allison Solomon currently serves as the Executive Director of Disability Support Services (DSS) at University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). She served as Director of DSS since July 2010 and was appointed ADA Compliance Officer in September of 2015. She began her career at UAB in the Disability Support Services office as a Disability Specialist in June of 2002. Allison earned both of her degrees from Auburn University, a Bachelors degree in Communication Disorders (2000) and a Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling (2002). She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and currently serves on the board of Alabama AHEAD. Allison serves on numerous committees within UAB as well as external agencies. She and her staff work closely with UAB administration, faculty and staff to ensure the university’s programs, policies, services and activities are accessible and to prevent discrimination based on disability. Allison collaborates and provides consultation regularly to UAB administration and is also experienced as a consultant in the field of disability in higher education. Session: Toto, I've a Feeling We're Not in High School Anymore: Preparing Students for a Successful Transition to Higher Education. |
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| Elizabeth Stewart, Ph.D., ATP Research Assistant Professor, The University of Alabama |
| Elizabeth Stewart is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Alabama. She collaborates closely with United Ability and Alabama’s Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology (APT AT) program to advance assistive technology initiatives statewide and beyond. Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles as an assistant professor at the University of West Georgia, a solutions consultant for Tobii Dynavox, and a special education teacher in Homewood City Schools.
Session: Squad Goals |
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| Sarah Stewart, M.S. CCC-SLP AAC/AT Consultant, Shelby County Schools |
Sara Stewart is a Speech Language Pathologist who has been working in the school setting since 2010. She currently works in Shelby County Schools. She attended Auburn University for her undergraduate degree and University of Montevallo for her master’s degree. She is passionate about helping complex communicators learn and find their voice. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and a LAMP certified professional. |
Session: So You Want Me to do AAC in Schools? |
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| Dr. Stacy Stone is a dedicated and experienced physical therapist specializing in pediatrics, orthopedics, and sports medicine. With over 20 years of experience, she currently works with children in the Hoover City School district in Alabama, where her passion for helping young patients thrive is evident in her daily practice.
Stacy began her academic journey at the University of South Alabama, earning a Bachelor of Health Science in 2002 and a Master of Physical Therapy in 2003. She further advanced her education by obtaining her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Regis University in Denver, Colorado, in 2009. That same year, she completed a residency in orthopedic and manual physical therapy and earned her Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS) designation. In addition to her clinical expertise, Stacy served as an APTA-certified clinical instructor, guiding the next generation of physical therapists. She is also certified in dry needling, enhancing her ability to treat a wide range of conditions.
Beyond her professional achievements, Stacy is a devoted wife and mother of two teenage boys. Her commitment to both her family and her profession is a testament to her dedication and passion for improving the lives of others.
Session: Collaborating Hits the SPOT! |
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| Anna M. Trotman, M.A., NCUEB Braille Instructor, Alabama Freedom Center for the Blind |
I have been reading and writing braille for the past 17 years, either in hardcopy or on a braille display. I have taught Braille for the past 6 and a half years. As I have taught Braille to adults, I have used iPhones and braille displays for instruction. I have a Bachelor of arts in Communication Management with a concentration in Communication Studies with a Minor in Health Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Alabama. I am a Certified Braille Transcriber through the Library of Congress. I also hold the National Certification in Unified English Braille from the National Blindness Professional Certification Board. |
Session: Creating PowerPoint Presentations for Work with a Screenreader |
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| Samantha Wadsworth, MA, CRC, LPC Assistant Director of ADA Investigations & Faculty Advisor, University of Alabama at Birmingham |
Since her first part-time job at sixteen, Samantha has been passionate about working with people who have disabilities. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and Licensed Practicing Counselor (LPC) with over 25 years of experience in a variety of settings and roles within the helping field who is skilled at advocating for and empowering a diverse population of individuals with disabilities. Samantha spent 17 years with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services-Vocational Rehabilitation Division at the ADRS Lakeshore office. Samantha now serves as Assistant Director of ADA Investigations and Faculty Advisor with Disability Support Services at the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB). In this role, she educates faculty and staff at UAB, as well as the community on disability-related subjects to increase awareness and inclusion in the Higher Ed setting. Samantha also has experience as an adjunct instructor for graduate students in counseling programs. Samantha received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling from The University of Alabama. She also completed a post-masters certification program in Rehabilitation Leadership and Management through Auburn University. |
Session: Toto, I've a Feeling We're Not in High School Anymore: Preparing Students for a Successful Transition to Higher Education. |
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| Melissa Walters Remote Supports Consultant, SafeInHome |
| Melissa has been with SafeinHome since 2021 and her mission is to educate the community on how to promote independence and self-determination through the use of Remote Supports and Assistive Technology. Melissa is driven by helping others and seeking positive change throughout the community. Melissa has a young family that live locally, and they love the water during the summer.
Session: Elevating Independence Through Remote Supports |
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