<div dir="ltr">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Dear Students,<span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">With Washington Seminar behind us and Spring convention in
full swing, I hope you all are killing it, in and out of the classroom. I know
midterms are bearing down upon us all, so, pause that text book, stretch out,
and take a few minutes to read about what NABS has been up to for the last
month.<span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">Below, find the link to our online edition of the NABS
notes, followed by the notes themselves. A copy is also attached to this email
for your reading pleasure.<span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><a href="http://nabslink.org/content/nabs-notes-february-2018" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline">http://nabslink.org/content/nabs-notes-february-2018</a><span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span> </span></p>
<h1 style="margin:12pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:16pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(47,84,150);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">NABS
Notes: February 2018<span> </span><span></span></span></h1>
<p class="gmail-Heading" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:18pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black;font-weight:bold"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">In this issue, you will find:<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span>•<span style="font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">President’s
Note<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span>•<span style="font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">2018
Mid-West Regional Student Seminar<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span>•<span style="font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Summer
Opportunities | NFB Training Centers<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span>•<span style="font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">2018
NFB National Scholarship Program<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span>•<span style="font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">NABS
Legislative Toolkit<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span>•<span style="font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">December
and February Blog Posts<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span>•<span style="font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Committee
Updates<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt 9pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">President’s Note<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">When I ponder the effectiveness of
leadership, I immediately turn to myself. What can I do better? How could I
have improved a situation? What worked well; or what should I no longer do when
approaching issues? On the other hand, I look to myself in shaping the future
student leaders in the National Federation of the Blind. One way in which the
national student leadership has followed through on this notion is by bringing
thirty of our finest leaders with glowing potential to the Jernigan Institute
for a student leadership weekend. Prior to Washington Seminar, curious minds
and blossoming leaders gathered alongside our affiliate presidents and national
president to learn, grow, and collaborate. The NABS Board conducted seminars on
leadership, public speaking, conflict resolution, building relationships,
running meetings, and so much more. We were enlightened by words of wisdom from
our national president as he shed light on our philosophy and the evolution of
the Federation. Our student and affiliate leaders participated in a sexual
assault prevention and awareness training in order to be appropriately equipped
with the tools to be an active by-stander.<span>
</span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">After leaving a weekend with big ideas, an
energized heart, and excitement around building our students up, we convened in
our nation’s capital, where a record-breaking number of students registered for
our annual NABS Winter Seminar. More than 95 students were loud and proud in
the audience, ready to participate with strong and vibrant voices. With the
gracious support of President Riccobono, our Washington Seminar sponsorship
program continues to grow, helping 35 students in attending this year’s event.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">What brought you into our federation
family? For some, it was a blind friend of yours who introduced you to our
extended family. For others, it was a flier in the mail inviting you to a State
Convention. And, for many, it is our national scholarship program. In fact, I
graduated four years ago from high school with money on my mind. Private
universities are expensive! As you can tell, that scholarship brought me into a
huge part of my life and introduced me to a group of loved ones who I will
always cherish. As cliché as that may sound, I am so grateful for our national
scholarship program; and the application period closes in just one month! I
challenge you to apply, regardless of your confidence in your application. Get
your essay proof read, ask for a recommendation from a person you know thinks
highly of you, and click submit on that form! You deserve a shot at the
financial assistance, influential mentorship, and experience that you will not
forget. No one will get to cling onto this opportunity if you don’t apply!<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">I’m always here to chat and listen to the
great ideas stirring in your mind!<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Love,<span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Kathryn C. Webster<span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">President<span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h2 style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:16pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black;font-weight:bold"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">2018
Mid-West Regional Student Seminar<span> </span><span></span></span></h2>
<h3 style="background:white;margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">What’s Next for You?<span> </span></span><b><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black"><span></span></span></b></h3>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">Who:
blind and low vision students (high school and up)<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">When:
6PM, Friday, April 20 – 12PM, Sunday, April 22, 2018<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">Where:
Holiday Inn O’Hare, 5615 N. Cumberland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60631<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">Cost:
$50 for meals and registration, $109 plus tax per night<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">To
reserve a room, call 773-693-5800. Mention NFB of Illinois to get our special
group rate!<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black"><span> </span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">Want
roommates to cut down costs? Email </span><a href="mailto:nabs.president@gmail.com" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="color:black">Kathryn Webster</span></a><span style="color:black"><span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">WHY
WAIT? Event and hotel registration is open from February 1 – March 31,
2018<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDvp87a-j_Yv6mpfEDmYU7dWNmg0CVDRpGbftGwIj7goYVDg/viewform" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="color:black">REGISTER</span></a><span style="color:black"> <span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black"><span> </span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">Direct
questions and special requests to </span><a href="mailto:nabs.president@gmail.com" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="color:black">Kathryn Webster</span></a><span style="color:black"><span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 0.2in;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="color:black">For
financial assistance, contact your affiliate president by March 20.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<pre style="margin:7.5pt 0in;background:rgb(242,242,242);font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Consolas"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black"><span> </span></span></pre><pre style="margin:7.5pt 0in;background:rgb(242,242,242);font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Consolas"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">This year’s regional student seminar will be a weekend of fun, engagement, and information! </span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">It’s all about the next step in your life, whatever that may look like: taking a step back, learning about options, and paving the path for your future. We will have experts from blindness training centers, working professionals, career guidance, college preparation, health & wellness, and so much more. This seminar gives students an invaluable tool: the power of networking. Both Friday and Saturday night, we will engage in activities and social events. With students traveling from neighboring states, the interactions you’ll experience will be unlike anything else!<span> </span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black"><span></span></span></pre>
<p class="gmail-Body" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h2 style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:16pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black;font-weight:bold"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Summer
Opportunities | NFB Training Centers<span> </span><span></span></span></h2>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">BLINDNESS:
Learning in New Dimensions (BLIND,) Inc.<span>
</span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>Minneapolis, MN<span> </span></span><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>BLIND, Incorporated is
seeking dynamic, enthusiastic individuals to work as counselors in our PREP,
STYLE, and Buddy Programs! Our PREP and STYLE programs serve high school
students 14 to 21 years of age. Students in the Buddy Program range from
9 to 13 years of age. Applicants must be able to serve as role models as
well as understand and share our positive philosophy regarding blindness. These
individuals must be skilled in the non-visual alternative techniques of
blindness that we teach at our training center. While being a graduate of an
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) training center is not a requirement,
one should have the same level of skill, self-confidence, and independence that
we expect from our graduates.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>The most qualified applicants
possess the following skill set:<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>• Aspirations to work
with children/teenagers<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>• Ability to communicate
effectively with co-workers and supervisors<span>
</span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>• Willingness to work as part
of a team<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>• Willingness and ability to
teach students of all levels and backgrounds<span>
</span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>• Proficiency in using word
processing, spreadsheets, the internet, and email using either the JAWS,
Voiceover or NVDA screen readers<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>• Ability to write clear and
concise reports on student progress<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>• Ability to read and write
Braille<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>Note: All applicants must
pass a background check.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>PREP Counselor: June 3 –
August 15<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>STYLE Counselor: July 10 –
August 15<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>Buddy Counselor: July 10 –
August 15<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span>For more information, contact
Michell Gip, Youth Services Coordinator at 612-872-0100 ext. 231 or email a
cover letter and resume to </span><a href="mailto:mgip@blindinc.org" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="color:rgb(4,51,255)">mgip@blindinc.org</span></a><span>.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Colorado Center for the Blind<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Littleton,
CO<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The
Colorado Center for the Blind is now accepting applications from positive blind
role models to be residential counselors and classroom instructors in our 2018
summer programs.<span> </span>We offer 3 programs for
students: Summer for Success College Prep Program, Earn and Learn High School
Program and the Initiation to Independence Middle School Program.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Staff
must be available May 29 through August 10, 2018.<span> </span>Applicants must be good role models,
competent in the skills of blindness, well-rounded, flexible, must possess
excellent communication skills, and be willing to lead by example.<span> </span>Must be excited to work with blind students
ages 11 – 20. Challenge recreation is an exciting component of the job.<span> </span>Staff will go rock climbing, hiking,
canoeing, white water rafting, attend martial arts classes and much more.<span> </span>All staff and students will attend the week
long national convention of the National Federation of the Blind.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">To
learn more about our summer programs, please click the following links<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?x-yt-cl=84503534&v=6yBomtj12KU&x-yt-ts=1421914688&feature=player_embedded#t=0" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">https://www.youtube.com/watch?x-yt-cl=84503534&v=6yBomtj12KU&x-yt-ts=1421914688&feature=player_embedded#t=0</span></a><span class="gmail-MsoHyperlink" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><a href="http://cocenter.org/dreaming-warmer-2018-summer-programs/" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">http://cocenter.org/dreaming-warmer-2018-summer-programs//</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">If
interested, please contact Martin Becerra-Miranda at 303-778-1130 x 223 or via
email at </span><a href="mailto:mbecerra@cocenter.orgg" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">mbecerra@cocenter.orgg</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Louisiana center for the Blind<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Ruston,
LA<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">If
interested in working for one of the LCB summer programs, contact Eric Guillory
at </span><a href="mailto:eguillory@louisianacenter.org" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">eguillory@louisianacenter.org</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-MsoPlainText" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h2 style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:16pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black;font-weight:bold"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">2018
NFB National Scholarship Program<span> </span><span></span></span></h2>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">APPLY NOW<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><a href="http://www.nfb.org/scholarships%3Chttp:/www.nfb.org/scholarships%3E" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span class="gmail-Hyperlink0" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">http://www.nfb.org/scholarships<http://www.nfb.org/scholarships></span></span></a><span class="gmail-Hyperlink0" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Are
you legally blind? Do you reside in the United States, the District of
Columbia, or Puerto Rico? Are you pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time,
postsecondary course of study at a U.S. institution in the 2016 scholastic
year? Are you available to attend the entire NFB National Convention in
Orlando, Florida </span><a style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span class="gmail-Hyperlink1" style="text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">from July 3-July 8, 2018</span></span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">?
Are you eager to meet Federation leaders and network with some of the
brightest, most passionate mentors out there?<span>
</span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">If
you said yes to all of these questions, then we strongly encourage you to apply
to our 2018 National Scholarship Program! To recognize achievement by blind
scholars, the National Federation of the Blind annually offers blind college
students in the United States and Puerto Rico the opportunity to win one of
thirty merit-based, national-level scholarships ranging in value of $3,000 to
$12,000. All scholarships awarded are based on academic excellence, community
service, and leadership. Visit our website at </span><a href="http://www.nfb.org/scholarships" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span class="gmail-Hyperlink2" style="color:rgb(0,121,255);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">www.nfb.org/scholarships</span></span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><</span><a href="http://www.nfb.org/scholarships" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span class="gmail-Hyperlink2" style="color:rgb(0,121,255);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">http://www.nfb.org/scholarships</span></span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">>
to begin your application!<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Remember:
applications, along with all necessary documents, must be submitted no later
than </span><a style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span class="gmail-Hyperlink1" style="text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">March 31, 2018</span></span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">. Do not wait
until the end of February to start gathering additional information and
beginning the online form.<span> </span><span style="background:white"><span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Heading" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:18pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black;font-weight:bold"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white"><span> </span></span></p>
<h2 style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:16pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black;font-weight:bold"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">NABS Legislative Toolkit<span>
</span><span></span></span></h2>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">The NABS Legislative Toolkit is a complete and comprehensive
guide for all blind students to more actively participate in the fight for
equal access. Included are step by step instructions on how to write your
personal testimony, how to approach your university for support, and even how
to hold a legislative workshop with your student division. The Legislative
committee exists to further explain and assist students in their implementation
of the kit. The National Association of Blind Students Legislative Committee
knows that through changing laws, we can change lives. Join us, use this
invaluable tool. Together, through collective action, we can achieve equality
for the blind in the classroom, and beyond. This toolkit will be up on our web
site soon, as well as distributed to student presidents.<span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white"><span> </span></span></p>
<h2 style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:16pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black;font-weight:bold"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">December
and February Blog Post<span> </span><span></span></span></h2>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">February<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">The National Association of
Blind Students believes in students taking full advantage of all the college
experiences available to them, regardless of their blindness. Therefore, we are
teaming up with an organization called MIUSA, that allows blind people to knock
down barriers while traveling abroad. Below, please find a blog from MIUSA,
describing the experience our previous NABS president had traveling to south
America. Don't let blindness be a factor preventing you from traveling to
Egypt's pyramids or Ice Land's volcanos. NABS and MIUSA together can turn your
wildest safari dreams into reality.<span> </span></span><span style="line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in"><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">Catching a wave in the
Caribbean. Cruising down the slopes of a volcano. Zipping through rainforests
along a cable. Reading a textbook. When you think of extreme adventure, one of
these is not like the other. Yet what Sean Whalen discovered while traveling is
that, for blind people in Nicaragua, accessing one of these activities is
perceived to be a near-impossible challenge – and it’s not the one you’d
expect. Sean didn’t know what to expect on his first journey abroad, so he
focused on the usual.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">“I wondered how easy it would
be to get around, what people’s reactions would be to me, and how different it
would be from what I’m used to in the United States.”<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">What he discovered in Nicaragua
was the travel concerns ended up being much less of an issue, for which he now
admits he may have over prepared. Instead, he found himself grappling more with
the cultural contradictions he discovered there.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">Sean, who is blind, traveled
for several weeks with a small group from the United States to do interviews
with organizations working on behalf of blind people in the country, with
government officials, and with blind school children and their families.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">He learned of this opportunity
through an alumna of Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, where
he was a graduate student. Sean was looking for a summer internship, and as
luck would have it, a Boston-based non-profit was looking for someone with
policy experience to assess its viability to run programs in Nicaragua.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">Before traveling, Sean learned
Nicaragua’s constitution provides equal access to everyone in education,
including students with disabilities. The reality of what he found on the
ground was quite different.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">Lack of resources contributed
to disabled students being pulled out of school at an early age or left without
access to assistive technology. He also sensed a lack of societal expectation,
especially in rural areas, that a person with a disability can have
independence or a professional life.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">“I think it has given me a
perspective on how important good policy can be and how also having things on
paper that look great won’t necessarily translate into good outcomes in
reality."<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">People he met in Nicaragua were
surprised to see Sean navigating the community with his cane and to learn that
he was a university student with a career living on his own. Ironically, when
he went ziplining, surfing, hiking or volcano boarding, none of the locals or
tour guides seemed too concerned that he was blind.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">“If I went anywhere in the
United States to do that, there would be a safety concern and a big fight just
to get to do it like anyone else. But in Nicaragua, it was, ‘Here’s five
dollars’ and ‘Here’s your board.’ It was strange – it felt really good and in
that moment, I thought, ‘You think I can do this, but you don’t think your son,
if he had a disability, could go to school?’"<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">As president of the National
Association of Blind Students, a division of the National Federation of the
Blind in the United States, Sean is heavily engaged in working on a volunteer
basis on policy issues on the education of blind people.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">This includes a lot of work on
access to technology in the classroom, though on a far different level than
what is needed in Nicaragua. Until this point, he has seen his policy work as
domestically focused. His overseas experience has caused him to question
whether that is enough.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0.2in;background:white;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">“There’s just a far greater
need out there, and I wonder what responsibility I have, do we have, to be
aware of that need and to help when we can. I think I’d have a broader
perspective if I’d had the nerve to go abroad earlier in my life."<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background:white;margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:107%;color:black;border:1pt none windowtext;padding:0in">After graduation, Sean, who is
eager to make up for lost time, headed back to Nicaragua with the same
non-profit for six months and will be seizing more opportunities to travel and
engage in advocacy efforts abroad in the future. He is currently Director of
Strategic Partnerships for ETI, the nonprofit organization committed to the
development of an inclusive society by transforming the social stigma against
disabilities across the globe and empowering blind youth to be the authors of
their futures and change makers of their societies.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">December<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">Ellana Crew is a sparkling leader with many great qualities.
As one who grew up in Maryland, her loyalty continues as she is now furthering
her education in Baltimore. Ellana is proud to serve as president of the
Maryland student division and as the co-chair for the Outreach Committee for
our national student division. It’s hard to not mention Ellana’s contagious
attitude and genuine personality. She loves building the National Federation of
the Blind and learning about others’ differences and identities. Join us in
reading this month’s blog post!<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">I think I can speak for many of us when I say that although
we love our families dearly and are excited for the holidays, the family
gatherings of the season can get just a little bit crazy sometimes. With all of
the traveling, gift shopping, cooking, and everything in between, the winter
months can certainly leave us all feeling a little exhausted and sometimes
stressed. One winter as I traveled home for the Christmas break, I was
preparing for all of these things, but I was not prepared for one thing in
particular that I did not expect to happen that year.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">It was 2015 and I was right in the middle of the CORE program
at Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, a structured discovery blindness
training center in—you guessed it—Maryland. It was the first year I would be
going to the Christmas gathering with a cane in my hand, naturally, I was a
little bit nervous. What were my relatives going to say? Would they treat me
any differently?<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">The time finally came on Christmas day for the whole family
to come together at my grandparents’ house for food, presents, and lots of
hugging and storytelling. When I got there, unfortunately, some of my fears
were confirmed. Even though they had never done so before, even though I had
always been blind, my grandfather was suddenly far more attentive to moving
things out of my way, my grandmother was extra insistent on making my plate for
me, and people seemed to make an extra effort to move around me than they had
in previous years. It was a little disheartening, and really, I couldn’t
understand how my act of using a tool to enhance my own independence had
somehow caused my family to believe I now had less of it.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">I began to realize just how little I must have done for
myself in the past. I had started thinking about the fact that, before
training, I had never made my own plate at the family Christmas dinner. My mom
would often keep her hand on my shoulder to help guide me through the house, my
grandparents would get my drinks for me, and I would usually find one place to
sit and avoid walking around very much. But this year was going to be
different. I had spent the last several months learning that I could walk
around as freely as I wanted with my cane, I had gone through several buffet
lines at large meals for 40 and served myself at every one, and I had learned
how to work around obstacles that I found in my path with no problem. I was
more than capable of doing so many other things I had never done before, and I
wanted to show my family what I had learned.<span>
</span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">So, when my grandfather insisted on moving things out of my
way so that I could get through the house, I said “oh no, I’m okay. I don’t
trip over things anymore. Let me show you how I use my cane.” And when my
grandmother insisted on making my plate for me, I said “oh, you don’t have to
do that. If you tell me the order of things on the counter, I am able to
independently serve myself.” And instead of sticking to one spot on the couch
and staying there, I decided I would walk around and join conversations myself
this year, using my cane to navigate where I wanted, when I wanted. I started
teaching my family what I was able to do and how I was able to do it, showing
them the things I had learned and the skills I had gained, and everybody benefited.
They appreciated the explanation, and I appreciated not being fussed over too
much.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;background:white">Simply educating your friends and family can make a world of
difference, and while my family is still learning to adapt to the new me, we
are able to talk openly and honestly about what helps and what doesn’t. I am
sure to let them know that if I do want some help, I will definitely ask them,
and when they see me use my newly acquired skills to do what I need to do, it
helps them understand a little bit more about what blind people are really
capable of.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Committee Updates<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:rgb(58,58,58);background:white">If you have ever wanted to get involved with
the work the National Association of Blind Students is doing, this is your
chance. We have recently reorganized our committees and are looking for
students with a passion to work beside us in building the Federation. If you
are interested in joining one or more of our committees, please select the
committee(s) you are most interested in and send an email to the Chair of the
committee. Or, join the conference line at the designated times when it is most
convenient to you. We look forward to working with you to build the National
Federation of the Blind. <span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:rgb(58,58,58);background:white"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Outreach Committee<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Chair:
Syed Rizvi<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The
outreach committee is hosting its annual national scholarship call Sunday,
February 25th at 8PM Eastern.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">NABS
will be fully transitioning from the Facebook profile to the Facebook page by
national convention or when we hit 1,000 followers.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The
outreach committee is teaming up with MIUSA, an organization that enables
disabled students to travel abroad.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">We
are launching a membership program, building recruit databases in all our
affiliates.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Legislative advocacy Committee<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Chair:
Kenia Flores<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The
Legislative Advocacy Committee had a productive call after Washington Seminar
under the new leadership to discuss what the committee plans on focusing on
during the next few months. A larger emphasis will be placed on involving
student divisions in legislative efforts. We look forward to advancing the legislative
priorities of the National Federation of the Blind alongside you in 2018.<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<h3 style="margin:2pt 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:12pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:rgb(31,55,99);font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Fundraising Committee<span> </span><span></span></span></h3>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The
Fundraising Committee is fast at work preparing for National Convention and
ensuring that profit for NABS does not come from only our members. We are
excited to be selling our annual cook books, as well as launching a new
discount card initiative. Stay tuned!<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The
National association of Blind Students<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span>A proud division of the National Federation
of the Blind<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">President,
Kathryn Webster<span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><a href="mailto:Nabs.president@gmail.com" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Nabs.president@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span><span></span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="gmail-Default" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt;font-size:11pt;font-family:"Helvetica Neue",serif;color:black"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt;line-height:107%;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span> </span></p>
<br></div>