[NFBV-Seniors] NFB22 National Convention Agenda
nancyyeager542 at comcast.net
nancyyeager542 at comcast.net
Tue Jun 28 15:02:05 UTC 2022
Whether you attend the upcoming convention in person or virtually, the
agenda is attached and below.
For virtual attendees, the Board meeting and all of the general sessions
will be streamed. You’ll find the zoom link listed after the session Title,
date and time.
As mentioned in an earlier email, the Seniors Division meeting will be
streamed. The zoom link was included in that email. If you need it again,
please call r email me.
I don’t have information on which other divisions plan to stream their
meetings.
Nancy Yeager, President
NFBV Seniors Division
(703) 283-2524
Nancyyeager542 at comcast.net <mailto:Nancyyeager542 at comcast.net>
2022 National Convention Agenda
#NFB22
New Orleans, Louisiana
July 5 to July 10
Welcome to the
82nd Annual Convention of the
National Federation of the Blind
Mark A. Riccobono, President
National Federation of the Blind
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place
Baltimore, Maryland 21230
John Berggren, Chairman
Convention Organization and Activities
Pam Allen, President
National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana
Marriott New Orleans
555 Canal Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
855-821-4288
Welcome!
Welcome to the world’s largest gathering of the organized blind, the
National Federation of the Blind’s annual convention, where expectations are
raised and lives literally transformed. The excitement surrounding our
eighty-second convention is due in no small part to the fact that it has
been three years since Federationists have come together in person to
showcase the power and strength of our movement, to celebrate, to inspire,
and to be inspired. More than just a list of the myriad of sessions you can
attend, the agenda contains a wealth of information about the week including
our safety protocols, our community expectations of one another, and
descriptions of the hotel layouts. Read thoroughly and plan your week. Take
every opportunity to explore, make new friends, and live the life you want
at #NFB22.
Rookie Roundup
All first-time convention attendees are cordially invited to attend a
reception from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 5, in the Acadia Ballroom.
President Riccobono and other Federation leaders will be on hand to welcome
you to the convention and preview the week’s activities. Veteran
conventioneers should urge all first-timers to attend this special event. We
cannot wait to welcome you! In anticipation, check out our First Timer’s
Guide at
https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/first-timers-guide.
Inclusivity, Diversity, and Code of Conduct
We are committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and healthy environment for
everyone. Thank you for cultivating an atmosphere of mutual respect in which
participants from diverse backgrounds can learn, network, and share with
each other. We are committed to diversity, equity, and the free expression
of ideas. These principles have been outlined in our Code of Conduct found
at https://nfb.org/codeofconduct.
We recognize a shared responsibility to create and uphold that atmosphere
for the benefit of all. Prohibited behaviors include harassment,
retaliation, and sexual misconduct. Prohibited behavior will not be
tolerated and may result in removal from the convention and/or other
consequences. For assistance or to report an incident at the convention,
please call 410-659-9314, extension 2475, or email code at nfb.org
<mailto:code at nfb.org> . Formal reports can be submitted at
https://nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct/report-form.
All formal reports will be fully investigated according to the steps in our
Code of Conduct. For support or guidance, connect with our Survivors Group
at survivors at nfb.org <mailto:survivors at nfb.org> or extension 2238 or during
the convention hours listed in this agenda. Thank you for your commitment to
the safety and support of the blind community.
Convention Safety Protocols and COVID-19 Testing
We ask that everyone do their part to keep our Federation family healthy and
safe in this era of COVID-19. We are implementing new systems to minimize
risk and ensure our community can comfortably enjoy an empowering convention
experience. Please thoroughly review our 2022 National Convention Safety
Protocols
(https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/2022-national-convention-s
afety-protocols) and our National Convention COVID-19 Testing Protocols
(https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/2022-national-convention-s
afety-protocols/covid-testing-protocols). These documents, along with the
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) answers on the testing protocols page, will
provide a wealth of information.
Most importantly, please help us by fully masking in all meetings, the
exhibit hall, and other public hotel spaces when not actively eating or
drinking. Attendees should also practice social distancing throughout
convention whenever possible. It is also important that all attendees
self-monitor and seek a COVID-19 test if experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
To participate in any convention activity, an attendee must produce a
negative COVID-19 test result from a test performed not more than
seventy-two (72) hours prior to checking in at the hotel. Any FDA-approved
test is suitable, whether a molecular test such as a PCR test or an antigen
test such as an at-home rapid test. A time-stamped photo of your negative
test result, a smartphone screen shot, an electronic document, or paper
documentation are acceptable. Documentation may be emailed to
testresults at nfb.org <mailto:testresults at nfb.org> or presented in person.
Those attendees unable or choosing not to test in advance can be tested at
the Marriott. The NFB has engaged a third-party testing organization to
administer COVID-19 rapid tests on site beginning at noon on July 4. In
order to avoid waiting lines, attendees are STRONGLY encouraged to test and
send results prior to arrival.
Upon confirmation of a negative COVID-19 test result, whether submitted in
advance or produced on site, each attendee will receive a “Together in NOLA
2022” wristband. Attendees MUST have a wristband before proceeding to
convention registration. When participating in any convention activity,
attendees are expected to wear either their wristband or convention name
badge and are invited to wear both.
Convention Registration
As indicated in the safety protocols, you must show your “Together in NOLA
2022” wristband to register or pick up online registration materials. To
ensure attendees are ready to participate in convention activities as they
begin, registration will be available earlier than usual, opening at 8:00
a.m. in Salon E on both Tuesday and Wednesday and closing at 5:00 p.m.
Beginning on Thursday, registration will move to Salon A for the remainder
of the week as listed throughout the agenda. Onsite registration and packet
pickup for those who registered online will both be available in the above
locations. All convention attendees (both local and from out of town) are
asked to register. Convention registration is a requirement for door prize
eligibility and a number of other convention activities. We condition rates
for hotel rooms on proof of registration, including the showing of an NFB
registration badge, if requested.
Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
The Exhibit Hall and the NFB Independence Market are located in the Sheraton
Napoleon Ballroom, across the street from the Marriott at 500 Canal Street.
Exhibit Hall hours of operation are:
* Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Friday Noon to 1:45 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
* Saturday Noon to 1:45 p.m. (final opportunity to visit
the Exhibit Hall)
Independence Market hours of operation are:
* Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Friday Noon to 1:45 p.m.
* Saturday Noon to 1:45 p.m. (final opportunity to visit
the Market)
Presidential and Host Affiliate Suites
The Presidential Suite (room 4022) and the Host Affiliate’s Suite (room 633)
are open during much of the convention. All are welcome to come to these
suites to visit. Appointments to meet with President Riccobono may be made
at the Presidential Suite. The Presidential and Host Affiliate Suites will
be open during the following times:
* Monday 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
* Tuesday 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
* Wednesday 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
* Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
* Friday 7:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
* Saturday 7:00 a.m. to Noon
Survivor Safe Space
As a part of our ongoing efforts to provide safety, support, and inclusion
within the National Federation of the Blind, the Blind Survivors Group is
providing a safe space for survivors and individuals who have been impacted
or harmed by sexual misconduct and other forms of abuse within the NFB and
affiliated programs/events. We welcome you to drop in for confidential peer
support, to discuss questions/concerns about ongoing safety and support
measures within the NFB, and to access resources for additional support. The
safe space, in the Regent meeting room on the fourth floor, will be
available Monday through Friday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday and
Sunday from noon to 1:45 p.m.
If you are not able to participate in the survivors’ safe space and need
additional support or have further questions during the convention, you may
email survivors at nfb.org <mailto:survivors at nfb.org> or call 410-659-9314,
extension 2238. A member of the Blind Survivors Group will respond to calls
within four hours of the time of your message between the hours of 10:00
a.m. to 10:00 p.m. during the week of convention.
Monday, July 4, 2022
Noon - 6:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
Tuesday, July 5, 2022
7:15 - 8:00 a.m. Amateur Radio Division—Emergency Preparedness
Galerie 5
Discuss convention frequencies, hotel architectural features, and
distribution of special FM receivers for our hard-of-hearing and
Spanish-speaking attendees.
7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sharing Our Core Values: Creating Opportunities and
Raising Expectations
Studio 2, 3, 4, and 5
Registration: adults, $30; two or more adults, $50; children (ages 0-18),
free.
Sponsored by the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children Division
(NOPBC). For more details, visit https://nopbc.org/2022-nopbc-conference.
Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President
* 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Registration
* 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Opening Session
* 10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session I
STEM/Math Accessibility (Studio 2)
Independent Movement and Travel: From Foundational Skills to GPS (Studio 3)
Advocacy in Difficult Times (Studio 4)
CVI (Cortical/Cerebral Vision Impairment) (Studio 5)
* 1:45 - 3:00 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session II
Remote Braille Instruction (Studio 2)
Building the Foundation for Learning and Developing (Studio 3)
What’s Available Out There? Resources, Education, Development, and
Recreation (Studio 4)
Stepping Back/Letting Go: Raise Your Expectations and Defeat Your Fears
(Studio 5)
* 3:15 - 4:30 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session III
Blind Kids and Robots (Studio 2)
SSI/ABLE: Planning a Financial Future for Your Blind/Low Vision Child
(Studio 3)
Tactile Exploration (Studio 4)
Independent Living Skills (Studio 5)
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Contemporary Issues in Rehabilitation and Education
for the Blind—21st Annual Rehabilitation and Orientation and Mobility
Conference
Studio 9
Register online before July 1 at
https://nbpcb.org/members/login.php?r=/members/er.php?eid=493)
Before June 21 — $100 for in-person attendees; $50 for virtual attendees.
After June 21 — $115 for in-person attendees; $65 for virtual attendees.
Sponsors: National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) and
the Professional Development & Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB) at
the Louisiana Tech University.
8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Ambassadors Committee Meeting
Galerie 5
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Jernigan Institute Technology Seminars
Galerie 4
* 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. A Structured Discovery Approach to Access
Technology Training and Curriculum
Enrique Mejia, Iowa Department for the Blind
* 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Advocating for Accessibility
Matt Hackert, National Federation of the Blind
* 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. Accessibility of Chromebooks
Karl Belanger, National Federation of the Blind
* 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Producing Tactile Graphics and 3D Models: Nonvisual
and Collaborative Workflows
Chancey Fleet, New York Public Library
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon E
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
8:30 a.m. NFB Camp
Preregistration by June 20 was required. Please see convention note 11 for
further information.
8:30 - 11:30 a.m. What’s New with Jaws, Fusion, and Zoomtext
Galerie 6
Join Eric Damery for his annual User Group meeting. We’ll demonstrate and
discuss the recent developments and look at what's coming in 2023. Join the
fun as we kick off the 2022 Convention with the JAWS teams from Training,
Sales, and Marketing. Receive a gift for attending.
Eric Damery, Vice President, Software Product Management, Vispero
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Employment Committee Meeting
Studio 1
Annual meeting of the NFB Employment Committee. Learn about past and current
events and committee initiatives. What is the future of remote employment?
Interesting employment-related presentations. Ask questions and influence
the committee’s work.
Dick Davis, Chair
10:00 - 11:00 a.m. The State of Digital Accessibility in 2022
Studio 10
Digital accessibility is becoming an increasing priority for companies
across the United States. In this session, we’ll look at how business
perspectives are changing, new standards and regulations, accessibility in
new technologies, and what we can expect in the years to come.
Tom Babinszki, Vice President of Accessibility, eSSENTIAL Accessibility
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Breakout Sessions
Studio 7
* 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Making Health and Fitness a Lifestyle
Learn all about LEAN as we share how to make health and fitness an integral
part of your day-to-day life.
* 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Nutrition and Fitness Resources Roundtable
Come share the apps and resources you love for eating well and staying fit.
Learn about other offerings from new friends during our roundtable
discussion.
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Target Accessibility Q&A and Feedback
Galerie 5
Drop by for an open forum and meet members of Target’s digital accessibility
team. Ask questions about shopping target.com, our mobile apps, and in-store
experiences. We welcome feedback on what you like and how we can improve our
accessibility efforts.
Steve Decker, Lead Accessibility Consultant, Target
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Considerations for Members with Intersecting Disabilities
Studio 8
Are you interested in learning about members who have intersecting
disabilities beyond blindness? Come for resources, membership involvement,
networking, and understanding. Many members have other disabilities within
the NFB, and an environment of inclusion is important.
Doula Jarboe and Jessica Beecham, Coordinators
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Glad to Be Back: News from HumanWare
Galerie 6
Join HumanWare as we look at updates to our Braille products including the
BrailleNote Touch Plus and the BI X series Braille displays. Time will also
be dedicated to what is new in our low-vision portfolio, and to the
demonstration of a new and exciting GPS product.
Andrew Flatres, Customer Service, and Peter Tucic, Director of Strategic
Partnerships, HumanWare
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Job Seeker Seminar
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Pick a room and the interactive discussion leaders come to you. Topics are
Job Search as if You Are Getting Paid, Marketing Yourself in Every Aspect of
Your Life, and Interactive Interview Skills and Practice. Just beginning?
Choose Job Search Fundamentals 101 and stay put.
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Tactile Art and Picture Books
Studio 6
Drop-in art making and reading activities, free for all ages. Bring your
friends and meet new people. Read picture books with tactile pictures. Make
raised-line drawings and sculptures inspired by the stories in the books or
inspired by the stories within you!
Ann Cunningham, Coordinator
1:30 - 5:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
2:00 - 5:00 p.m. NAGDU: Awareness Is Everybody's Business
Galerie 5
Come join the National Association of Guide Dog Users for our annual
seminar. Participants will learn strategies for becoming their own best
advocate, gain a better understanding of legal matters pertaining to guide
dog users, get updates from training programs, and much more.
Stacie Gallegos and Paul Sandoval, NAGDU Seminar Committee Co-chairs
4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Website Coordinators and Contributors Meeting
Studio 8
Whether you currently have a role or someday want to contribute, we know
everyone can get involved in NFB affiliate/division websites from content to
code. Join us to learn about the progress of our Drupal transition and help
build upcoming training sessions for others.
Corbb O'Connor, Chair
5:00 - 7:30 p.m. Mix-and-Mingle Reception for Rehabilitation Professionals
Riverview 1
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Diversity, Language, and Barriers
Studio 4
Language is important to our identities. How do we develop inclusive and
consensual language when communicating? Learn practices for becoming
language conscious, engaging in respectful dialogue, and using inclusive
language to connect with Federationists of diverse backgrounds.
Shannon Cantan, Coordinator
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. NFB Legal Office Hours
Beauregard
Meet with a disability rights attorney to discuss blindness discrimination
concerns regarding employment, technology, education, voting, travel, COVID
tests, housing, parental rights, and more. Schedule your appointment by
emailing vyingling at nfb.org
<file:///C:/Users/sskaarer/Dropbox/2020%20convention/agenda/vyingling@nfb.or
g> . Please request your appointment by June 23.
6:30 - 9:00 p.m. NOPBC Family Game Night
Riverview 2
Relax, chat, meet new families and teachers, and connect with old friends.
Veteran attendees will be on hand to welcome you and provide information.
We’ll have games available to play and we’ll demonstrate easy ways to adapt
games at home for accessibility.
6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Technology Evaluation Committee Exhibitor's Showcase
Studio 7
All are invited to join the Technology Evaluation Committee’s Exhibitor’s
Showcase to learn about low- to high-tech products from vendors. From
hardware to software and more. You can hear the latest from everyone at this
meeting. You do not have to be on the committee to attend.
Mark Jones, Chair
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. NFB in Judaism Meeting
Studio 3
Join us as we discuss ways that people who are blind and Jewish can be
integral members of the Jewish community. We will also discuss ways that
members of the NFB can reach out to bring other blind people who happen to
be Jewish into the Federation.
Stewart Prost, Chair
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Independence Science SciDot
Studio 1
Independence Science and Tactile Engineering are leaders in science access
for the blind. We develop accessible data collection tools. Come see our
newest product, the SciDot, which involves real-time access to refreshable
Braille graphics technology. See our products in action.
7:30 - 9:30 p.m. NABS Student Networking
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Blind students, kick off your in-person convention right by joining our
national student division to mix and mingle. Whether you are new or
returning, we can't wait to welcome you!
Trisha Kulkarni, President
8:00 - 9:30 p.m. Rookie Roundup
Acadia Ballroom
First-time convention attendees—don’t miss this event! President Riccobono
and former rookies will be on hand to welcome you and answer questions about
the week’s activities.
Pam Allen, Chair and First Vice President, National Federation of the Blind;
President, National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana; Director,
Louisiana Center for the Blind
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon E
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
8:30 - 10:30 a.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
8:30 - 11:00 a.m. Committee for Advancement and Promotion of Braille
Studio 10
The committee will discuss developments in the teaching and delivery of
Braille, research priorities, Braille-related policy, strategies for
bringing improvements where needed, and resources and activities across our
organization. All are welcome!
Jennifer Dunnam, Chair
8:45 - 10:15 a.m. Mujeres of the Federation
Studio 7
This bilingual celebration of blind Latina excellence features dynamic
speakers. Come for an environment of inspiration, mentorship, and strategies
for success to the next generation of blind Latina trailblazers.
Rosy Carranza, Coordinator
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Blind and Mena: A Different Type of Brown
Studio 1
Members who are American Arab, North African, Middle Eastern, South Asian,
Muslim, and Sikh face unique challenges in post-9/11 America. Join us to
learn about community identities and stereotypes as well as resources
available to members with these intersectionalities.
Ronza Othman, Coordinator
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Cultivating Asian American and Pacific Islander Identities
Studio 3
Connect with blind Asian members to discuss cultural practices and to share
strategies for approaching vision loss. Provide your insight on delivering
culturally relevant outreach, including producing materials, messaging
techniques, and identifying needed resources.
Michell Gip, Coordinator
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Orientation to Career Fair
Galerie 1
Introduction to this year's Career Fair. Last-minute information for
registered employers and job seekers. Meet the employers and learn exactly
what they are looking for.
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Membership Committee Meeting
Studio 4
Affiliate membership chairs, membership committee members, chapter
presidents,
and all Federationists are invited to join us in finding creative ways to
build our membership. Share best practices to take our chapters, affiliates,
and our national organization to the next level.
Denise Avant and Tarik Williams, Co-chairs
10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Common Digital Accessibility Barriers
Studio 8
Learn about the most frequently encountered digital accessibility barriers
on the web and in mobile apps. We’ll share how we help companies identify,
prioritize, and fix them. We’ll also look at the most common issues cited in
demand letters and litigation.
Tom Babinszki, Vice President of Accessibility, eSSENTIAL Accessibility
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Colorado Center for the Blind Open House
Galerie 3
Get the inside scoop from our vibrant Colorado Center staff and dedicated
students! Learn about new apps for your phone, get some favorite recipes,
and use a click rule. Hear about our enrichment classes including tactile
art, yoga, challenge recreation, and employment.
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Meeting
Studio 2
Come hear about the progress that the National Federation of the Blind’s
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is making. What questions do you
have? How can we drive DEI efforts across the Federation together? Get
answers about state committees, networking, and much more.
Shawn Callaway and Colin Wong, Co-chairs
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Code of Conduct Listening Session
Bacchus
Meet individually with members of the NFB Code of Conduct Feedback Committee
to share feedback and suggestions regarding the NFB Code of Conduct. The
focus is on both improving the participant experience and socializing the
Code. Schedule your appointment by emailing Codefeedback at nfb.org
<mailto:Codefeedback at nfb.org> or calling 410-659-9314, extension 2475.
Please request your appointment by June 30.
1:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee
Acadia Ballroom
Sharon Maneki, Chair
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Career Fair
Galerie 4, 5, and 6
Our first in-person career fair since 2019. Come meet employers who are
interested in hiring you, including many of our convention sponsors. This is
your first step to a great future. Preregistration required. (Sorry, no
walk-ins.)
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Tactile Art and Picture Books
Studio 6
Drop-in art making and reading activities, free for all ages. Bring your
friends and meet new people. Read picture books with tactile pictures. Make
raised-line drawings and sculptures inspired by the stories in the books or
inspired by the stories within you!
Ann Cunningham, Coordinator
2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Apple, Amazon, or Alexander Graham Bell
Studio 7
In this session you will learn how to enjoy NFB-NEWSLINE®, a free,
easy-to-use audio and Braille accessible library of information, available
anytime, anywhere, using a touch-tone telephone, iPhone/iPad/iPod mobile
app, or an Amazon smart speaker.
Scott White, Director of Sponsored Technology Programs, National Federation
of the Blind
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. NFB in the Kitchen Group
Studio 8
Sometimes all you need to change up your regular cooking routine is a little
spark of inspiration and a few tools. As a community of cooking enthusiasts
strengthening confidence, come, let’s talk all things food, tools, tech, and
kitchen. Bring your ideas and enthusiasm.
Regina Mitchell, Chair
4:00 - 5:30 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Second Annual NFB Muslims Group Seminar
Studio 1
Diverse in culture, united in faith: finding our space in the blindness
movement. Join us to learn about our group and our involvement in the NFB.
Participate in a discussion on intersection between faith and blindness,
access, inclusion, diversity, identity, and advocacy.
Tasnim Alshuli, Chair
4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Breakout Sessions
Studio 5
* 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Mindfulness and Meditation
Join us as we explore and practice mindfulness and share useful resources
you can use to further your practice.
* 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Sports and Fitness Recovery Techniques
One of the most important aspects of athletic performance and stress
management is proper recovery. Learn to foam roll, check out a massage gun,
explore trigger point techniques, and learn stretches to take your recovery
to the next level.
4:30 - 6:00 p.m. Learn to Host an NFB Youth Program!
Studio 3
Youth programs can be a great way to introduce new families to the
Federation. If you are curious about what it takes to host an NFB BELL®
Academy, STEM2U, or other NFB youth program, come hear from experienced
program coordinators about what has helped make their events successful,
fun, and full of learning.
Karen Anderson, Education Programs Coordinator, National Federation of the
Blind
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. Dream Makers Circle and Planned Giving Q&A
Studio 4
Are you wondering about planned giving and our Dream Makers Circle Legacy
Society? Do you want to learn how easy it is to join? Come and ask all your
questions.
Patti Chang, Director of Outreach, National Federation of the Blind
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. NFB Legal Office Hours
Beauregard
Meet with a disability rights attorney to discuss blindness discrimination
concerns regarding employment, technology, education, voting, travel, COVID
tests, housing, parental rights, and more. Schedule your appointment by
emailing vyingling at nfb.org <mailto:vyingling at nfb.org> . Please request your
appointment by June 23.
6:15 - 10:00 p.m. National Association of Blind Students (NABS) Annual
Business Meeting
Galerie 4, 5, and 6
Join our vibrant national student division as we reflect on lessons learned
from the pandemic and pave our path forward! Only members who have completed
our membership process before June 30 will be eligible to participate in
official business.
Trisha Kulkarni, President
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Greek and Masonic Group
Studio 10
Are you a member of a national Greek organization, the Masons, or the
Eastern Star? Help build our relationships with Greek letter organizations
to ensure inclusion and participation, to engage in fundraising, and to
serve as a resource for the blind considering membership.
Shawn Callaway, Chair
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. LGBTQ+ Educational Workshop
Studio 1
Join members of the LGBTQ+ Group to discuss factors that impact our
inclusion in society. This is an educational workshop focused on eliminating
popular misconceptions and addressing prevalent misinformation, especially
those issues
that affect blind Federationists.
Kaden Colton, Coordinator
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. White Cane Committee & Fundraising Seminar
Studio 8
Join us for a seminar. Our state conventions and access to our members have
value. Learn how to gain financial support from things we already do. Do you
want to maximize donor support based on our visibility and our import or
have general fundraising questions to ask?
Everett Bacon, Chair
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. SSI AND SSDI 101: What You Need To Know
Galerie 2
Ever wonder what the difference between Blind Work Expenses and Impairment
Related Work Expenses is? Afraid you might go over the SSDI earnings cliff?
Come hear from an expert on these programs and have all your questions
answered.
Michael Dalto, Social Security Expert
7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Legislative Meet Up
Galerie 3
A recap of Washington Seminar, a rundown of priorities, and an opportunity
for legislative directors and others interested in advocating for the rights
of the nation's blind to exchange strategies to move our legislative
priorities at the local, state, and federal levels.
Kyle Walls, Jeff Kaloc, and Justin Young, Government Affairs Team, National
Federation of the Blind
8:00 - 10:00 p.m. Blind Parents Group
Studio 2
There are many books on how to be the best parent, but not many on how to be
the best blind parent. Meet the people writing the pages of the book on how
to be a blind parent by simply living and not letting blindness hold them
back from raising families. You won't want to miss this meeting!
Lisamaria Martinez, Chair
Thursday, July 7, 2022
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon A
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
9:00 - 11:30 a.m. NFB Board Meeting
Acadia and Bissonet Ballroom
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp captioning link: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Amateur “Ham” Radio Division Annual Meeting
Studio 10
Talking with people around the world, responding to emergencies, and
tinkering with electronics are just some of the benefits of becoming a
licensed ham radio operator. Join us in a discussion about the hobby and
plans for a permanent ham radio station at the Jernigan Institute.
Corbb O’Connor, President
1:00 - 3:30 p.m. Community Service Division Celebration
Salon B
The party starts here with the Community Service Division! Who dat? We are a
division with willing workers serving beyond the six dots. The Big Easy is
known to celebrate culture and community. Hence, our division is
enthusiastically shouting, "Let the good times roll!”
Jeanetta Price, President
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Blind Rehabilitation Professionals Division
Studio 2
Come join your peers working in blind rehabilitation fields as we support
each other through presentations and discussions on professional
development, employment ideas, and resources for supporting well-rounded
rehabilitation programs.
* 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Networking opportunity
Amy Porterfield, President
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. NFB DeafBlind Division Business Meeting
Galerie 1
Join the first-ever NFB DeafBlind Division expo emphasizing relationship
building, communication challenges, and deafblind-friendly alternative
techniques. Get updates on deafblind issues, the division’s business, and
elections.
* 1:00 p.m. Registration (dues are $10)
Alice Eaddy, President
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. National Association of Blind Merchants
Galerie 6
This year, 2022, is the year of the tiger. The tiger embodies courage,
bravery, and strength. We will feature presentations by Lauren McLarney and
Michael Dalto, who will discuss self-employment and Social Security.
Nicky Gacos, President
1:00 - 4:30 p.m. Writers Division Business Meeting
Studio 5
Come join the Writers Division for our annual business meeting. Come learn
our contest winners, enjoy readings, participate in a Writers Round Up 2.0.
Registration will be $10 in person or online.
Shelley Alongi, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Senior Division
Studio 7
Join us for our Senior Division meeting where you can help plan for: our
winter virtual senior retreat; brainstorm discussion topics for the coming
year’s conference calls;
and meet Jessica Beecham to teach us about exercise and healthy living.
Judy Sanders, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. NFB in Communities of Faith
Studio 3
Publishers of faith-based literature will provide an update regarding the
work of their respective organizations. Other speakers will describe how
their faith has helped them to overcome challenges. Division business will
be conducted.
Tom Anderson, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Assistive Technology Trainers Division
Galerie 4
Current and aspiring tech trainers: join us for professional development,
networking, and fellowship. We’ll explore what it takes to become a great
trainer, how to help our students build sustainable digital literacy skills,
and strategies for remote training.
Chancey Fleet, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Performing Arts Division and Voice Acting
Galerie 2
Come prepared to network with other performers! Join us for our annual
business meeting followed by a workshop all about voice acting and voiceover
work.
Katelyn MacIntyre, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. NFB in Computer Science
Galerie 5
Enhancing nonvisual access to information technology and improving the
ability of blind information and computer technology professionals to
compete in today's world.
Brian Buhrow, President
1:00 - 6:30 p.m. National Association of Blind Lawyers Division Meeting
Galerie 3
Examine legal issues arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic for the blind;
address ongoing struggles to gain equal access to websites, employment,
legal texts, and exams; share practice tips and technology tools for blind
lawyers. Please go to www.blindlawyers.net <http://www.blindlawyers.net/>
to register for the meeting.
* 12:30 p.m. Registration
* 5:00 p.m. Ticketed reception
Scott LaBarre, President
1:00 - 3:45 p.m. National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC)
Annual Meeting
Studio 9
Mix and mingle with vendors, blind mentors, and other parents. Learn about
cutting-edge products and programs for our kids. Experience Parent Power.
Participate in our business meeting, elections, and much more!
Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President
1:30 - 4:00 p.m. National Organization of Blind Educators Division
Studio 6
Blind teachers and educators discuss techniques they use in their
classrooms. Participants meet in groups specific to grade level and content
area to create a network of colleagues and mentors. If you teach or are
considering a career in teaching, please join us.
Cayte Mendez, President
2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Diabetes Action Network Annual Meeting
Studio 1
Come learn about blind diabetics who are self-sufficient, manage their
disease, and work for the development of technology equivalent to that
available to other diabetics. Join with those who have overcome being scared
and who have embraced the challenge of this disease.
Debbie Wunder, President
2:00 - 5:00 p.m. National Association of Blind Veterans Meeting
Studio 4
All veterans are invited. We will conduct our annual business meeting after
a short networking period. We will not be holding elections this year.
Remember your dues must be paid in full to vote.
* 2:00 p.m. Networking
* 3:00 p.m. Business meeting
Vernon Humphrey, President
2:30 - 5:00 p.m. Human Services Division Annual Meeting
Salon C
If you have a passion for people, we invite you to join our meeting! We will
discuss strategies for meeting needs of diverse populations, conduct
self-care activities, and problem-solve issues related to human services.
Register here: https://forms.gle/yrDJsKqERJUdFmva8.
Candice Chapman, President
3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Meeting
Studio 10
Come move, learn, share, have fun, and get down to business with the Sports
and Recreation Division at our annual business meeting.
Jessica Beecham, President
5:00 - 6:00 p.m. New Aira Desktop App Enhances School and Work
Studio 6
Aira is secure and professional visual interpreting for your smart phone and
now desktop computer. Learn about the new desktop release and how we’re
supporting the community with Aira at no cost at universities, as a job
seeker, as a small business owner, and at Aira Employment Partners.
Troy Otillio, CEO, and Sandra Marcus, Vice President of Marketing, Aira
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults
Braille Book Fair
Riverview 1
Browse tables of new and used Braille and print/Braille books. We have
fiction, nonfiction, and early readers through multi-volume novels,
cookbooks, and more
—all offered at no cost. Volunteers will box and prepare selections to be
shipped to your home via free matter. Donations accepted.
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Affiliate Presidents and Treasurers
Galerie 6
All state affiliate presidents and treasurers are asked to attend this
session. We will discuss issues related to tracking affiliate finances and
other aspects of organization administration. Participants can discuss state
issues with facilitator Bridgid Burke.
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Professionals in Blindness Education Division
Galerie 4
All professionals serving students from birth through age twenty-one are
welcome
and encouraged to join our informative and interactive meeting. Come network
and collaborate, sharing and learning with colleagues and future educators.
Emily Gibbs, President
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. National Association of Guide Dog Users Division
Studio 9
Come learn how to make an informed choice when deciding to get a guide dog.
Get current updates from our legal counsel about matters pertaining to guide
dog users. Find out what NAGDU has been up to over the past year and elect
our leaders!
Raul Gallegos, President
6:30 - 10:00 p.m. Science and Engineering Division
Studio 3
Learn about several interactive graphics methods, blind-friendly math
education methods, the NFB SABER project for students, the Pearson Nemeth
Code Curriculum, and Science and Engineering Division mentoring.
* 6:30 p.m. Registration
* 7:00 p.m. Meeting
John Miller, President
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Breakout Sessions
Studio 8
* 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Anytime Anywhere Fitness
Join us to learn and practice body weight exercises that can be done
anywhere, any time! Use them to build workouts that you can take with you
wherever you go!
* 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Anytime Anywhere Fitness
Join us for an advanced High Intensity Interval Training Workout. This is a
workout designed for those who regularly engage in intense physical activity
and have a basic foundation in body weight exercises.
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Upward Mobility Seminar
Galerie 1
You are employed, but what comes next? Step out of your comfort zone with
some innovative ideas about career advancement and entrepreneurship.
Brainstorming is always welcome.
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
7:00 - 9:30 p.m. Black Leaders Serving for Advancement
Galerie 5
Celebrate the numerous contributions of black Federation leaders. This
meeting will serve to establish the foundation for a proposed division to
inspire the next generation of black blind leaders through program
activities to mentor and build the diversity of the movement.
Shawn Callaway, Coordinator
7:30 - 10:00 p.m. Blind Government Employment Meeting
Studio 4
Join employees, retirees, and applicants for employment of federal, state,
and local government entities, including pseudo-government entities, as we
reorganize and merge the Blind Public Employees Division and Blind
Government Employment Committee. We will discuss solutions to issues faced
by blind public servants.
Ronza Othman and Everette Bacon, Co-chairs, Blind Government Employment
Committee
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Friends of Recovery Meeting
Studio 1
All convention attendees interested in getting or remaining clean and sober
are welcome to our confidential meeting. For more information, call
828-505-0338.
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Affiliate Historians: An Introduction
Studio 7
Join us as we give a brief introduction to the role of affiliate/division
historians and how to approach saving items of importance from the start. A
Q&A will follow. Open to anyone. Affiliate presidents and historians
encouraged to attend.
Nichole Chrissis, Archivist, National Federation of the Blind
8:00 - 9:30 p.m. Training Champions with the BLIND, Inc. Team
Galerie 2
Join the staff of BLIND, Inc. for this interactive event sure to help you
learn how attending blindness skills training will help you become an all
star!
8:00 - 10:00 p.m. Blind Survivors Group
Studio 6
Join the newly established Blind Survivors Group for our inaugural kickoff
meeting where we will reflect, support, and plan for future survivor and
victim-centered programming within the Federation. Please email
survivors at nfb.org <mailto:survivors at nfb.org> with any access needs ahead of
the event!
Kathryn Webster and Danielle Montour, Co-chairs
9:00 - 11:00 p.m. LGBT+: Let's Talk About the Plus
Salon B
Come one, come all! We warmly welcome you to a hybrid event for our LGBT+
Group. Not sure if you belong? Well, let's talk about that plus! Note that a
Zoom link will be published as we get closer.
Sanho Steele-Louchart, Chair
Friday, July 8, 2022
8:00 - 8:45 a.m. Devotions
Studio 1
8:45 - 9:15 a.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket Sales
($75)
Salon A
8:45 - 9:15 a.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Opening General Session (Friday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Call to Order and Invocation
Welcoming Ceremonies: Back Together on the Bayou
2022 National Convention Host Committee: National Federation of the Blind of
Louisiana
Celebration of Freedom: Veterans Recognized
Vernon Humphrey, President, National Association of Blind Veterans, a
Division of the National Federation of the Blind; Mauk, Georgia
Roll Call of States and Appointment of Nominating Committee
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. What's New with Amazon Accessibility
Studio 2
Join us for demos and discussion of accessible Amazon products including
Alexa and Smarthome, Fire TV at home and in your car, Fire tablets for
school and work, audio description on Prime Video, books and shopping, and
of course, exciting Amazon prizes for lucky attendees.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Louisiana Center for the Blind Reception
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Please join us to learn about our transformative programs! Reconnect with
alumni and staff! Find out more about graduate degrees at Louisiana Tech
University! Discover how LCB training will help you live the life you want!
Pam Allen, Executive Director
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Leader Dog Meet and Greet
Studio 4
Meet Leader Dog team members and learn about the free services provided at
Leader Dogs for the Blind! Participants can ask questions and hear about the
free orientation and mobility program, virtual learning opportunities, and
the new podcast, Taking the Lead!
David Locklin, Chief Program Officer, and Tina Goedertier, Manager of
Training, Leader Dogs for the Blind
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. What's New in Google Accessibility?
Galerie 6
Get the latest on what’s happening with Google and accessibility.
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. New Aira Desktop App Enhances School and Work
Galerie 5
Aira is secure and professional visual interpreting for your smart phone and
now desktop computer. Learn about the new desktop release and how we’re
supporting the community with free Aira at universities, as a job seeker, as
a small business owner, and at Aira Employment Partners.
Troy Otillio, CEO, and Sandra Marcus, Vice President of Marketing, Aira
12:45 - 1:45 p.m. Finding Ms. Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant
Studio 1
Do you identify as a fabulous female? Well, this is the session for you!
Join the Finding Ms. Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant Tour this year! Learn
how you can take home the title and win $1,000 cash and prizes and more. No
pageant or model experience is required.
Krystle Allen, President, Eyes Like Mine, Inc.
1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Islamic Friday Prayer Services
Studio 9
The NFB Muslims Group is offering the Islamic Friday prayer services for all
Muslims. Non-Muslims are also welcome to attend.
1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Final Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon A
General Session II (Friday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Call to Order
Presidential Report
Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore,
Maryland
Giving Wings to Transformation: The Magic of Partnership with the Blind
Movement
Craig Meador, President, American Printing House; Louisville, Kentucky
Bruce Miles, Chief Executive Officer, HumanWare; Drummondville, Québec,
Canada
Accelerating Our Blind Driver Challenge: Raising Expectations at 211.43 mph
Dan Parker, Blind Machinist and Racecar Driver; Columbus, Georgia
Owning Our Future: Continuous Revolution in Training through the Organized
Blind Movement
Joanne Wilson, Founder, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, Louisiana
Pam Allen, Executive Director, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston,
Louisiana
Julie Deden, Executive Director, Colorado Center for the Blind; Littleton,
Colorado
Jennifer Kennedy, Executive Director, Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions
(BLIND), Inc.; Minneapolis, Minnesota
Federation SAFE: Blind Survivors, Leadership, and Our Shared Commitment
Kathryn Webster, Co-chair, Blind Survivors Group; Boston, Massachusetts
Danielle Montour, Co-chair, Blind Survivors Group; Brooklyn, New York
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Research and Academic Professionals Meeting
Salon C
The National Federation of the Blind Blindness Initiatives’ Research
Advisory Council invites interested individuals to discuss current research,
discuss publication in the Journal of Blindness Innovation and Research
(JBIR), and share ideas for increasing the research and academic presence of
the NFB.
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. NFB Code Process Discussion with Tonya Baña
Studio 8
NFB Code of Conduct external investigator Tonya Baña will share information
about the process used to investigate reports of sexual misconduct in the
NFB.
Ronza Othman, Chair, NFB Code of Conduct Feedback Committee; Kathryn Webster
and Danielle Montour, Co-chairs, NFB Survivors Group
6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Pinot and Pups
Studio 7
Parents: we are so excited about our growing K9 Buddy program here at GDB!
We believe that a dog can make a remarkable difference in any child's life
by fostering a sense of caring, companionship, and a sense of
responsibility. Come enjoy a glass of wine with me and learn more.
Jane Flower, Youth Outreach Specialist, Guide Dogs for the Blind
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Communications Committee
Studio 2
Join chapter, affiliate, and division leaders to learn best practices in
communications. We’ll explore the tools available to us through our national
office and exchange ideas. Learn to effectively use communication to build
the Federation. Everyone is welcome!
Liz Wisecarver, Chair
7:00 - 9:45 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Sessions: IEP Night
Studio 3 and 4
* 7:00 - 8:15 p.m. Getting the Lay of the Land: Blindness-Specific
IEP Tips (Studio 3)
Braille Is Fun! Learning Braille through Games (Studio 4)
* 8:30 - 9:45 p.m. Alternatives to Due Process (Studio 3)
Braille Displays and Braille Embossers: What’s Available and What Are They
Good For? (Studio 4)
Sponsored by the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children Division
(NOPBC).
8:00 - 11:00 p.m. Welcome Dance and Reception
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Laissez les bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll! Your Louisiana krewe
invites you to enjoy live music and dancing! Connect with friends and make
new ones! Come join us for a fun-filled event!
Saturday, July 9, 2022
8:00 - 8:45 a.m. Devotions
Studio 1
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Registration ($30) and Packet Pickup
Salon A
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
General Session III (Saturday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Call to Order and Invocation
Financial Report, Including the Honor Roll Call
Elections
Living the Life She Wants: Staying Grounded and Shooting for the Moon with
Federation Philosophy
Denna Lambert, Lead for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility,
Early Stage Innovations and Partnerships (ESIP), Technology Mission
Directorate, National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Greenbelt,
Maryland
Living the Life He Wants: Stoking Employment Opportunities through Movies,
Sports, and Achievement
Jack Chen, Assistant General Counsel, Meta (Facebook); New York, New York
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
Final opportunity to visit the Exhibit Hall and Independence Market.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Dan Parker’s World Record Corvette
Porte Cochère (Valet Entrance)
Five years ago, Dan Parker acquired a 2008 Corvette C6 and set about
repurposing the gutted car to seek a Guinness World Record. He took it to
New Mexico in March of this year for that attempt. Come check out the car
that Dan built to go over 211 mph—shattering the record.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. NOPBC Brainstorming Session
Salon B
Please share your ideas with us. What did you like at this convention? What
resources would help you stay connected throughout the year? What workshops
might you like to see us offer next year? Be a part of this valuable
conversation.
Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Code of Conduct Listening Session
Bacchus
Meet individually with members of the NFB Code of Conduct Feedback Committee
to share feedback and suggestions regarding the NFB Code of Conduct. The
focus is on both improving the participant experience and socializing the
Code. Schedule your appointment by emailing Codefeedback at nfb.org
<mailto:Codefeedback at nfb.org> or calling 410-659-9314, extension 2475.
Please request your appointment by June 30.
12:45 - 1:45 p.m. How the Blind Community Can Shape NFTs
Galerie 4
What are NFTs and how can you get involved? Learn and discuss how the blind
community can and should play a role in evolving economic opportunities in
crypto. Suman Kanuganti, CEO and Founder of Personal.ai
12:45 - 1:45 p.m. What's New with Instagram and Facebook Family
Studio 3
Learn about new accessibility features in Instagram, Facebook, and others in
the family of apps at Meta.
1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Registration ($30) and Packet Pickup
Salon A
General Session IV (Saturday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Call to Order
A Champion for Equal Opportunities: Making a Difference from Louisiana’s
Second Congressional District
The Honorable Troy Carter, United States House of Representatives, Second
Congressional District; New Orleans, Louisiana
Who Owns This Story: Audio Description as Art Not Charity
Moderator: Everette Bacon, President, National Federation of the Blind of
Utah; Salt Lake City, Utah
Elisa Beniero, Dubbing Title Manager, Netflix; Los Angeles, California
Rick Boggs, CEO and Founder, Audio Eyes; Los Angeles, California
Roy Samuelson, Founder, The Audio Description Network Alliance, and Kevin’s
Way; Los Angeles, California
Owning the Change We Want: A Report from the Federation's Advocacy and
Policy Department
John Paré, Jr., Executive Director for Advocacy and Policy, National
Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
Jeff Kaloc, NFB Government Affairs Specialist; Baltimore, Maryland
Justin Young, NFB Government Affairs Specialist; Baltimore, Maryland
Reports, Resolutions, and Other Business
Adjourn
5:15 - 7:00 p.m. Dan Parker’s World Record Corvette
Porte Cochère (Valet Entrance)
Five years ago, Dan Parker acquired a 2008 Corvette C6 and set about
repurposing the gutted car to seek a Guinness World Record. He took it to
New Mexico in March of this year for that attempt. Come check out the car
that Dan built to go over 211 mph—shattering the record.
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Advanced Screening of Surpassing Sight
Salon D
Join us for an advanced screening of the film Surpassing Sight, which
parallels the journey of Jack Chen and Dan Berlin, high-level blind
businessmen and competitive athletes to tackle the toughest cycling race in
the world, racing from California to Maryland.
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Digital Accessibility Professionals Meetup
Salon B
We designed this informal networking session for those working full-time in
digital accessibility for corporations and nonprofits. We'll share best
practices, trends that uniquely affect us as blind people, and suggestions
for growing the Federation's brand in the field.
Corbb O’Connor and Matt Hackert, Facilitators
7:00 - 10:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Friends of Recovery Meeting
Studio 1
All convention attendees interested in getting or remaining clean and sober
are welcome to our confidential meeting. For more information, call
828-505-0338.
8:00 - 11:00 p.m. Twentieth Annual Showcase of Talent
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Join us for a night of great performances! Whether you take the stage or
support your friends from the audience, it’s always an enjoyable evening of
entertainment. Performers $10; admission $5. Cash prizes awarded. Email
nfbpad at gmail.com <mailto:nfbpad at gmail.com> with questions or to sign up.
Sunday, July 10, 2022
7:30 - 8:45 a.m. Islamic Eid al-Adha Holiday Prayer Services
Studio 9
In observance of Eid al-Adha holiday, the NFB Muslims Group is offering the
Islamic Eid al-Adha holiday prayer services for all Muslims. Non-Muslims are
also welcome to attend.
8:00 - 8:45 a.m. Devotions
Studio 1
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Registration ($30) and Packet Pickup
Salon A
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
General Session V (Sunday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Call to Order and Invocation
Owning Your Creative Content: Cryptocurrency, Accessibility, and the
Organized Blind Movement
Suman Kanuganti, CEO, Personal.ai; San Diego, California
Building the Future Together: A Report from Our Jernigan Institute
Anil Lewis, Executive Director for Blindness Initiatives, National
Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
Stretching the Dimensions of Nonvisual Learning: Blind-Led Youth Programming
and Engineering
Natalie Shaheen, Project Director, NFB SABER Project and NFB EQ Programs,
and Assistant Professor, Illinois State University; Normal, Illinois
Madeline Mau, Student, NFB EQ Online 2021; Princeton Junction, New Jersey
Robert Eggleston, Student, NFB EQ 2021; Virginia Beach, Virginia
Maura Loberg, Student, NFB EQ 2019; Lincoln, Nebraska
Gabriel Mendez-Frances, Student, NFB EQ 2019; Birmingham, Alabama
Andrea Cataquiz, Student, NFB EQ 2021; Glendale Heights, Illinois
Abby Duffy, Student, NFB EQ 2019 and NFB EQ Online 2020; Concord, New
Hampshire
Accessibility Awareness on a Global Scale: Bringing Tech Professionals to
Our Movement of Equality
Jennison Asuncion, Co-founder, Global Accessibility Awareness Day, and Vice
Chair, GAAD Foundation; Sunnyvale, California
Creating Content with Accessibility as the Default: Celebrating Drupal's
Olivero Theme and Calling for More Blind Contributors
Mike Gifford, Senior Strategist, CivicActions, and Drupal Core Accessibility
Maintainer; Lafayette, California
The Right to Participate Fully in Twenty-First Century America: Civil Rights
Advancement at the United States Department of Justice
Anne Raish, Principal Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Section, United States
Department of Justice; Washington, District of Columbia
Leading through Literacy: A New Library Director Committed to Partnership
with the Organized Blind Movement
Jason Broughton, Director, National Library Service for the Blind and Print
Disabled; Washington, District of Columbia
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Raffles and Drawings
Studio 10
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. National Library Service: Help Us Shape the Future
Galerie 4
Join us to provide your input, sign up for beta test opportunities, and see
the latest
NLS technology including both eReaders. This session is hosted by the newly
formed Patron Engagement Section, and we are seeking your feedback.
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Contribute to Making Drupal Even More Accessible
Salon B
Mike Gifford spearheads Drupal’s accessibility. Many of Drupal's advances in
accessibility have been inspired by blind developers. Learn how you can be
involved, even if you aren't a developer. Many open source projects depend
on volunteers, and you, too, can contribute.
Mike Gifford, Senior Strategist, CivicActions, and Drupal Core Accessibility
Maintainer
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Final opportunity to exchange banquet tickets prior to banquet.
General Session VI (Sunday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Call to Order
The Fifteenth Annual Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards
Everette Bacon, Chairperson, Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award Committee, and Board
Member, National Federation of the Blind; Salt Lake City, Utah
Transformation in Employment: Smart Partnership to Build the Future Together
Regina Kline, CEO and Founder, SmartJob, LLC; Alexandria, Virginia
Diversity at Kellogg: A Commitment that Raises Expectations for Blind
Empowerment
Wilson Ray, Sr., Director, Retail Sales Operations, Kellogg Company;
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Engineering a New Response: Transforming At-Home Testing through Partnership
with the Blind
Jill Heemskerk, Deputy Director, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging
and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health; Bethesda, Maryland
Going My Way: Driving Accessibility through Innovative Autonomous
Transportation
Michelle Peacock, Global Public Policy Director, Waymo; Mountain View,
California
Supreme Action to Shatter Low Expectations: Living Blind and Serving on the
Bench
Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein, Michigan Supreme Court; Lansing,
Michigan
Owning Our Stories: Raising the Impact of Individuals by Sharing the History
of Our Movement
Peggy Chong, The Blind History Lady; Aurora, Colorado
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Banquet (Sunday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
Special thanks to our Elite convention sponsor, Kellogg Company.
7:30 p.m. Invocation
Master of Ceremonies: Pam Allen
Introductions and Presentations
Banquet Address: Mark Riccobono
Scholarship Awards
Convention Notes
Note 1: Information Desk
A Federation information desk is in the Acadia Ballroom foyer from Wednesday
morning through Sunday in case you have questions or need assistance.
Note 2: Hotel Room Rates
Room rates at both the Marriott and the Sheraton are: singles and doubles,
$109; triples and quads, $119. In addition, the combined sales tax and
tourism support rate is 16.2 percent, and there is a hotel occupancy fee of
$3.00 per night.
Proof of convention registration is necessary, including the showing of an
NFB registration badge, if requested. Otherwise, regular hotel rates must be
paid. Hotel sleeping rooms are non-smoking; smoking is permitted only in
specified areas.
Note 3: Banquet Tickets
Banquet tickets may be purchased for $75 at convention registration. No
tickets will be available after 2:00 p.m. on Friday. At the banquet ticket
exchange table, located in the Acadia Ballroom foyer, you may make
arrangements to reserve a specific seat for yourself or for a group of up to
ten people. On the evening of the banquet, tickets will be required to enter
the ballroom and will be collected at the tables. Tickets may be exchanged
for vegetarian, kosher, or halal meals at the banquet ticket exchange table
if done so by 2:00 p.m. on Thursday.
Banquet ticket exchange will be available at the following times (also
listed in the agenda):
* Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
* Friday 8:45 to 9:15 a.m. and noon to 1:45 p.m.
* Saturday 8:15 to 8:45 a.m. and noon to 1:45 p.m.
* Sunday 8:15 to 8:45 a.m. and noon to 1:45 p.m.
Note 4: Guide Dog Relief Areas
There is a guide dog relief area at both the Marriott and the Sheraton. At
the Marriott, the area is in the porte cochère. Exit the lobby doors by the
concierge desk and cross the valet parking lanes to the relief area.
At the Sheraton, the relief area is at the corner of the hotel property
along Canal Street. Exit the front doors of the hotel and turn right. Walk
to the corner of the building, continue across the Sheraton driveway
entrance, and find the iron-gated relief area immediately to your right.
Note 5: Announcement Requests
All requests for announcements by President Riccobono during General
Sessions must be submitted in Braille.
Note 6: NFB Treasurer Information
Individuals needing to conduct business with the NFB treasurer may do so by
going to the Galerie Registration Desk on Friday between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.
or on Saturday between noon and 2:00 p.m.
Note 7: CrowdCompass Platform
The convention agenda can be accessed via the CrowdCompass platform
beginning June 27. Mobile apps are available for both the iOS and Android
platforms (https://crowd.cc/s/4kq4c). A web portal is also available
(https://crowd.cc/nfb22). CrowdCompass allows users to customize a personal
agenda, chat with other CrowdCompass convention goers, and to join streamed
sessions with the click of a button for those participating virtually.
Note 8: Portrait Studio
The portrait studio wants and needs a photo of your gorgeous face! Because
it has been three years since we have been in person, everyone's photo is
out of date. We use images in the Braille Monitor, on websites, and for
other types of publication. Having a current photo on file is important even
if you are not writing an article or sitting on your chapter board. We will
email photos after convention to those who would like to have them. Please
visit the portrait studio outside the Acadia Ballroom during the following
hours:
* Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
* Friday 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
* Saturday 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
* Sunday 5:45 to 6:45 p.m.
Note 9: Raffle Tickets
Raffle tickets will not be sold in the registration area, and no raffles or
other such drawings will take place during convention sessions or at the
banquet. The single exception will be that national divisions may (if they
request it in advance) conduct drawings during the sessions or at the
banquet. Groups or affiliates wishing to conduct their drawings (or any
person wishing to know the winners) may go at noon on Sunday to Studio 10.
Note 10: FM Receivers Pick Up
The Amateur Radio Division coordinates the distribution of special FM
receivers for our hard of hearing and Spanish-speaking attendees. Any
interested attendee may pick up a receiver at a table in the back of the
Acadia ballroom. A deposit of $40 in cash is required, and exact change is
appreciated. The deposit will be returned if the receiver is brought back to
the checkout table in good condition by the end of the banquet or within
thirty minutes of adjournment of the last convention session the borrower
plans to attend. Batteries for the receiver will be provided.
Note 11: NFB Camp (Child Care)
NFB Camp for children between the ages of six weeks and twelve years is
available during convention sessions, most meetings, and the banquet.
Preregistration and payment by June 15 are required for this childcare
service. NFB Camp is organized and supervised by Carla McQuillan, the
executive director of Main Street Montessori Association. Please note that
childcare services provides morning and afternoon snacks, but parents are
required to provide lunch for their child(ren) every day. Times listed are
the opening and closing times. A late fee of $10 per quarter-hour per child
will be assessed for late pickups. NFB Camp hours are:
* Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Wednesday Closed
* Thursday 8:30 a.m. to noon and 12:45 to 5:30 p.m.
* Friday 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Banquet 6:30 p.m. to 30 minutes after the banquet ends
Note 12: Zoom and Ways to Access
For sessions on Zoom, there are multiple options for access.
Zoom via web: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
Zoom One Tap Mobile: US: +13017158592,,96287762142# or
+13126266799,,96287762142#
Zoom via phone by location:
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
Zoom Meeting ID: 962 8776 2142
Closed captions will be provided on the Zoom platform, and you may also
access the closed captions/transcript through 1CapApp at
https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb. More details for streaming available at
nfb.org/convention <https://nfb.org/convention> .
Note 13: Divisions
Divisions, Committees, and Groups: The Federation carries on its business
through the affiliated divisions, committees, and groups listed in this
agenda.
Divisions:
Divisions of the National Federation of the Blind are organized around a
specialized interest area usually related to employment or a major stage in
life (e.g., parents or students). Divisions serve as a formal vehicle for
building the organization at the national level.
Amateur Radio: Corbb O’Connor, President
Assistive Technology Trainers: Chancey Fleet, President
Communities of Faith: Tom Anderson, President
Computer Science: Brian Buhrow, President
Community Service: Jeanetta Price, President
DeafBlind: Alice Eaddy, President
Diabetes Action Network: Debbie Wunder, President
Human Services: Candice Chapman, President
Educators: Cayte Mendez, President
Guide Dog Users: Raul Gallegos, President
Krafters: Tammy Freitag, President
Lawyers: Scott LaBarre, President
Merchants: Nicky Gacos, President
Parents of Blind Children: Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President
Performing Arts: Katelyn MacIntyre, President
Professionals in Blindness Education: Emily Gibbs, President
Rehabilitation Professionals: Amy Porterfield, President
Science and Engineering: John Miller, President
Seniors: Judy Sanders, President
Sports and Recreation: Jessica Beecham, President
Students: Trisha Kulkarni, President
Veterans: Vernon Humphrey, President
Writers: Shelley Alongi, President
Committees:
Committees of the National Federation of the Blind are appointed by the
President, with the exception of the nominating committee, and serve to
advise the organization’s leadership on important matters and to carry out
projects to build the organization at all levels.
Advancement and Promotion of Braille: Jennifer Dunnam, Chair
Ambassadors: Dan Burke, Chair
Blind Educator of the Year Award: Robin House, Chair
Blind Government Employment: Ronza Othman and Everette Bacon, Co-chairs
Code of Conduct Feedback Committee: Ronza Othman, Chair
Communications: Liz Wisecarver, Chair
Distinguished Educator of Blind Children Award: Carla McQuillan, Chair
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Shawn Callaway and Colin Wong, Co-chairs
Employment: Dick Davis, Chair
Evaluation of Technology: Mark Jones, Chair
Jacobus tenBroek Award: Pam Allen, Chair
Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund: Kathryn Webster, Chair
Kenneth Jernigan Fund: Tracy Soforenko, Chair
Membership: Denise Avant and Tarik Williams, Co-chairs
PAC Plan: Scott LaBarre and Ryan Strunk, Co-chairs
Resolutions: Sharon Maneki, Chair
Scholarship: Cayte Mendez, Chair
Spanish Translation: Daniel Martinez, Chair
White Cane and Affiliate Finance: Everette Bacon, Chair
Groups:
Groups of the National Federation of the Blind serve as a resource to
members around specific topic areas. Groups are coordinated by a chairperson
appointed by the President and are intended to connect members across the
country to strengthen the resource network of the organization.
Blind Fraternal Greek and Masonic: Shawn Callaway, Chair
Blind Muslims: Tasnim Alshuli, Chair
Blind Parents: Lisamaria Martinez, Chair
Blind Professional Journalists: Elizabeth Campbell, Chair
Blind Survivors: Kathryn Webster and Danielle Montour, Co-chairs
NFB in Judaism: Stewart Prost, Chair
NFB in the Kitchen: Regina Mitchell, Chair
NFB LGBT: Sanho Steele-Louchart, Chair
NFB Lions: Milton Ota, Chair
NFB Webmasters: Corbb O’Connor, Chair
Navigating the Hotel
New Orleans Marriott
New Orleans is a city rich with traditions and celebrations. Honoring that
tradition, let's approach the layout of the New Orleans Marriott by
imagining a birthday celebration for a two-year-old. We're going to present
this young birthday celebrant with a square four-layer cake with two
candles. Since this cake is imaginary, you can make it any flavor and choose
your favorite frosting. Rather than placing the candles in the middle of the
cake, we'll place them near the two front corners of our cake. And don't
sneak a taste of the frosting! You can celebrate when we're done with our
tour of the hotel.
Now let's put our analogy to work. The Marriott takes up an entire square
city block on the edge of the French Quarter, New Orleans' oldest
neighborhood. Picture the hotel as our layer cake, with each square layer
placed directly on top of those below it. There are two towers of sleeping
rooms. The birthday candle on the left rises twenty-one floors and is called
the Quarter Tower, named for the French Quarter. The birthday candle on the
right is known as the River Tower, given the hotel's proximity to the mighty
Mississippi River. It contains forty-one floors. The lobby takes up much of
the first layer of the cake. The second, third, and fourth layers are filled
with meeting space. The roof of the fourth floor is, figuratively speaking,
the icing on the cake in more ways than one—on the fifth floor between the
two birthday candles are the hotel's two rooftop swimming pools.
The Marriott's main entrance is on Canal Street, roughly in the center of
the hotel. Stepping through the two sets of doors, you will walk up several
steps to find yourself in the hotel's bustling lobby. Turn to the right and
you will immediately find the line for the front desk on your right, running
along the Canal Street wall. Unless you arrive late at night, you can expect
this to be a busy and crowded area. Working your way through the crowd, as
you approach the end of the reservation desk, you will find the River Tower
escalators to your left positioned perpendicularly to the registration desk.
These escalators run to the second and third floors of the meeting space.
Also on your left, just beyond the escalators is the FedEx business office,
a helpful place to go if your chapter or affiliate has shipped something to
the hotel. Past the registration desk and the business office, you will
enter the River Tower elevator lobby. In this elevator lobby, you will find
seven elevators labeled A through G in a clockwise pattern. Elevators A, B,
and C are on your left, elevator D is on the wall in front of you, and
elevators E, F, and G are on the right. These elevators stop at all meeting
room levels, the fifth floor for the pool and the fitness center, and the
River Tower sleeping rooms. There is more to say about the elevators at the
hotel, but we will save that for the end of the tour.
Let’s return to the top of the front door steps where we began. If we
continue walking straight, heading across the lobby, we pass on our left the
bellstand and the concierge counter. On the right is a large lobby bar
called 55 Fahrenheit. The bar itself is far to the right, backed up against
the River Tower escalators. The majority of the space between you and the
bar is filled with a variety of tables and comfortable seating clusters.
Continuing our walk across the lobby brings you to the entrance of 5Fifty5,
the hotel's main restaurant. Just to the right is the entrance to the M Club
for qualified Marriott Bonvoy members. To your left is a large revolving
door that exits to the porte cochère and parking garage. Wheelchair users
will want to use this entrance and exit as there are also ADA
paddle-operated doors at this location. Some of you arriving via airport
transportation may enter the hotel through these doors. If instead we turn
to the right at the 5Fifty5 entrance, walking with the side of 55 Fahrenheit
on our right, we will reach the Canal Street Pantry. The Pantry, in the far
right corner of our first layer, offers prepackaged foods, fresh fruit,
salads, made-to-order pizzas and sandwiches as well as a selection of beer,
wine, and liquor.
Now let’s return once more to the top of the stairs where we first entered
the lobby. If we were instead to turn left, we would find ourselves headed
towards the Quarter Tower escalators that run parallel to Canal Street.
These serve the second and third floors of the meeting space. To the right
of the escalators is the Quarter Tower elevator lobby. All passenger
elevators—H, I, J, and K—are on the right side of the lobby. On the left are
two service elevators. These elevators stop at all floors except the fourth
floor. On the wall in between the Quarter Tower escalators and elevators is
an ATM.
Let’s take the Quarter Tower escalators to the second floor. There are two
meeting room clusters on the second floor: the Preservation Hall Studio
breakouts are on the Quarter Tower side while the Galerie meeting rooms are
closer to the River Tower side.
As we step off the escalators on the second floor and turn to our right,
with Canal Street now at our backs, we are facing Preservation Hall with its
collection of breakout meeting rooms. As we approach the Preservation Hall
entrance, the Quarter Tower elevators are on our right. There are also
restrooms, men’s to the left and women’s to the right, just before we enter
the Studios foyer. The meeting rooms vary in size and are arranged in a
horseshoe. Down the left side are Studios 1 through 5, Studio 6 is at the
very back, and Studios 7 through 10 work their way back to the foyer
entrance on the right side.
The other second floor meeting room cluster hosts Galerie 1 through Galerie
6. If we were to have made a U-turn at the top of the escalator, we would be
heading back towards the River Tower elevators with Canal Street on our
right. On the left is Galerie 1. Further down the corridor is Galerie 4.
Galerie 2 and 3 are stacked behind Galerie 1 while Galerie 5 and 6 are
stacked behind Galerie 4. Turning left around the corner of Galerie 4 will
take us down a hallway with entrances to Galeries 4, 5, and 6 on our left.
On the right we will pass the River Tower elevators and the River Tower
escalators. Further down this corridor on the right is another set of
restrooms and the Galerie registration desk.
You may have noticed that I did not talk about the entrances to Galeries 2
and 3. This is a bit tricky. You will remember when we first arrived on the
second floor, we passed the Quarter Tower elevators. Stepping through the
elevator lobby you will find a narrow hallway extending to the left away
from Canal Street. Down this hallway on the right are entrances to Galeries
1, 2, and 3.
Let’s go back to the Quarter Tower escalators and take them up one more
level to the third layer of our birthday cake. As with the second floor
level, the third floor has two meeting clusters. The large ballrooms that
will house our largest sessions, collectively called the Grand
Ballroom—Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet—are on the Quarter Tower side
while Salons A through H are on the River Tower side.
And as with the second floor, turning to our right off the escalators, with
Canal Street at our back, we stand in the Grand Ballroom foyer facing the
doors to the Acadia ballroom. Beyond Acadia is Bissonnet and further yet is
Carondelet.
Again, as with the second floor, if we were to have made a U-turn at the top
of the Quarter Tower escalators, we would be heading back towards the River
Tower elevators. With Canal Street on our right, we will pass the entrance
to a hallway that runs perpendicular to Canal Street and between the
ballrooms and the salons. Down this hallway are entrances to the ballrooms
on the left and entrances to Salons D, E, and H on the right. Continuing
along the Canal Street wall, we pass entrances to Salons A, B, and C.
Turning left at the end of the corridor and heading towards the back side of
our layer cake, the River Tower elevators and escalators are on the right
while entrances to salons D, E, and F are on the left. The third floor
restrooms are just past the escalators.
There is still one more layer to our cake. There are only a small number of
meeting rooms on the fourth floor, and many of you will not have need to
visit them. The primary means of access to the meeting rooms is the River
Tower elevators. As you step out of the River Tower elevator lobby on the
fourth floor, the Canal Street hallway serving Balcony rooms I, J, and K is
just off to the left. Turning right out of the elevator lobby, we pass four
meeting rooms on the right: Bonaparte, Regent, Bacchus, and Iberville. At
the end of the corridor on the left is a hallway parallel to Canal Street,
containing entrances to Balcony L, M, and N. Pro tip: there are two small
set of stairs across from Bonaparte and Iberville that run between the third
and fourth floors.
As you now know, the fifth floor is our frosting. The elevator lobbies in
either tower provide direct access to the pool deck, which sits between our
two birthday candles. There are four meeting rooms on the fifth floor
accessible from the River Tower elevators. Turn right when exiting the
elevator lobby and walk down the hallway. On the right are four small
meeting rooms: Audubon, Beauregard, Galvez, and Jackson. On the left are
sleeping rooms, and at the far end of the hallway is the health club.
There is one more small meeting cluster on the 41st floor of the River
Tower. Here you will find Napoleon, Lafayette, Saint Charles, Riverview 1,
and Riverview 2.
You may now enjoy a slice of imaginary cake. Mine is yellow cake with
chocolate frosting.
Operating the Elevators
You now have the layout of the New Orleans Marriott birthday cake. I did
promise more information about the elevators. Both the Marriott and the
Sheraton have installed smart elevators. This means that you will find no
floor buttons on the inside of the elevator cabs. That's correct. Just "Open
Door" and "Alarm" buttons. In the elevator lobby, hotel guests punch their
desired floor number into a keypad, and the software running the elevator
system determines the most efficient elevator to take. Here’s how it works.
On each side of the elevator lobbies is a keypad much like that of a
touchtone phone—the traditional three by four keypad with 123 across the top
followed by 456, 789, and the fourth row with a zero in the middle. There is
a fifth row containing one wide button for accessibility mode. Pressing the
accessibility button before keying in your destination floor number will
cause the keypad to speak your floor and the elevator letter you should
take. When your elevator arrives, the elevator will announce its arrival by
letter. When your elevator arrives at your destination floor, the elevator
will also announce the floor.
If all goes smoothly, this process should be accessible to our attendees.
However, matters will be further complicated when there are several dozen
Federationists in an elevator lobby chatting about what they have been doing
for the last three years. When possible, Ambassador Committee members and/or
volunteers will be stationed in the lower elevator lobbies. Bear in mind
that this process will require practice and, more importantly, patience.
New Orleans Marriott Meeting Room Locations
* Balcony I-N, Bonaparte, Regent, Bacchus, and Iberville meeting rooms
– 4th floor (access only from River Tower elevators or double set of stairs
on River Tower side of 3rd and 4th floors.
* Galerie meeting rooms (Galerie 1-6) – 2nd floor River Tower side
* Grand Ballroom (Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet) – 3rd floor
Quarter Tower side
* Preservation Hall breakout rooms (Studios 1-10) – 2nd floor Quarter
Tower side
* Salon meeting rooms (A-H) – 3rd floor River Tower side
The Sheraton New Orleans
Walking through the front doors of the Sheraton New Orleans from Canal
Street, you find yourself in a large, bright two-story atrium. Almost
immediately to your right is the main attraction for many, a Starbucks
coffee shop. To your left, a few steps below the lobby level, is the
expansive Pelican Bar. As you continue further forward into the hotel, you
will pass on your right a set of escalators connecting the second floor.
Beyond the Pelican Bar and the escalators, you arrive at an intersection of
sorts. If you were to turn right, you would find the FedEx business center
on the right. If you were to continue straight ahead, the Sheraton’s two
elevator lobbies are on the right. And finally, turning left leads you into
a wide registration area with a long registration desk on your right,
running parallel to Canal Street. Beyond the registration desk are the doors
to the Sheraton’s motor lobby. Those of you arriving to the hotel from the
airport may be dropped off at this entrance, making the registration desk
readily accessible. The bellstand is also conveniently located between the
registration desk and the doors to the motor lobby.
In the Sheraton, the meeting space is primarily on floors two through five.
Floors six and seven contain only administrative offices for the hotel. The
eighth floor contains a modest number of meeting rooms but, more
importantly, is also home to the fitness center and the swimming pool.
Let’s return to the lobby escalators and take them up to the second floor.
Stepping off the escalators, you arrive at an intersection similar to the
downstairs lobby. Turn to the right and head towards the escalators that
serve meeting rooms on floors two through five. If you were to continue
straight ahead, the Sheraton's two elevator lobbies are again on the right.
Immediately to the left is the entrance to Roux Bistro, the Sheraton's
Creole restaurant with tables along two sides of the hotel, overlooking the
lobby below.
I mentioned that there are two elevator lobbies. One set of elevators serves
the low sleeping room floors and the other serves the higher floors. All
elevators stop at the lobby and all meeting levels. The first elevator
lobby, the one closest to the Canal Street entrance, contains the elevators
that take guests to floors one through twenty-nine. The second set of
elevators serves floors one through eight and twenty-nine through
forty-nine. You'll note that the twenty-ninth floor is a common floor where
guests can switch between lower and higher floors without traveling all the
way down to the lobby. The Sheraton uses the same smart elevator system as
described in the above section.
The NFB’s Exhibit Hall and Independence Market are in the Napoleon Ballroom
throughout the week. The Napoleon Ballroom is on the third floor. Its
entrance is just a few short steps from both elevator lobbies and only a few
steps further from the meeting room escalators.
The National Federation of the Blind acknowledges with gratitude our
convention sponsors listed below. Their messages follow.
Elite:
Kellogg Company
Platinum:
eSSENTIAL Accessibility
Google
Horizon Therapeutics
Meta
Microsoft
UPS Foundation
Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Vispero
Wells Fargo
Gold:
Amazon
Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP
Oracle
Target
Waymo
Silver:
Aira Tech Corp
APH ConnectCenter
AT&T
Cruise
HumanWare
iSenpai
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Market Development Group
Pearson
Bronze:
American Printing House for the Blind
Chris Park Design
Charter Communications
Educational Testing Service
Election Systems & Software
McDonald’s Corporation
Tusk Philanthropies
VitalSource Technologies
White Cane:
The Chicago Lighthouse
Clusiv
D2L Corporation
Democracy Live
Duxbury Systems, Inc.
En-Vision America
Envision, Inc.
GoodMaps, Inc.
HIMS, Inc.
IKE Smart City, LLC
Independence Science Tactile Engineering
Leader Dogs for the Blind
McGraw Hill
National Industries for the Blind
Personal.ai
Rosen, Bien, Galvan & Grunfeld, LLP
Sponsor Ads
Elite
Kellogg’s – Better Days
Creating Better Day for 3 billion people by the end of 2030
* Nourish People With Our Foods
* Feed People in Need
* Nurture People and Our Planet
* Live Our Founder’s Values
Photo description: Image of Kellogg Company volunteers packing food
donations
Follow or join the conversation using #BetterDays. For more information,
please visit kelloggs.com/betterdays <http://www.kelloggs.com/betterdays> .
Platinum
eSSENTIAL Accessbility
At eSSENTIAL Accessibility, we’ve spent 14 years working to ensure equal
access to online information. Our purpose is to help organizations design
and develop digital experiences that are accessible to all.
We’re proud of the contributions we’ve made toward a more inclusive web, and
we’re honored to support the 2022 Convention of the National Federation of
the Blind.
Together, we will continue creating a future full of opportunity.
<http://www.essentialaccessibility.com/>
http://www.essentialaccessibility.com/
Horizon Therapeutics – Going to incredible lengths
Horizon is proud to support the National Foundation of the Blind. Horizon is
focused on researching, developing and commercializing medicines that
address critical needs for people impacted by rare, autoimmune and severe
inflammatory diseases. Our pipeline is purposeful: we apply scientific
expertise and courage to bring clinically meaningful therapies to patients.
At Horizon, we believe science and compassion must work together to
transform lives. https://www.horizontherapeutics.com/
Meta
Proud to support the 2022 National Federation of the Blind Convention.
https://about.facebook.com/
Microsoft - Empowerment
Microsoft is a proud sponsor of the 2022 National Federation of the Blind
Convention. Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every
organization on the planet to achieve more. This includes creating and
delivering technology that is accessible and functional for everyone.
https://www.microsoft.com/accessibility
Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Vanda Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to raising awareness of Non-24-Hour
Sleep-Wake Disorder (Non-24) and supporting the blindness community. Non-24
is a rare circadian rhythm disorder affecting up to 70% of people who are
totally blind. People living with Non-24 experience excessive daytime
sleepiness and nighttime sleeplessness, which leads to impaired social and
occupational functioning. This is due to the misalignment between the
internal master body clock and the 24-hour day.
Come visit us at our booth to learn about non-24 and sign up for additional
information. Call a health educator toll-free at 1-855-856-2424. 24 hours a
day, every day. Visit us online at www.non-24.com <http://www.non-24.com/> .
Vispero
Vispero is a proud sponsor of the National Federation of the Blind. Learn
more about our innovative technology for the blindness and low vision, and
the passionate team behind it at vispero.com!
We’re excited to see you again—in person! Please visit us in the exhibit
hall and during our presentation—we have many convention specials and a free
gift just for visiting us!
What’s New with JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText – Tuesday, July 5, 8:30 AM –
11:30 AM. Join Eric Damery for his annual User Group meeting. All skill
levels are welcome. We’ll demonstrate and discuss the recent developments
and look at what’s coming in 2023. Bring your questions and join the fun as
we kick off the 2022 Convention with the JAWS teams from Training, Sales,
and Marketing.
https://www.vispero.com <https://www.vispero.com/>
Wells Fargo
Together, there are no limits to what we can do. At Wells Fargo, we value
the unique capabilities and contributions of each of our employees and
appreciate the strength that diversity brings to our organization. Working
here, you’ll find an inclusive environment for everyone, including employees
with medical restrictions or disabilities. We’re dedicated to providing all
of our employees with the opportunity to be successful in their Wells Fargo
careers. Our dedicated workplace accommodations team – a group of
multi-disciplinary professionals who have expertise in occupational health
and psychiatric nursing, vocational rehabilitation, behavioral/mental
health, ergonomics, disability management, human resources, employee
relations, benefits and leave administration - works to provide successful
solutions and reasonable accommodations, helping employees with disabilities
or medical restrictions to successfully perform their jobs.
Wells Fargo is a proud sponsor of the National Federation of the Blind
Convention.
What other people are saying about us:
* DiversityInc magazine has ranked Wells Fargo No.2 on the list of the
2022 Top Companies for People with Disabilities. DiversityInc also ranked
Wells Fargo No. 29 on the Top Companies for Diversity, and No. 1 Top
Companies for LGBTQ.
* For the eleventh consecutive year, readers of CAREERS & the
disaABLED magazine recognized Wells Fargo as one of 2022’s Top 50 Employers
of people with disabilities.
Accommodations and accessibility assistance for team members and job
seekers:
* Visit wellsfargojobs.com <http://www.wellsfargojobs.com/> to apply
or for more information.
* Learn more at: wellsfargojobs.com/accessibility
<http://www.wellsfargojobs.com/accessibility> and
wellsfargo.com/about/diversity/accessibility
<http://www.wellsfargo.com/about/diversity/accessibility>
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without
regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. ©2022 Wells
Fargo N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC.
Gold
Amazon
Visit the NFB Convention Exhibit Hall to learn more about Fire TVs, Fire
tablets, Kindle, and Echo Devices. Amazon supports accessible experiences
for shopping, reading, and entertainment. Learn more at
www.amazon.com/accessibility <http://www.amazon.com/accessibility> .
Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP
We’re proud to support the NFB’s commitment to advancing the rights of blind
individuals across the country. Let us tell your story. Baltimore, MD 410-
962-1030. Washington, DC 202-742-5969.
https://browngold.com/
Target for all
Target’s purpose is to help all families discover the joy of everyday life.
Whether in our store or shopping online, we believe every blind person has
the right to an equal experience. Our team of accessibility experts work
every day to make that happen. Learn more about our accessibility efforts:
target.com/accessibility <http://www.target.com/accessibility>
We welcome your feedback, thoughts, and suggestions. Email the Accessibility
team: accessibility at target.com <mailto:accessibility at target.com>
Here are two new ways you can access all Target has to offer:
* Explore same day services allowing you to customize how you shop all
of our products in the manner best fitting your lifestyle. Learn more at
http://bit.ly/tgt-same-day
* Aira service is available for free to assist you in all Target
stores nationwide and while shopping online at Target.com. Learn more:
aira.io/target
Are you curious to hear more about Target's digital accessibility? Have
questions about our apps, website, or stores? Stop by our open session
listed in the agenda to share feedback, ask questions, and meet some of our
experienced accessibility consultants.
Waymo
Waymo is proud to support the National Federation of the Blind. Together,
we’re paving the way to a better future. www.waymo.com
<http://www.waymo.com/> .
Silver
Aira – Visual Information On Demand
Aira is proud to continue our partnership with the National Federation of
the Blind. New to Aira? Download our app and try visual interpreting while
visiting Starbucks in the New Orleans Marriott. www.aira.io
<file://wn-fs1/!SShaffer/Convention/2022%20New%20Orleans/Agenda/Sponsor%20Ad
s/www.aira.io>
APH ConnectCenter
Connecting the vision loss community to a world of resources. The APH
ConnectCenter offers FREE curated advice and resources to assist children,
parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind and low vision, and their
associated professionals.
* APH Information & Referral Hotline: free information, assistance,
and resources.
* FamilyConnect: for families of children who are blind or low vision.
* CareerConnect: for job seekers with vision loss or blindness.
* VisionAware: for adults and seniors who are living with vision loss.
* ConnectCalendar: for use by the entire blindness field to find and
promote events.
* APH ConnectCenter Transition Hub: information about transition
programs that emphasize empowerment, career exploration, and work
experiences for teens and young adults who are blind and low vision.
800-232-5463 - connectcenter at aph.org <mailto:connectcenter at aph.org> -
aphconnectcenter.org <http://www.aphconnectcenter.org/> - familyconnect.org
<http://www.familyconnect.org/> - aphcareerconnect.org
<http://www.aphcareerconnect.org/> - visionaware.org
<http://www.visionaware.org/>
Cruise
Building the world’s most advanced autonomous vehicles. Proud Sponsors of
the 2022 Blind Driver Challenge. GetCruise.com <http://www.getcruise.com/> .
HumanWare – See things. Differently.
Our Brailliant (TM) BI X series of Braille displays help students and
professionals who are blind to stay connected, take notes, send text
messages, and listen to and download books from online libraries. With the
new text-to-speech feature and built-in mobile options this is the
Brailliant idea all users are looking for.
Up to 10% savings on selected HumanWare products during the convention!
Visit HumanWare’s exhibit to learn more! 1-800-722-3393 | humanware.com
<http://www.humanware.com/> .
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Commitment to Access and Inclusion. At JPMorgan Chase we want to help
empower people with disabilities to grow their careers, develop job skills,
reenter the workforce and gain expanded access to well-paying careers.
We proudly support the National Federation of the Blind for its developing
innovative education, technology and training programs and legislative
advocacy that create pathways to independence and success for their
constituents. jpmorganchase.com/odi <http://www.jpmorganchase.com/odi>
Market Development Group
Best Wishes to the National Federation of the Blind for a successful 2022
National Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Market Development Group, Inc. A full-service marketing company. John
Alahouzos, Executive Vice President. 1834 Connecticut Avenue, NW |
Washington, DC 20009 | USA. 202-298-8030 | www.mdginc.org
<http://www.mdginc.org/> .
Pearson
Pearson, the world’s leading learning company, is proud to be a sponsor of
the National Federation of the Blind’s 2022 National Convention. Pearson is
committed to making education accessible for all. Please visit
https://accessibility.pearson.com/research/2022studies/ for information on
participating in our 2022 research studies.
Bronze
American Printing House for The Blind
An Accessible World with Opportunity for Everyone. APH’s vision to create an
accessible world with opportunity for everyone, guides us in our efforts to
innovate technology solutions that enable people who are blind and low
vision to conquer their challenges and pursue their dreams. Visit the APH
booth to check out our newest innovations and the classic products you know
and love.
Spectrum
The broader our perspective, the more we can accomplish. Spectrum is proud
to support the 2022 NFB National Convention.
Tusk Philanthropies – Mobile Voting
* Our mission is to expand voting options to include secure,
accessible mobile voting so any voter, regardless of ability, can vote from
anywhere.
* Electronic remote ballot delivery and return options are needed so
voters with disabilities can vote independently and privately from home.
* We continue to stand with the National Federation of the Blind to
expand voting options.
Learn more at mobilevoting.org <http://www.mobilevoting.org/>
VitalSource
Designed with all learners in mind. http://get.vitalsource.com/.
White Cane
The Chicago Lighthouse
Looking to find a job? WE CAN HELP! Offering workforce training, placement
and assistive technology guidance for people who are blind, have low vision
or other disabilities, or are Veterans.
Employment Services: Martha Younger-White 312-447-3251 |
employmentservices at chicagolighthouse.org
<mailto:employmentservices at chicagolighthouse.org>
Assistive Technology: Patrick Andrade 312-997-3649 |
store at chicagolighthouse.org <mailto:store at chicagolighthouse.org>
Now Hiring: chicagolighthouse.org/careers
<http://www.chicagolighthouse.org/careers>
Clusiv
Clusiv is the world's first accessible e-learning platform built for & by
blind and visually impaired people. We solve the global problem of blind
inclusion in the workforce, higher education, and society as a whole by
empowering the blind learner through accessible education and up-skilling.
Our content creators use our experience to provide a space for you to learn
from other blind individuals. You will learn what pitfalls to avoid, as well
as tips and tricks to make work and school life easier and more efficient.
In doing so, you will perform at your best and have more time outside of
work to do what you love.
We can work with your state’s Vocational Rehabilitation or Blind Commission
to get you access to all of our content. In the meantime, you can check out
a sample lesson by visiting <http://www.clusiv.io/> www.clusiv.io. We look
forward to answering your questions both virtually, in the exhibit hall, or
in-person throughout the convention.
D2L Corporation
D2L – Where Learning is Inclusive. D2L’s accessible learning platform
empowers everyone to participate in and contribute to the teaching and
learning experience intuitively. Find out more at D2L.com/corporate
<http://www.d2l.com/corporate> .
Democracy Live - Accessible Voting Technologies. Anytime. Anywhere.
In too many states, voters with disabilities don’t have equal access to
voting independently and privately from home. Fortunately, there are new
accessible at-home voting technologies now available.
The Democracy Live OmniBallot accessible at-home voting system is a fully
ADA Section 508, WCAG 2.1 compliant remote ballot marking solution. The
system has been tested to meet the accessibility requirements of over 90
combinations of browsers, operating systems, screen readers and devices.
OmniBallot has been deployed as an accessible absentee tool since 2008, in
over 4,000 elections, serving 3,000 jurisdictions, in 27 states and 96
countries around the world. OmniBallot has been tested and reviewed by
members of most every leading disability organization in the nation.
For further information, please contact Democracy Live: 855-655-VOTE (8683)
Toll Free | Email: info at democracylive.com <mailto:info at democracylive.com> |
www.democracylive.com <http://www.democracylive.com/> .
En-Vision America
Visit our booth! Accessible prescriptions anywhere & everywhere.
www.envisionamerica.com <http://www.envisionamerica.com/> .
HIMS, Inc.
Please stop what you are doing right now. We need your attention in this
time-sensitive matter. If you are at the NFB National Convention, go
immediately to the HIMS booth to secure the lowest price on the BrailleSense
6 and BrailleSense 6 mini notetakers. These prices are the lowest they will
be this year. Guaranteed.
Leader Dogs for the Blind
Did you know Leader Dogs for the Blind also offers FREE O&M training? Visit
us: leaderdog.org/programs <http://www.leaderdog.org/programs> for more
details.
McGraw Hill
McGraw Hill Unlocks the Potential for All Learners. McGraw Hill believes
that the best learning materials should be accessible to students of all
abilities. We are building an inclusive culture that considers the needs of
every learner from the outset and we are making every effort to ensure that
all new educational content and technology follows the WCAG AA guidelines
and best practices.
To learn more about the McGraw Hill commitment to Accessible Learning visit
mheducation.com/about/accessibility
<http://www.mheducation.com/about/accessibility> .
National Industries for the Blind
National Industries for the Blind is proud to partner with the National
Federation of the Blind to advance the interests of people who are blind.
Learn more at NIB.org <http://www.nib.org/> .
Personal.ai
Bringing the creative potential of AI to everyone. A personal AI is a true
digital extension and reflection of you and your memories. Imagine a world
where everyone has their own personal AI they can tap into to amplify their
knowledge and creativity. Imagine being able to share your AI with others to
unlock new ways to collaborate and exchange view and ideas with each other.
That day is here.
Want to create your own personal AI? Go to personal.ai
<http://www.personal.ai/> to get started and visit our seminar on July 9
for inspiration!
Rosen, Bien, Galvan & Grunfeld, LLP – Trial and Appellate Advocates
RBGG is proud to support the National Federation of the Blind so that blind
people may live the lives they want. Advancing justice and solving problems
on behalf of individuals and businesses for over 30 years. rbgg.com
<http://www.rbgg.com/>
2022 National Convention Agenda
#NFB22
New Orleans, Louisiana
July 5 to July 10
Welcome to the
82nd Annual Convention of the
National Federation of the Blind
Mark A. Riccobono, President
National Federation of the Blind
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place
Baltimore, Maryland 21230
John Berggren, Chairman
Convention Organization and Activities
Pam Allen, President
National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana
Marriott New Orleans
555 Canal Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
855-821-4288
Welcome!
Welcome to the world’s largest gathering of the organized blind, the
National Federation of the Blind’s annual convention, where expectations are
raised and lives literally transformed. The excitement surrounding our
eighty-second convention is due in no small part to the fact that it has
been three years since Federationists have come together in person to
showcase the power and strength of our movement, to celebrate, to inspire,
and to be inspired. More than just a list of the myriad of sessions you can
attend, the agenda contains a wealth of information about the week including
our safety protocols, our community expectations of one another, and
descriptions of the hotel layouts. Read thoroughly and plan your week. Take
every opportunity to explore, make new friends, and live the life you want
at #NFB22.
Rookie Roundup
All first-time convention attendees are cordially invited to attend a
reception from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 5, in the Acadia Ballroom.
President Riccobono and other Federation leaders will be on hand to welcome
you to the convention and preview the week’s activities. Veteran
conventioneers should urge all first-timers to attend this special event. We
cannot wait to welcome you! In anticipation, check out our First Timer’s
Guide at
<https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/first-timers-guide>
https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/first-timers-guide.
Inclusivity, Diversity, and Code of Conduct
We are committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and healthy environment for
everyone. Thank you for cultivating an atmosphere of mutual respect in which
participants from diverse backgrounds can learn, network, and share with
each other. We are committed to diversity, equity, and the free expression
of ideas. These principles have been outlined in our Code of Conduct found
at <https://nfb.org/codeofconduct> https://nfb.org/codeofconduct.
We recognize a shared responsibility to create and uphold that atmosphere
for the benefit of all. Prohibited behaviors include harassment,
retaliation, and sexual misconduct. Prohibited behavior will not be
tolerated and may result in removal from the convention and/or other
consequences. For assistance or to report an incident at the convention,
please call 410-659-9314, extension 2475, or email <mailto:code at nfb.org>
code at nfb.org. Formal reports can be submitted at
<https://nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct/report-form>
https://nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct/report-form.
All formal reports will be fully investigated according to the steps in our
Code of Conduct. For support or guidance, connect with our Survivors Group
at <mailto:survivors at nfb.org> survivors at nfb.org or extension 2238 or during
the convention hours listed in this agenda. Thank you for your commitment to
the safety and support of the blind community.
Convention Safety Protocols and COVID-19 Testing
We ask that everyone do their part to keep our Federation family healthy and
safe in this era of COVID-19. We are implementing new systems to minimize
risk and ensure our community can comfortably enjoy an empowering convention
experience. Please thoroughly review our 2022 National Convention Safety
Protocols
(https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/2022-national-convention-s
afety-protocols) and our National Convention COVID-19 Testing Protocols
(https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/2022-national-convention-s
afety-protocols/covid-testing-protocols). These documents, along with the
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) answers on the testing protocols page, will
provide a wealth of information.
Most importantly, please help us by fully masking in all meetings, the
exhibit hall, and other public hotel spaces when not actively eating or
drinking. Attendees should also practice social distancing throughout
convention whenever possible. It is also important that all attendees
self-monitor and seek a COVID-19 test if experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
To participate in any convention activity, an attendee must produce a
negative COVID-19 test result from a test performed not more than
seventy-two (72) hours prior to checking in at the hotel. Any FDA-approved
test is suitable, whether a molecular test such as a PCR test or an antigen
test such as an at-home rapid test. A time-stamped photo of your negative
test result, a smartphone screen shot, an electronic document, or paper
documentation are acceptable. Documentation may be emailed to
testresults at nfb.org <mailto:testresults at nfb.org> or presented in person.
Those attendees unable or choosing not to test in advance can be tested at
the Marriott. The NFB has engaged a third-party testing organization to
administer COVID-19 rapid tests on site beginning at noon on July 4. In
order to avoid waiting lines, attendees are STRONGLY encouraged to test and
send results prior to arrival.
Upon confirmation of a negative COVID-19 test result, whether submitted in
advance or produced on site, each attendee will receive a “Together in NOLA
2022” wristband. Attendees MUST have a wristband before proceeding to
convention registration. When participating in any convention activity,
attendees are expected to wear either their wristband or convention name
badge and are invited to wear both.
Convention Registration
As indicated in the safety protocols, you must show your “Together in NOLA
2022” wristband to register or pick up online registration materials. To
ensure attendees are ready to participate in convention activities as they
begin, registration will be available earlier than usual, opening at 8:00
a.m. in Salon E on both Tuesday and Wednesday and closing at 5:00 p.m.
Beginning on Thursday, registration will move to Salon A for the remainder
of the week as listed throughout the agenda. Onsite registration and packet
pickup for those who registered online will both be available in the above
locations. All convention attendees (both local and from out of town) are
asked to register. Convention registration is a requirement for door prize
eligibility and a number of other convention activities. We condition rates
for hotel rooms on proof of registration, including the showing of an NFB
registration badge, if requested.
Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
The Exhibit Hall and the NFB Independence Market are located in the Sheraton
Napoleon Ballroom, across the street from the Marriott at 500 Canal Street.
Exhibit Hall hours of operation are:
* Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Friday Noon to 1:45 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
* Saturday Noon to 1:45 p.m. (final opportunity to visit
the Exhibit Hall)
Independence Market hours of operation are:
* Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Friday Noon to 1:45 p.m.
* Saturday Noon to 1:45 p.m. (final opportunity to visit
the Market)
Presidential and Host Affiliate Suites
The Presidential Suite (room 4022) and the Host Affiliate’s Suite (room 633)
are open during much of the convention. All are welcome to come to these
suites to visit. Appointments to meet with President Riccobono may be made
at the Presidential Suite. The Presidential and Host Affiliate Suites will
be open during the following times:
* Monday 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
* Tuesday 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
* Wednesday 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
* Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
* Friday 7:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
* Saturday 7:00 a.m. to Noon
Survivor Safe Space
As a part of our ongoing efforts to provide safety, support, and inclusion
within the National Federation of the Blind, the Blind Survivors Group is
providing a safe space for survivors and individuals who have been impacted
or harmed by sexual misconduct and other forms of abuse within the NFB and
affiliated programs/events. We welcome you to drop in for confidential peer
support, to discuss questions/concerns about ongoing safety and support
measures within the NFB, and to access resources for additional support. The
safe space, in the Regent meeting room on the fourth floor, will be
available Monday through Friday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday and
Sunday from noon to 1:45 p.m.
If you are not able to participate in the survivors’ safe space and need
additional support or have further questions during the convention, you may
email survivors at nfb.org <mailto:survivors at nfb.org> or call 410-659-9314,
extension 2238. A member of the Blind Survivors Group will respond to calls
within four hours of the time of your message between the hours of 10:00
a.m. to 10:00 p.m. during the week of convention.
Monday, July 4, 2022
Noon - 6:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
Tuesday, July 5, 2022
7:15 - 8:00 a.m. Amateur Radio Division—Emergency Preparedness
Galerie 5
Discuss convention frequencies, hotel architectural features, and
distribution of special FM receivers for our hard-of-hearing and
Spanish-speaking attendees.
7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email <mailto:president at nopbc.org>
NOPBCpres at gmail.com for details.
7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sharing Our Core Values: Creating Opportunities and
Raising Expectations
Studio 2, 3, 4, and 5
Registration: adults, $30; two or more adults, $50; children (ages 0-18),
free.
Sponsored by the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children Division
(NOPBC). For more details, visit <https://nopbc.org/2022-nopbc-conference>
https://nopbc.org/2022-nopbc-conference.
Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President
* 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Registration
* 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Opening Session
* 10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session I
STEM/Math Accessibility (Studio 2)
Independent Movement and Travel: From Foundational Skills to GPS (Studio 3)
Advocacy in Difficult Times (Studio 4)
CVI (Cortical/Cerebral Vision Impairment) (Studio 5)
* 1:45 - 3:00 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session II
Remote Braille Instruction (Studio 2)
Building the Foundation for Learning and Developing (Studio 3)
What’s Available Out There? Resources, Education, Development, and
Recreation (Studio 4)
Stepping Back/Letting Go: Raise Your Expectations and Defeat Your Fears
(Studio 5)
* 3:15 - 4:30 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session III
Blind Kids and Robots (Studio 2)
SSI/ABLE: Planning a Financial Future for Your Blind/Low Vision Child
(Studio 3)
Tactile Exploration (Studio 4)
Independent Living Skills (Studio 5)
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Contemporary Issues in Rehabilitation and Education
for the Blind—21st Annual Rehabilitation and Orientation and Mobility
Conference
Studio 9
Register online before July 1 at
<https://nbpcb.org/members/login.php?r=/members/er.php?eid=493>
https://nbpcb.org/members/login.php?r=/members/er.php?eid=493)
Before June 21 — $100 for in-person attendees; $50 for virtual attendees.
After June 21 — $115 for in-person attendees; $65 for virtual attendees.
Sponsors: National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) and
the Professional Development & Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB) at
the Louisiana Tech University.
8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Ambassadors Committee Meeting
Galerie 5
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Jernigan Institute Technology Seminars
Galerie 4
* 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. A Structured Discovery Approach to Access
Technology Training and Curriculum
Enrique Mejia, Iowa Department for the Blind
* 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Advocating for Accessibility
Matt Hackert, National Federation of the Blind
* 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. Accessibility of Chromebooks
Karl Belanger, National Federation of the Blind
* 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Producing Tactile Graphics and 3D Models: Nonvisual
and Collaborative Workflows
Chancey Fleet, New York Public Library
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon E
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
8:30 a.m. NFB Camp
Preregistration by June 20 was required. Please see convention note 11 for
further information.
8:30 - 11:30 a.m. What’s New with Jaws, Fusion, and Zoomtext
Galerie 6
Join Eric Damery for his annual User Group meeting. We’ll demonstrate and
discuss the recent developments and look at what's coming in 2023. Join the
fun as we kick off the 2022 Convention with the JAWS teams from Training,
Sales, and Marketing. Receive a gift for attending.
Eric Damery, Vice President, Software Product Management, Vispero
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Employment Committee Meeting
Studio 1
Annual meeting of the NFB Employment Committee. Learn about past and current
events and committee initiatives. What is the future of remote employment?
Interesting employment-related presentations. Ask questions and influence
the committee’s work.
Dick Davis, Chair
10:00 - 11:00 a.m. The State of Digital Accessibility in 2022
Studio 10
Digital accessibility is becoming an increasing priority for companies
across the United States. In this session, we’ll look at how business
perspectives are changing, new standards and regulations, accessibility in
new technologies, and what we can expect in the years to come.
Tom Babinszki, Vice President of Accessibility, eSSENTIAL Accessibility
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Breakout Sessions
Studio 7
* 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Making Health and Fitness a Lifestyle
Learn all about LEAN as we share how to make health and fitness an integral
part of your day-to-day life.
* 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Nutrition and Fitness Resources Roundtable
Come share the apps and resources you love for eating well and staying fit.
Learn about other offerings from new friends during our roundtable
discussion.
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Target Accessibility Q&A and Feedback
Galerie 5
Drop by for an open forum and meet members of Target’s digital accessibility
team. Ask questions about shopping target.com, our mobile apps, and in-store
experiences. We welcome feedback on what you like and how we can improve our
accessibility efforts.
Steve Decker, Lead Accessibility Consultant, Target
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Considerations for Members with Intersecting Disabilities
Studio 8
Are you interested in learning about members who have intersecting
disabilities beyond blindness? Come for resources, membership involvement,
networking, and understanding. Many members have other disabilities within
the NFB, and an environment of inclusion is important.
Doula Jarboe and Jessica Beecham, Coordinators
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Glad to Be Back: News from HumanWare
Galerie 6
Join HumanWare as we look at updates to our Braille products including the
BrailleNote Touch Plus and the BI X series Braille displays. Time will also
be dedicated to what is new in our low-vision portfolio, and to the
demonstration of a new and exciting GPS product.
Andrew Flatres, Customer Service, and Peter Tucic, Director of Strategic
Partnerships, HumanWare
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Job Seeker Seminar
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Pick a room and the interactive discussion leaders come to you. Topics are
Job Search as if You Are Getting Paid, Marketing Yourself in Every Aspect of
Your Life, and Interactive Interview Skills and Practice. Just beginning?
Choose Job Search Fundamentals 101 and stay put.
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Tactile Art and Picture Books
Studio 6
Drop-in art making and reading activities, free for all ages. Bring your
friends and meet new people. Read picture books with tactile pictures. Make
raised-line drawings and sculptures inspired by the stories in the books or
inspired by the stories within you!
Ann Cunningham, Coordinator
1:30 - 5:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email <mailto:president at nopbc.org>
NOPBCpres at gmail.com for details.
2:00 - 5:00 p.m. NAGDU: Awareness Is Everybody's Business
Galerie 5
Come join the National Association of Guide Dog Users for our annual
seminar. Participants will learn strategies for becoming their own best
advocate, gain a better understanding of legal matters pertaining to guide
dog users, get updates from training programs, and much more.
Stacie Gallegos and Paul Sandoval, NAGDU Seminar Committee Co-chairs
4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Website Coordinators and Contributors Meeting
Studio 8
Whether you currently have a role or someday want to contribute, we know
everyone can get involved in NFB affiliate/division websites from content to
code. Join us to learn about the progress of our Drupal transition and help
build upcoming training sessions for others.
Corbb O'Connor, Chair
5:00 - 7:30 p.m. Mix-and-Mingle Reception for Rehabilitation Professionals
Riverview 1
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Diversity, Language, and Barriers
Studio 4
Language is important to our identities. How do we develop inclusive and
consensual language when communicating? Learn practices for becoming
language conscious, engaging in respectful dialogue, and using inclusive
language to connect with Federationists of diverse backgrounds.
Shannon Cantan, Coordinator
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. NFB Legal Office Hours
Beauregard
Meet with a disability rights attorney to discuss blindness discrimination
concerns regarding employment, technology, education, voting, travel, COVID
tests, housing, parental rights, and more. Schedule your appointment by
emailing
<file:///C:/Users/sskaarer/Dropbox/2020%20convention/agenda/vyingling@nfb.or
g> vyingling at nfb.org. Please request your appointment by June 23.
6:30 - 9:00 p.m. NOPBC Family Game Night
Riverview 2
Relax, chat, meet new families and teachers, and connect with old friends.
Veteran attendees will be on hand to welcome you and provide information.
We’ll have games available to play and we’ll demonstrate easy ways to adapt
games at home for accessibility.
6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Technology Evaluation Committee Exhibitor's Showcase
Studio 7
All are invited to join the Technology Evaluation Committee’s Exhibitor’s
Showcase to learn about low- to high-tech products from vendors. From
hardware to software and more. You can hear the latest from everyone at this
meeting. You do not have to be on the committee to attend.
Mark Jones, Chair
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. NFB in Judaism Meeting
Studio 3
Join us as we discuss ways that people who are blind and Jewish can be
integral members of the Jewish community. We will also discuss ways that
members of the NFB can reach out to bring other blind people who happen to
be Jewish into the Federation.
Stewart Prost, Chair
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Independence Science SciDot
Studio 1
Independence Science and Tactile Engineering are leaders in science access
for the blind. We develop accessible data collection tools. Come see our
newest product, the SciDot, which involves real-time access to refreshable
Braille graphics technology. See our products in action.
7:30 - 9:30 p.m. NABS Student Networking
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Blind students, kick off your in-person convention right by joining our
national student division to mix and mingle. Whether you are new or
returning, we can't wait to welcome you!
Trisha Kulkarni, President
8:00 - 9:30 p.m. Rookie Roundup
Acadia Ballroom
First-time convention attendees—don’t miss this event! President Riccobono
and former rookies will be on hand to welcome you and answer questions about
the week’s activities.
Pam Allen, Chair and First Vice President, National Federation of the Blind;
President, National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana; Director,
Louisiana Center for the Blind
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon E
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
8:30 - 10:30 a.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email <mailto:president at nopbc.org>
NOPBCpres at gmail.com for details.
8:30 - 11:00 a.m. Committee for Advancement and Promotion of Braille
Studio 10
The committee will discuss developments in the teaching and delivery of
Braille, research priorities, Braille-related policy, strategies for
bringing improvements where needed, and resources and activities across our
organization. All are welcome!
Jennifer Dunnam, Chair
8:45 - 10:15 a.m. Mujeres of the Federation
Studio 7
This bilingual celebration of blind Latina excellence features dynamic
speakers. Come for an environment of inspiration, mentorship, and strategies
for success to the next generation of blind Latina trailblazers.
Rosy Carranza, Coordinator
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Blind and Mena: A Different Type of Brown
Studio 1
Members who are American Arab, North African, Middle Eastern, South Asian,
Muslim, and Sikh face unique challenges in post-9/11 America. Join us to
learn about community identities and stereotypes as well as resources
available to members with these intersectionalities.
Ronza Othman, Coordinator
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Cultivating Asian American and Pacific Islander Identities
Studio 3
Connect with blind Asian members to discuss cultural practices and to share
strategies for approaching vision loss. Provide your insight on delivering
culturally relevant outreach, including producing materials, messaging
techniques, and identifying needed resources.
Michell Gip, Coordinator
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Orientation to Career Fair
Galerie 1
Introduction to this year's Career Fair. Last-minute information for
registered employers and job seekers. Meet the employers and learn exactly
what they are looking for.
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Membership Committee Meeting
Studio 4
Affiliate membership chairs, membership committee members, chapter
presidents,
and all Federationists are invited to join us in finding creative ways to
build our membership. Share best practices to take our chapters, affiliates,
and our national organization to the next level.
Denise Avant and Tarik Williams, Co-chairs
10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Common Digital Accessibility Barriers
Studio 8
Learn about the most frequently encountered digital accessibility barriers
on the web and in mobile apps. We’ll share how we help companies identify,
prioritize, and fix them. We’ll also look at the most common issues cited in
demand letters and litigation.
Tom Babinszki, Vice President of Accessibility, eSSENTIAL Accessibility
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Colorado Center for the Blind Open House
Galerie 3
Get the inside scoop from our vibrant Colorado Center staff and dedicated
students! Learn about new apps for your phone, get some favorite recipes,
and use a click rule. Hear about our enrichment classes including tactile
art, yoga, challenge recreation, and employment.
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Meeting
Studio 2
Come hear about the progress that the National Federation of the Blind’s
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is making. What questions do you
have? How can we drive DEI efforts across the Federation together? Get
answers about state committees, networking, and much more.
Shawn Callaway and Colin Wong, Co-chairs
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Code of Conduct Listening Session
Bacchus
Meet individually with members of the NFB Code of Conduct Feedback Committee
to share feedback and suggestions regarding the NFB Code of Conduct. The
focus is on both improving the participant experience and socializing the
Code. Schedule your appointment by emailing Codefeedback at nfb.org
<mailto:Codefeedback at nfb.org> or calling 410-659-9314, extension 2475.
Please request your appointment by June 30.
1:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee
Acadia Ballroom
Sharon Maneki, Chair
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Career Fair
Galerie 4, 5, and 6
Our first in-person career fair since 2019. Come meet employers who are
interested in hiring you, including many of our convention sponsors. This is
your first step to a great future. Preregistration required. (Sorry, no
walk-ins.)
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Tactile Art and Picture Books
Studio 6
Drop-in art making and reading activities, free for all ages. Bring your
friends and meet new people. Read picture books with tactile pictures. Make
raised-line drawings and sculptures inspired by the stories in the books or
inspired by the stories within you!
Ann Cunningham, Coordinator
2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Apple, Amazon, or Alexander Graham Bell
Studio 7
In this session you will learn how to enjoy NFB-NEWSLINE®, a free,
easy-to-use audio and Braille accessible library of information, available
anytime, anywhere, using a touch-tone telephone, iPhone/iPad/iPod mobile
app, or an Amazon smart speaker.
Scott White, Director of Sponsored Technology Programs, National Federation
of the Blind
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. NFB in the Kitchen Group
Studio 8
Sometimes all you need to change up your regular cooking routine is a little
spark of inspiration and a few tools. As a community of cooking enthusiasts
strengthening confidence, come, let’s talk all things food, tools, tech, and
kitchen. Bring your ideas and enthusiasm.
Regina Mitchell, Chair
4:00 - 5:30 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Second Annual NFB Muslims Group Seminar
Studio 1
Diverse in culture, united in faith: finding our space in the blindness
movement. Join us to learn about our group and our involvement in the NFB.
Participate in a discussion on intersection between faith and blindness,
access, inclusion, diversity, identity, and advocacy.
Tasnim Alshuli, Chair
4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Breakout Sessions
Studio 5
* 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Mindfulness and Meditation
Join us as we explore and practice mindfulness and share useful resources
you can use to further your practice.
* 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Sports and Fitness Recovery Techniques
One of the most important aspects of athletic performance and stress
management is proper recovery. Learn to foam roll, check out a massage gun,
explore trigger point techniques, and learn stretches to take your recovery
to the next level.
4:30 - 6:00 p.m. Learn to Host an NFB Youth Program!
Studio 3
Youth programs can be a great way to introduce new families to the
Federation. If you are curious about what it takes to host an NFB BELL®
Academy, STEM2U, or other NFB youth program, come hear from experienced
program coordinators about what has helped make their events successful,
fun, and full of learning.
Karen Anderson, Education Programs Coordinator, National Federation of the
Blind
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. Dream Makers Circle and Planned Giving Q&A
Studio 4
Are you wondering about planned giving and our Dream Makers Circle Legacy
Society? Do you want to learn how easy it is to join? Come and ask all your
questions.
Patti Chang, Director of Outreach, National Federation of the Blind
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. NFB Legal Office Hours
Beauregard
Meet with a disability rights attorney to discuss blindness discrimination
concerns regarding employment, technology, education, voting, travel, COVID
tests, housing, parental rights, and more. Schedule your appointment by
emailing vyingling at nfb.org <mailto:vyingling at nfb.org> . Please request your
appointment by June 23.
6:15 - 10:00 p.m. National Association of Blind Students (NABS) Annual
Business Meeting
Galerie 4, 5, and 6
Join our vibrant national student division as we reflect on lessons learned
from the pandemic and pave our path forward! Only members who have completed
our membership process before June 30 will be eligible to participate in
official business.
Trisha Kulkarni, President
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Greek and Masonic Group
Studio 10
Are you a member of a national Greek organization, the Masons, or the
Eastern Star? Help build our relationships with Greek letter organizations
to ensure inclusion and participation, to engage in fundraising, and to
serve as a resource for the blind considering membership.
Shawn Callaway, Chair
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. LGBTQ+ Educational Workshop
Studio 1
Join members of the LGBTQ+ Group to discuss factors that impact our
inclusion in society. This is an educational workshop focused on eliminating
popular misconceptions and addressing prevalent misinformation, especially
those issues
that affect blind Federationists.
Kaden Colton, Coordinator
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. White Cane Committee & Fundraising Seminar
Studio 8
Join us for a seminar. Our state conventions and access to our members have
value. Learn how to gain financial support from things we already do. Do you
want to maximize donor support based on our visibility and our import or
have general fundraising questions to ask?
Everett Bacon, Chair
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. SSI AND SSDI 101: What You Need To Know
Galerie 2
Ever wonder what the difference between Blind Work Expenses and Impairment
Related Work Expenses is? Afraid you might go over the SSDI earnings cliff?
Come hear from an expert on these programs and have all your questions
answered.
Michael Dalto, Social Security Expert
7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Legislative Meet Up
Galerie 3
A recap of Washington Seminar, a rundown of priorities, and an opportunity
for legislative directors and others interested in advocating for the rights
of the nation's blind to exchange strategies to move our legislative
priorities at the local, state, and federal levels.
Kyle Walls, Jeff Kaloc, and Justin Young, Government Affairs Team, National
Federation of the Blind
8:00 - 10:00 p.m. Blind Parents Group
Studio 2
There are many books on how to be the best parent, but not many on how to be
the best blind parent. Meet the people writing the pages of the book on how
to be a blind parent by simply living and not letting blindness hold them
back from raising families. You won't want to miss this meeting!
Lisamaria Martinez, Chair
Thursday, July 7, 2022
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon A
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. COVID Testing
Salon D
9:00 - 11:30 a.m. NFB Board Meeting
Acadia and Bissonet Ballroom
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp captioning link: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email NOPBCpres at gmail.com
<mailto:president at nopbc.org> for details.
1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Amateur “Ham” Radio Division Annual Meeting
Studio 10
Talking with people around the world, responding to emergencies, and
tinkering with electronics are just some of the benefits of becoming a
licensed ham radio operator. Join us in a discussion about the hobby and
plans for a permanent ham radio station at the Jernigan Institute.
Corbb O’Connor, President
1:00 - 3:30 p.m. Community Service Division Celebration
Salon B
The party starts here with the Community Service Division! Who dat? We are a
division with willing workers serving beyond the six dots. The Big Easy is
known to celebrate culture and community. Hence, our division is
enthusiastically shouting, "Let the good times roll!”
Jeanetta Price, President
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Blind Rehabilitation Professionals Division
Studio 2
Come join your peers working in blind rehabilitation fields as we support
each other through presentations and discussions on professional
development, employment ideas, and resources for supporting well-rounded
rehabilitation programs.
* 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Networking opportunity
Amy Porterfield, President
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. NFB DeafBlind Division Business Meeting
Galerie 1
Join the first-ever NFB DeafBlind Division expo emphasizing relationship
building, communication challenges, and deafblind-friendly alternative
techniques. Get updates on deafblind issues, the division’s business, and
elections.
* 1:00 p.m. Registration (dues are $10)
Alice Eaddy, President
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. National Association of Blind Merchants
Galerie 6
This year, 2022, is the year of the tiger. The tiger embodies courage,
bravery, and strength. We will feature presentations by Lauren McLarney and
Michael Dalto, who will discuss self-employment and Social Security.
Nicky Gacos, President
1:00 - 4:30 p.m. Writers Division Business Meeting
Studio 5
Come join the Writers Division for our annual business meeting. Come learn
our contest winners, enjoy readings, participate in a Writers Round Up 2.0.
Registration will be $10 in person or online.
Shelley Alongi, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Senior Division
Studio 7
Join us for our Senior Division meeting where you can help plan for: our
winter virtual senior retreat; brainstorm discussion topics for the coming
year’s conference calls;
and meet Jessica Beecham to teach us about exercise and healthy living.
Judy Sanders, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. NFB in Communities of Faith
Studio 3
Publishers of faith-based literature will provide an update regarding the
work of their respective organizations. Other speakers will describe how
their faith has helped them to overcome challenges. Division business will
be conducted.
Tom Anderson, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Assistive Technology Trainers Division
Galerie 4
Current and aspiring tech trainers: join us for professional development,
networking, and fellowship. We’ll explore what it takes to become a great
trainer, how to help our students build sustainable digital literacy skills,
and strategies for remote training.
Chancey Fleet, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Performing Arts Division and Voice Acting
Galerie 2
Come prepared to network with other performers! Join us for our annual
business meeting followed by a workshop all about voice acting and voiceover
work.
Katelyn MacIntyre, President
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. NFB in Computer Science
Galerie 5
Enhancing nonvisual access to information technology and improving the
ability of blind information and computer technology professionals to
compete in today's world.
Brian Buhrow, President
1:00 - 6:30 p.m. National Association of Blind Lawyers Division Meeting
Galerie 3
Examine legal issues arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic for the blind;
address ongoing struggles to gain equal access to websites, employment,
legal texts, and exams; share practice tips and technology tools for blind
lawyers. Please go to www.blindlawyers.net <http://www.blindlawyers.net/>
to register for the meeting.
* 12:30 p.m. Registration
* 5:00 p.m. Ticketed reception
Scott LaBarre, President
1:00 - 3:45 p.m. National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC)
Annual Meeting
Studio 9
Mix and mingle with vendors, blind mentors, and other parents. Learn about
cutting-edge products and programs for our kids. Experience Parent Power.
Participate in our business meeting, elections, and much more!
Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President
1:30 - 4:00 p.m. National Organization of Blind Educators Division
Studio 6
Blind teachers and educators discuss techniques they use in their
classrooms. Participants meet in groups specific to grade level and content
area to create a network of colleagues and mentors. If you teach or are
considering a career in teaching, please join us.
Cayte Mendez, President
2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Diabetes Action Network Annual Meeting
Studio 1
Come learn about blind diabetics who are self-sufficient, manage their
disease, and work for the development of technology equivalent to that
available to other diabetics. Join with those who have overcome being scared
and who have embraced the challenge of this disease.
Debbie Wunder, President
2:00 - 5:00 p.m. National Association of Blind Veterans Meeting
Studio 4
All veterans are invited. We will conduct our annual business meeting after
a short networking period. We will not be holding elections this year.
Remember your dues must be paid in full to vote.
* 2:00 p.m. Networking
* 3:00 p.m. Business meeting
Vernon Humphrey, President
2:30 - 5:00 p.m. Human Services Division Annual Meeting
Salon C
If you have a passion for people, we invite you to join our meeting! We will
discuss strategies for meeting needs of diverse populations, conduct
self-care activities, and problem-solve issues related to human services.
Register here: https://forms.gle/yrDJsKqERJUdFmva8.
Candice Chapman, President
3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Meeting
Studio 10
Come move, learn, share, have fun, and get down to business with the Sports
and Recreation Division at our annual business meeting.
Jessica Beecham, President
5:00 - 6:00 p.m. New Aira Desktop App Enhances School and Work
Studio 6
Aira is secure and professional visual interpreting for your smart phone and
now desktop computer. Learn about the new desktop release and how we’re
supporting the community with Aira at no cost at universities, as a job
seeker, as a small business owner, and at Aira Employment Partners.
Troy Otillio, CEO, and Sandra Marcus, Vice President of Marketing, Aira
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults
Braille Book Fair
Riverview 1
Browse tables of new and used Braille and print/Braille books. We have
fiction, nonfiction, and early readers through multi-volume novels,
cookbooks, and more
—all offered at no cost. Volunteers will box and prepare selections to be
shipped to your home via free matter. Donations accepted.
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Affiliate Presidents and Treasurers
Galerie 6
All state affiliate presidents and treasurers are asked to attend this
session. We will discuss issues related to tracking affiliate finances and
other aspects of organization administration. Participants can discuss state
issues with facilitator Bridgid Burke.
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Professionals in Blindness Education Division
Galerie 4
All professionals serving students from birth through age twenty-one are
welcome
and encouraged to join our informative and interactive meeting. Come network
and collaborate, sharing and learning with colleagues and future educators.
Emily Gibbs, President
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. National Association of Guide Dog Users Division
Studio 9
Come learn how to make an informed choice when deciding to get a guide dog.
Get current updates from our legal counsel about matters pertaining to guide
dog users. Find out what NAGDU has been up to over the past year and elect
our leaders!
Raul Gallegos, President
6:30 - 10:00 p.m. Science and Engineering Division
Studio 3
Learn about several interactive graphics methods, blind-friendly math
education methods, the NFB SABER project for students, the Pearson Nemeth
Code Curriculum, and Science and Engineering Division mentoring.
* 6:30 p.m. Registration
* 7:00 p.m. Meeting
John Miller, President
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Sports and Recreation Division Breakout Sessions
Studio 8
* 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Anytime Anywhere Fitness
Join us to learn and practice body weight exercises that can be done
anywhere, any time! Use them to build workouts that you can take with you
wherever you go!
* 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Anytime Anywhere Fitness
Join us for an advanced High Intensity Interval Training Workout. This is a
workout designed for those who regularly engage in intense physical activity
and have a basic foundation in body weight exercises.
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Upward Mobility Seminar
Galerie 1
You are employed, but what comes next? Step out of your comfort zone with
some innovative ideas about career advancement and entrepreneurship.
Brainstorming is always welcome.
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee. Dick Davis, Chair
7:00 - 9:30 p.m. Black Leaders Serving for Advancement
Galerie 5
Celebrate the numerous contributions of black Federation leaders. This
meeting will serve to establish the foundation for a proposed division to
inspire the next generation of black blind leaders through program
activities to mentor and build the diversity of the movement.
Shawn Callaway, Coordinator
7:30 - 10:00 p.m. Blind Government Employment Meeting
Studio 4
Join employees, retirees, and applicants for employment of federal, state,
and local government entities, including pseudo-government entities, as we
reorganize and merge the Blind Public Employees Division and Blind
Government Employment Committee. We will discuss solutions to issues faced
by blind public servants.
Ronza Othman and Everette Bacon, Co-chairs, Blind Government Employment
Committee
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Friends of Recovery Meeting
Studio 1
All convention attendees interested in getting or remaining clean and sober
are welcome to our confidential meeting. For more information, call
828-505-0338.
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Affiliate Historians: An Introduction
Studio 7
Join us as we give a brief introduction to the role of affiliate/division
historians and how to approach saving items of importance from the start. A
Q&A will follow. Open to anyone. Affiliate presidents and historians
encouraged to attend.
Nichole Chrissis, Archivist, National Federation of the Blind
8:00 - 9:30 p.m. Training Champions with the BLIND, Inc. Team
Galerie 2
Join the staff of BLIND, Inc. for this interactive event sure to help you
learn how attending blindness skills training will help you become an all
star!
8:00 - 10:00 p.m. Blind Survivors Group
Studio 6
Join the newly established Blind Survivors Group for our inaugural kickoff
meeting where we will reflect, support, and plan for future survivor and
victim-centered programming within the Federation. Please email
survivors at nfb.org <mailto:survivors at nfb.org> with any access needs ahead of
the event!
Kathryn Webster and Danielle Montour, Co-chairs
9:00 - 11:00 p.m. LGBT+: Let's Talk About the Plus
Salon B
Come one, come all! We warmly welcome you to a hybrid event for our LGBT+
Group. Not sure if you belong? Well, let's talk about that plus! Note that a
Zoom link will be published as we get closer.
Sanho Steele-Louchart, Chair
Friday, July 8, 2022
8:00 - 8:45 a.m. Devotions
Studio 1
8:45 - 9:15 a.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Banquet Ticket Sales
($75)
Salon A
8:45 - 9:15 a.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Opening General Session (Friday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Call to Order and Invocation
Welcoming Ceremonies: Back Together on the Bayou
2022 National Convention Host Committee: National Federation of the Blind of
Louisiana
Celebration of Freedom: Veterans Recognized
Vernon Humphrey, President, National Association of Blind Veterans, a
Division of the National Federation of the Blind; Mauk, Georgia
Roll Call of States and Appointment of Nominating Committee
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. What's New with Amazon Accessibility
Studio 2
Join us for demos and discussion of accessible Amazon products including
Alexa and Smarthome, Fire TV at home and in your car, Fire tablets for
school and work, audio description on Prime Video, books and shopping, and
of course, exciting Amazon prizes for lucky attendees.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Louisiana Center for the Blind Reception
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Please join us to learn about our transformative programs! Reconnect with
alumni and staff! Find out more about graduate degrees at Louisiana Tech
University! Discover how LCB training will help you live the life you want!
Pam Allen, Executive Director
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Leader Dog Meet and Greet
Studio 4
Meet Leader Dog team members and learn about the free services provided at
Leader Dogs for the Blind! Participants can ask questions and hear about the
free orientation and mobility program, virtual learning opportunities, and
the new podcast, Taking the Lead!
David Locklin, Chief Program Officer, and Tina Goedertier, Manager of
Training, Leader Dogs for the Blind
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. What's New in Google Accessibility?
Galerie 6
Get the latest on what’s happening with Google and accessibility.
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. New Aira Desktop App Enhances School and Work
Galerie 5
Aira is secure and professional visual interpreting for your smart phone and
now desktop computer. Learn about the new desktop release and how we’re
supporting the community with free Aira at universities, as a job seeker, as
a small business owner, and at Aira Employment Partners.
Troy Otillio, CEO, and Sandra Marcus, Vice President of Marketing, Aira
12:45 - 1:45 p.m. Finding Ms. Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant
Studio 1
Do you identify as a fabulous female? Well, this is the session for you!
Join the Finding Ms. Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant Tour this year! Learn
how you can take home the title and win $1,000 cash and prizes and more. No
pageant or model experience is required.
Krystle Allen, President, Eyes Like Mine, Inc.
1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Islamic Friday Prayer Services
Studio 9
The NFB Muslims Group is offering the Islamic Friday prayer services for all
Muslims. Non-Muslims are also welcome to attend.
1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Registration ($30), Packet Pickup, and Final Banquet Ticket
Sales ($75)
Salon A
General Session II (Friday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Call to Order
Presidential Report
Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore,
Maryland
Giving Wings to Transformation: The Magic of Partnership with the Blind
Movement
Craig Meador, President, American Printing House; Louisville, Kentucky
Bruce Miles, Chief Executive Officer, HumanWare; Drummondville, Québec,
Canada
Accelerating Our Blind Driver Challenge: Raising Expectations at 211.43 mph
Dan Parker, Blind Machinist and Racecar Driver; Columbus, Georgia
Owning Our Future: Continuous Revolution in Training through the Organized
Blind Movement
Joanne Wilson, Founder, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, Louisiana
Pam Allen, Executive Director, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston,
Louisiana
Julie Deden, Executive Director, Colorado Center for the Blind; Littleton,
Colorado
Jennifer Kennedy, Executive Director, Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions
(BLIND), Inc.; Minneapolis, Minnesota
Federation SAFE: Blind Survivors, Leadership, and Our Shared Commitment
Kathryn Webster, Co-chair, Blind Survivors Group; Boston, Massachusetts
Danielle Montour, Co-chair, Blind Survivors Group; Brooklyn, New York
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Research and Academic Professionals Meeting
Salon C
The National Federation of the Blind Blindness Initiatives’ Research
Advisory Council invites interested individuals to discuss current research,
discuss publication in the Journal of Blindness Innovation and Research
(JBIR), and share ideas for increasing the research and academic presence of
the NFB.
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. NFB Code Process Discussion with Tonya Baña
Studio 8
NFB Code of Conduct external investigator Tonya Baña will share information
about the process used to investigate reports of sexual misconduct in the
NFB.
Ronza Othman, Chair, NFB Code of Conduct Feedback Committee; Kathryn Webster
and Danielle Montour, Co-chairs, NFB Survivors Group
6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Pinot and Pups
Studio 7
Parents: we are so excited about our growing K9 Buddy program here at GDB!
We believe that a dog can make a remarkable difference in any child's life
by fostering a sense of caring, companionship, and a sense of
responsibility. Come enjoy a glass of wine with me and learn more.
Jane Flower, Youth Outreach Specialist, Guide Dogs for the Blind
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Communications Committee
Studio 2
Join chapter, affiliate, and division leaders to learn best practices in
communications. We’ll explore the tools available to us through our national
office and exchange ideas. Learn to effectively use communication to build
the Federation. Everyone is welcome!
Liz Wisecarver, Chair
7:00 - 9:45 p.m. NOPBC Concurrent Sessions: IEP Night
Studio 3 and 4
* 7:00 - 8:15 p.m. Getting the Lay of the Land: Blindness-Specific
IEP Tips (Studio 3)
Braille Is Fun! Learning Braille through Games (Studio 4)
* 8:30 - 9:45 p.m. Alternatives to Due Process (Studio 3)
Braille Displays and Braille Embossers: What’s Available and What Are They
Good For? (Studio 4)
Sponsored by the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children Division
(NOPBC).
8:00 - 11:00 p.m. Welcome Dance and Reception
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Laissez les bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll! Your Louisiana krewe
invites you to enjoy live music and dancing! Connect with friends and make
new ones! Come join us for a fun-filled event!
Saturday, July 9, 2022
8:00 - 8:45 a.m. Devotions
Studio 1
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Registration ($30) and Packet Pickup
Salon A
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
General Session III (Saturday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: <https://zoom.us/j/96287762142>
https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: <https://ecs.1capapp.com/event/nfb>
https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Call to Order and Invocation
Financial Report, Including the Honor Roll Call
Elections
Living the Life She Wants: Staying Grounded and Shooting for the Moon with
Federation Philosophy
Denna Lambert, Lead for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility,
Early Stage Innovations and Partnerships (ESIP), Technology Mission
Directorate, National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Greenbelt,
Maryland
Living the Life He Wants: Stoking Employment Opportunities through Movies,
Sports, and Achievement
Jack Chen, Assistant General Counsel, Meta (Facebook); New York, New York
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Exhibit Hall and Independence Market
Napoleon Ballroom, Sheraton
Final opportunity to visit the Exhibit Hall and Independence Market.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Dan Parker’s World Record Corvette
Porte Cochère (Valet Entrance)
Five years ago, Dan Parker acquired a 2008 Corvette C6 and set about
repurposing the gutted car to seek a Guinness World Record. He took it to
New Mexico in March of this year for that attempt. Come check out the car
that Dan built to go over 211 mph—shattering the record.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. NOPBC Brainstorming Session
Salon B
Please share your ideas with us. What did you like at this convention? What
resources would help you stay connected throughout the year? What workshops
might you like to see us offer next year? Be a part of this valuable
conversation.
Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President.
12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Code of Conduct Listening Session
Bacchus
Meet individually with members of the NFB Code of Conduct Feedback Committee
to share feedback and suggestions regarding the NFB Code of Conduct. The
focus is on both improving the participant experience and socializing the
Code. Schedule your appointment by emailing <mailto:Codefeedback at nfb.org>
Codefeedback at nfb.org or calling 410-659-9314, extension 2475. Please request
your appointment by June 30.
12:45 - 1:45 p.m. How the Blind Community Can Shape NFTs
Galerie 4
What are NFTs and how can you get involved? Learn and discuss how the blind
community can and should play a role in evolving economic opportunities in
crypto. Suman Kanuganti, CEO and Founder of Personal.ai
12:45 - 1:45 p.m. What's New with Instagram and Facebook Family
Studio 3
Learn about new accessibility features in Instagram, Facebook, and others in
the family of apps at Meta.
1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Registration ($30) and Packet Pickup
Salon A
General Session IV (Saturday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: <https://zoom.us/j/96287762142>
https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: <https://ecs.1capapp.com/event/nfb>
https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Call to Order
A Champion for Equal Opportunities: Making a Difference from Louisiana’s
Second Congressional District
The Honorable Troy Carter, United States House of Representatives, Second
Congressional District; New Orleans, Louisiana
Who Owns This Story: Audio Description as Art Not Charity
Moderator: Everette Bacon, President, National Federation of the Blind of
Utah; Salt Lake City, Utah
Elisa Beniero, Dubbing Title Manager, Netflix; Los Angeles, California
Rick Boggs, CEO and Founder, Audio Eyes; Los Angeles, California
Roy Samuelson, Founder, The Audio Description Network Alliance, and Kevin’s
Way; Los Angeles, California
Owning the Change We Want: A Report from the Federation's Advocacy and
Policy Department
John Paré, Jr., Executive Director for Advocacy and Policy, National
Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
Jeff Kaloc, NFB Government Affairs Specialist; Baltimore, Maryland
Justin Young, NFB Government Affairs Specialist; Baltimore, Maryland
Reports, Resolutions, and Other Business
Adjourn
5:15 - 7:00 p.m. Dan Parker’s World Record Corvette
Porte Cochère (Valet Entrance)
Five years ago, Dan Parker acquired a 2008 Corvette C6 and set about
repurposing the gutted car to seek a Guinness World Record. He took it to
New Mexico in March of this year for that attempt. Come check out the car
that Dan built to go over 211 mph—shattering the record.
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Advanced Screening of Surpassing Sight
Salon D
Join us for an advanced screening of the film Surpassing Sight, which
parallels the journey of Jack Chen and Dan Berlin, high-level blind
businessmen and competitive athletes to tackle the toughest cycling race in
the world, racing from California to Maryland.
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Digital Accessibility Professionals Meetup
Salon B
We designed this informal networking session for those working full-time in
digital accessibility for corporations and nonprofits. We'll share best
practices, trends that uniquely affect us as blind people, and suggestions
for growing the Federation's brand in the field.
Corbb O’Connor and Matt Hackert, Facilitators
7:00 - 10:00 p.m. NOPBC Youth Track
Balcony L
Registration required. Email <mailto:president at nopbc.org>
NOPBCpres at gmail.com for details.
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Friends of Recovery Meeting
Studio 1
All convention attendees interested in getting or remaining clean and sober
are welcome to our confidential meeting. For more information, call
828-505-0338.
8:00 - 11:00 p.m. Twentieth Annual Showcase of Talent
Galerie 1, 2, and 3
Join us for a night of great performances! Whether you take the stage or
support your friends from the audience, it’s always an enjoyable evening of
entertainment. Performers $10; admission $5. Cash prizes awarded. Email
<mailto:nfbpad at gmail.com> nfbpad at gmail.com with questions or to sign up.
Sunday, July 10, 2022
7:30 - 8:45 a.m. Islamic Eid al-Adha Holiday Prayer Services
Studio 9
In observance of Eid al-Adha holiday, the NFB Muslims Group is offering the
Islamic Eid al-Adha holiday prayer services for all Muslims. Non-Muslims are
also welcome to attend.
8:00 - 8:45 a.m. Devotions
Studio 1
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Registration ($30) and Packet Pickup
Salon A
8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
General Session V (Sunday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Call to Order and Invocation
Owning Your Creative Content: Cryptocurrency, Accessibility, and the
Organized Blind Movement
Suman Kanuganti, CEO, Personal.ai; San Diego, California
Building the Future Together: A Report from Our Jernigan Institute
Anil Lewis, Executive Director for Blindness Initiatives, National
Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
Stretching the Dimensions of Nonvisual Learning: Blind-Led Youth Programming
and Engineering
Natalie Shaheen, Project Director, NFB SABER Project and NFB EQ Programs,
and Assistant Professor, Illinois State University; Normal, Illinois
Madeline Mau, Student, NFB EQ Online 2021; Princeton Junction, New Jersey
Robert Eggleston, Student, NFB EQ 2021; Virginia Beach, Virginia
Maura Loberg, Student, NFB EQ 2019; Lincoln, Nebraska
Gabriel Mendez-Frances, Student, NFB EQ 2019; Birmingham, Alabama
Andrea Cataquiz, Student, NFB EQ 2021; Glendale Heights, Illinois
Abby Duffy, Student, NFB EQ 2019 and NFB EQ Online 2020; Concord, New
Hampshire
Accessibility Awareness on a Global Scale: Bringing Tech Professionals to
Our Movement of Equality
Jennison Asuncion, Co-founder, Global Accessibility Awareness Day, and Vice
Chair, GAAD Foundation; Sunnyvale, California
Creating Content with Accessibility as the Default: Celebrating Drupal's
Olivero Theme and Calling for More Blind Contributors
Mike Gifford, Senior Strategist, CivicActions, and Drupal Core Accessibility
Maintainer; Lafayette, California
The Right to Participate Fully in Twenty-First Century America: Civil Rights
Advancement at the United States Department of Justice
Anne Raish, Principal Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Section, United States
Department of Justice; Washington, District of Columbia
Leading through Literacy: A New Library Director Committed to Partnership
with the Organized Blind Movement
Jason Broughton, Director, National Library Service for the Blind and Print
Disabled; Washington, District of Columbia
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Raffles and Drawings
Studio 10
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. National Library Service: Help Us Shape the Future
Galerie 4
Join us to provide your input, sign up for beta test opportunities, and see
the latest
NLS technology including both eReaders. This session is hosted by the newly
formed Patron Engagement Section, and we are seeking your feedback.
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Contribute to Making Drupal Even More Accessible
Salon B
Mike Gifford spearheads Drupal’s accessibility. Many of Drupal's advances in
accessibility have been inspired by blind developers. Learn how you can be
involved, even if you aren't a developer. Many open source projects depend
on volunteers, and you, too, can contribute.
Mike Gifford, Senior Strategist, CivicActions, and Drupal Core Accessibility
Maintainer
Noon - 1:45 p.m. Banquet Exchange
Acadia Ballroom Foyer
Final opportunity to exchange banquet tickets prior to banquet.
General Session VI (Sunday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Call to Order
The Fifteenth Annual Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards
Everette Bacon, Chairperson, Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award Committee, and Board
Member, National Federation of the Blind; Salt Lake City, Utah
Transformation in Employment: Smart Partnership to Build the Future Together
Regina Kline, CEO and Founder, SmartJob, LLC; Alexandria, Virginia
Diversity at Kellogg: A Commitment that Raises Expectations for Blind
Empowerment
Wilson Ray, Sr., Director, Retail Sales Operations, Kellogg Company;
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Engineering a New Response: Transforming At-Home Testing through Partnership
with the Blind
Jill Heemskerk, Deputy Director, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging
and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health; Bethesda, Maryland
Going My Way: Driving Accessibility through Innovative Autonomous
Transportation
Michelle Peacock, Global Public Policy Director, Waymo; Mountain View,
California
Supreme Action to Shatter Low Expectations: Living Blind and Serving on the
Bench
Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein, Michigan Supreme Court; Lansing,
Michigan
Owning Our Stories: Raising the Impact of Individuals by Sharing the History
of Our Movement
Peggy Chong, The Blind History Lady; Aurora, Colorado
Reports and Resolutions
Adjourn
Banquet (Sunday)
Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet Ballrooms
Zoom meeting ID: <https://zoom.us/j/96287762142>
https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
1CapApp: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb
Special thanks to our Elite convention sponsor, Kellogg Company.
7:30 p.m. Invocation
Master of Ceremonies: Pam Allen
Introductions and Presentations
Banquet Address: Mark Riccobono
Scholarship Awards
Convention Notes
Note 1: Information Desk
A Federation information desk is in the Acadia Ballroom foyer from Wednesday
morning through Sunday in case you have questions or need assistance.
Note 2: Hotel Room Rates
Room rates at both the Marriott and the Sheraton are: singles and doubles,
$109; triples and quads, $119. In addition, the combined sales tax and
tourism support rate is 16.2 percent, and there is a hotel occupancy fee of
$3.00 per night.
Proof of convention registration is necessary, including the showing of an
NFB registration badge, if requested. Otherwise, regular hotel rates must be
paid. Hotel sleeping rooms are non-smoking; smoking is permitted only in
specified areas.
Note 3: Banquet Tickets
Banquet tickets may be purchased for $75 at convention registration. No
tickets will be available after 2:00 p.m. on Friday. At the banquet ticket
exchange table, located in the Acadia Ballroom foyer, you may make
arrangements to reserve a specific seat for yourself or for a group of up to
ten people. On the evening of the banquet, tickets will be required to enter
the ballroom and will be collected at the tables. Tickets may be exchanged
for vegetarian, kosher, or halal meals at the banquet ticket exchange table
if done so by 2:00 p.m. on Thursday.
Banquet ticket exchange will be available at the following times (also
listed in the agenda):
* Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
* Friday 8:45 to 9:15 a.m. and noon to 1:45 p.m.
* Saturday 8:15 to 8:45 a.m. and noon to 1:45 p.m.
* Sunday 8:15 to 8:45 a.m. and noon to 1:45 p.m.
Note 4: Guide Dog Relief Areas
There is a guide dog relief area at both the Marriott and the Sheraton. At
the Marriott, the area is in the porte cochère. Exit the lobby doors by the
concierge desk and cross the valet parking lanes to the relief area.
At the Sheraton, the relief area is at the corner of the hotel property
along Canal Street. Exit the front doors of the hotel and turn right. Walk
to the corner of the building, continue across the Sheraton driveway
entrance, and find the iron-gated relief area immediately to your right.
Note 5: Announcement Requests
All requests for announcements by President Riccobono during General
Sessions must be submitted in Braille.
Note 6: NFB Treasurer Information
Individuals needing to conduct business with the NFB treasurer may do so by
going to the Galerie Registration Desk on Friday between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.
or on Saturday between noon and 2:00 p.m.
Note 7: CrowdCompass Platform
The convention agenda can be accessed via the CrowdCompass platform
beginning June 27. Mobile apps are available for both the iOS and Android
platforms ( <https://crowd.cc/s/4kq4c> https://crowd.cc/s/4kq4c). A web
portal is also available ( <https://crowd.cc/nfb22> https://crowd.cc/nfb22).
CrowdCompass allows users to customize a personal agenda, chat with other
CrowdCompass convention goers, and to join streamed sessions with the click
of a button for those participating virtually.
Note 8: Portrait Studio
The portrait studio wants and needs a photo of your gorgeous face! Because
it has been three years since we have been in person, everyone's photo is
out of date. We use images in the Braille Monitor, on websites, and for
other types of publication. Having a current photo on file is important even
if you are not writing an article or sitting on your chapter board. We will
email photos after convention to those who would like to have them. Please
visit the portrait studio outside the Acadia Ballroom during the following
hours:
* Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
* Friday 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
* Saturday 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
* Sunday 5:45 to 6:45 p.m.
Note 9: Raffle Tickets
Raffle tickets will not be sold in the registration area, and no raffles or
other such drawings will take place during convention sessions or at the
banquet. The single exception will be that national divisions may (if they
request it in advance) conduct drawings during the sessions or at the
banquet. Groups or affiliates wishing to conduct their drawings (or any
person wishing to know the winners) may go at noon on Sunday to Studio 10.
Note 10: FM Receivers Pick Up
The Amateur Radio Division coordinates the distribution of special FM
receivers for our hard of hearing and Spanish-speaking attendees. Any
interested attendee may pick up a receiver at a table in the back of the
Acadia ballroom. A deposit of $40 in cash is required, and exact change is
appreciated. The deposit will be returned if the receiver is brought back to
the checkout table in good condition by the end of the banquet or within
thirty minutes of adjournment of the last convention session the borrower
plans to attend. Batteries for the receiver will be provided.
Note 11: NFB Camp (Child Care)
NFB Camp for children between the ages of six weeks and twelve years is
available during convention sessions, most meetings, and the banquet.
Preregistration and payment by June 15 are required for this childcare
service. NFB Camp is organized and supervised by Carla McQuillan, the
executive director of Main Street Montessori Association. Please note that
childcare services provides morning and afternoon snacks, but parents are
required to provide lunch for their child(ren) every day. Times listed are
the opening and closing times. A late fee of $10 per quarter-hour per child
will be assessed for late pickups. NFB Camp hours are:
* Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Wednesday Closed
* Thursday 8:30 a.m. to noon and 12:45 to 5:30 p.m.
* Friday 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
* Banquet 6:30 p.m. to 30 minutes after the banquet ends
Note 12: Zoom and Ways to Access
For sessions on Zoom, there are multiple options for access.
Zoom via web: <https://zoom.us/j/96287762142> https://zoom.us/j/96287762142
Zoom One Tap Mobile: US: +13017158592,,96287762142# or
+13126266799,,96287762142#
Zoom via phone by location:
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
Zoom Meeting ID: 962 8776 2142
Closed captions will be provided on the Zoom platform, and you may also
access the closed captions/transcript through 1CapApp at
<https://ecs.1capapp.com/event/nfb> https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb. More
details for streaming available at <https://nfb.org/convention>
nfb.org/convention.
Note 13: Divisions
Divisions, Committees, and Groups: The Federation carries on its business
through the affiliated divisions, committees, and groups listed in this
agenda.
Divisions:
Divisions of the National Federation of the Blind are organized around a
specialized interest area usually related to employment or a major stage in
life (e.g., parents or students). Divisions serve as a formal vehicle for
building the organization at the national level.
Amateur Radio: Corbb O’Connor, President
Assistive Technology Trainers: Chancey Fleet, President
Communities of Faith: Tom Anderson, President
Computer Science: Brian Buhrow, President
Community Service: Jeanetta Price, President
DeafBlind: Alice Eaddy, President
Diabetes Action Network: Debbie Wunder, President
Human Services: Candice Chapman, President
Educators: Cayte Mendez, President
Guide Dog Users: Raul Gallegos, President
Krafters: Tammy Freitag, President
Lawyers: Scott LaBarre, President
Merchants: Nicky Gacos, President
Parents of Blind Children: Carlton Anne Cook Walker, President
Performing Arts: Katelyn MacIntyre, President
Professionals in Blindness Education: Emily Gibbs, President
Rehabilitation Professionals: Amy Porterfield, President
Science and Engineering: John Miller, President
Seniors: Judy Sanders, President
Sports and Recreation: Jessica Beecham, President
Students: Trisha Kulkarni, President
Veterans: Vernon Humphrey, President
Writers: Shelley Alongi, President
Committees:
Committees of the National Federation of the Blind are appointed by the
President, with the exception of the nominating committee, and serve to
advise the organization’s leadership on important matters and to carry out
projects to build the organization at all levels.
Advancement and Promotion of Braille: Jennifer Dunnam, Chair
Ambassadors: Dan Burke, Chair
Blind Educator of the Year Award: Robin House, Chair
Blind Government Employment: Ronza Othman and Everette Bacon, Co-chairs
Code of Conduct Feedback Committee: Ronza Othman, Chair
Communications: Liz Wisecarver, Chair
Distinguished Educator of Blind Children Award: Carla McQuillan, Chair
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Shawn Callaway and Colin Wong, Co-chairs
Employment: Dick Davis, Chair
Evaluation of Technology: Mark Jones, Chair
Jacobus tenBroek Award: Pam Allen, Chair
Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund: Kathryn Webster, Chair
Kenneth Jernigan Fund: Tracy Soforenko, Chair
Membership: Denise Avant and Tarik Williams, Co-chairs
PAC Plan: Scott LaBarre and Ryan Strunk, Co-chairs
Resolutions: Sharon Maneki, Chair
Scholarship: Cayte Mendez, Chair
Spanish Translation: Daniel Martinez, Chair
White Cane and Affiliate Finance: Everette Bacon, Chair
Groups:
Groups of the National Federation of the Blind serve as a resource to
members around specific topic areas. Groups are coordinated by a chairperson
appointed by the President and are intended to connect members across the
country to strengthen the resource network of the organization.
Blind Fraternal Greek and Masonic: Shawn Callaway, Chair
Blind Muslims: Tasnim Alshuli, Chair
Blind Parents: Lisamaria Martinez, Chair
Blind Professional Journalists: Elizabeth Campbell, Chair
Blind Survivors: Kathryn Webster and Danielle Montour, Co-chairs
NFB in Judaism: Stewart Prost, Chair
NFB in the Kitchen: Regina Mitchell, Chair
NFB LGBT: Sanho Steele-Louchart, Chair
NFB Lions: Milton Ota, Chair
NFB Webmasters: Corbb O’Connor, Chair
Navigating the Hotel
New Orleans Marriott
New Orleans is a city rich with traditions and celebrations. Honoring that
tradition, let's approach the layout of the New Orleans Marriott by
imagining a birthday celebration for a two-year-old. We're going to present
this young birthday celebrant with a square four-layer cake with two
candles. Since this cake is imaginary, you can make it any flavor and choose
your favorite frosting. Rather than placing the candles in the middle of the
cake, we'll place them near the two front corners of our cake. And don't
sneak a taste of the frosting! You can celebrate when we're done with our
tour of the hotel.
Now let's put our analogy to work. The Marriott takes up an entire square
city block on the edge of the French Quarter, New Orleans' oldest
neighborhood. Picture the hotel as our layer cake, with each square layer
placed directly on top of those below it. There are two towers of sleeping
rooms. The birthday candle on the left rises twenty-one floors and is called
the Quarter Tower, named for the French Quarter. The birthday candle on the
right is known as the River Tower, given the hotel's proximity to the mighty
Mississippi River. It contains forty-one floors. The lobby takes up much of
the first layer of the cake. The second, third, and fourth layers are filled
with meeting space. The roof of the fourth floor is, figuratively speaking,
the icing on the cake in more ways than one—on the fifth floor between the
two birthday candles are the hotel's two rooftop swimming pools.
The Marriott's main entrance is on Canal Street, roughly in the center of
the hotel. Stepping through the two sets of doors, you will walk up several
steps to find yourself in the hotel's bustling lobby. Turn to the right and
you will immediately find the line for the front desk on your right, running
along the Canal Street wall. Unless you arrive late at night, you can expect
this to be a busy and crowded area. Working your way through the crowd, as
you approach the end of the reservation desk, you will find the River Tower
escalators to your left positioned perpendicularly to the registration desk.
These escalators run to the second and third floors of the meeting space.
Also on your left, just beyond the escalators is the FedEx business office,
a helpful place to go if your chapter or affiliate has shipped something to
the hotel. Past the registration desk and the business office, you will
enter the River Tower elevator lobby. In this elevator lobby, you will find
seven elevators labeled A through G in a clockwise pattern. Elevators A, B,
and C are on your left, elevator D is on the wall in front of you, and
elevators E, F, and G are on the right. These elevators stop at all meeting
room levels, the fifth floor for the pool and the fitness center, and the
River Tower sleeping rooms. There is more to say about the elevators at the
hotel, but we will save that for the end of the tour.
Let’s return to the top of the front door steps where we began. If we
continue walking straight, heading across the lobby, we pass on our left the
bellstand and the concierge counter. On the right is a large lobby bar
called 55 Fahrenheit. The bar itself is far to the right, backed up against
the River Tower escalators. The majority of the space between you and the
bar is filled with a variety of tables and comfortable seating clusters.
Continuing our walk across the lobby brings you to the entrance of 5Fifty5,
the hotel's main restaurant. Just to the right is the entrance to the M Club
for qualified Marriott Bonvoy members. To your left is a large revolving
door that exits to the porte cochère and parking garage. Wheelchair users
will want to use this entrance and exit as there are also ADA
paddle-operated doors at this location. Some of you arriving via airport
transportation may enter the hotel through these doors. If instead we turn
to the right at the 5Fifty5 entrance, walking with the side of 55 Fahrenheit
on our right, we will reach the Canal Street Pantry. The Pantry, in the far
right corner of our first layer, offers prepackaged foods, fresh fruit,
salads, made-to-order pizzas and sandwiches as well as a selection of beer,
wine, and liquor.
Now let’s return once more to the top of the stairs where we first entered
the lobby. If we were instead to turn left, we would find ourselves headed
towards the Quarter Tower escalators that run parallel to Canal Street.
These serve the second and third floors of the meeting space. To the right
of the escalators is the Quarter Tower elevator lobby. All passenger
elevators—H, I, J, and K—are on the right side of the lobby. On the left are
two service elevators. These elevators stop at all floors except the fourth
floor. On the wall in between the Quarter Tower escalators and elevators is
an ATM.
Let’s take the Quarter Tower escalators to the second floor. There are two
meeting room clusters on the second floor: the Preservation Hall Studio
breakouts are on the Quarter Tower side while the Galerie meeting rooms are
closer to the River Tower side.
As we step off the escalators on the second floor and turn to our right,
with Canal Street now at our backs, we are facing Preservation Hall with its
collection of breakout meeting rooms. As we approach the Preservation Hall
entrance, the Quarter Tower elevators are on our right. There are also
restrooms, men’s to the left and women’s to the right, just before we enter
the Studios foyer. The meeting rooms vary in size and are arranged in a
horseshoe. Down the left side are Studios 1 through 5, Studio 6 is at the
very back, and Studios 7 through 10 work their way back to the foyer
entrance on the right side.
The other second floor meeting room cluster hosts Galerie 1 through Galerie
6. If we were to have made a U-turn at the top of the escalator, we would be
heading back towards the River Tower elevators with Canal Street on our
right. On the left is Galerie 1. Further down the corridor is Galerie 4.
Galerie 2 and 3 are stacked behind Galerie 1 while Galerie 5 and 6 are
stacked behind Galerie 4. Turning left around the corner of Galerie 4 will
take us down a hallway with entrances to Galeries 4, 5, and 6 on our left.
On the right we will pass the River Tower elevators and the River Tower
escalators. Further down this corridor on the right is another set of
restrooms and the Galerie registration desk.
You may have noticed that I did not talk about the entrances to Galeries 2
and 3. This is a bit tricky. You will remember when we first arrived on the
second floor, we passed the Quarter Tower elevators. Stepping through the
elevator lobby you will find a narrow hallway extending to the left away
from Canal Street. Down this hallway on the right are entrances to Galeries
1, 2, and 3.
Let’s go back to the Quarter Tower escalators and take them up one more
level to the third layer of our birthday cake. As with the second floor
level, the third floor has two meeting clusters. The large ballrooms that
will house our largest sessions, collectively called the Grand
Ballroom—Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet—are on the Quarter Tower side
while Salons A through H are on the River Tower side.
And as with the second floor, turning to our right off the escalators, with
Canal Street at our back, we stand in the Grand Ballroom foyer facing the
doors to the Acadia ballroom. Beyond Acadia is Bissonnet and further yet is
Carondelet.
Again, as with the second floor, if we were to have made a U-turn at the top
of the Quarter Tower escalators, we would be heading back towards the River
Tower elevators. With Canal Street on our right, we will pass the entrance
to a hallway that runs perpendicular to Canal Street and between the
ballrooms and the salons. Down this hallway are entrances to the ballrooms
on the left and entrances to Salons D, E, and H on the right. Continuing
along the Canal Street wall, we pass entrances to Salons A, B, and C.
Turning left at the end of the corridor and heading towards the back side of
our layer cake, the River Tower elevators and escalators are on the right
while entrances to salons D, E, and F are on the left. The third floor
restrooms are just past the escalators.
There is still one more layer to our cake. There are only a small number of
meeting rooms on the fourth floor, and many of you will not have need to
visit them. The primary means of access to the meeting rooms is the River
Tower elevators. As you step out of the River Tower elevator lobby on the
fourth floor, the Canal Street hallway serving Balcony rooms I, J, and K is
just off to the left. Turning right out of the elevator lobby, we pass four
meeting rooms on the right: Bonaparte, Regent, Bacchus, and Iberville. At
the end of the corridor on the left is a hallway parallel to Canal Street,
containing entrances to Balcony L, M, and N. Pro tip: there are two small
set of stairs across from Bonaparte and Iberville that run between the third
and fourth floors.
As you now know, the fifth floor is our frosting. The elevator lobbies in
either tower provide direct access to the pool deck, which sits between our
two birthday candles. There are four meeting rooms on the fifth floor
accessible from the River Tower elevators. Turn right when exiting the
elevator lobby and walk down the hallway. On the right are four small
meeting rooms: Audubon, Beauregard, Galvez, and Jackson. On the left are
sleeping rooms, and at the far end of the hallway is the health club.
There is one more small meeting cluster on the 41st floor of the River
Tower. Here you will find Napoleon, Lafayette, Saint Charles, Riverview 1,
and Riverview 2.
You may now enjoy a slice of imaginary cake. Mine is yellow cake with
chocolate frosting.
Operating the Elevators
You now have the layout of the New Orleans Marriott birthday cake. I did
promise more information about the elevators. Both the Marriott and the
Sheraton have installed smart elevators. This means that you will find no
floor buttons on the inside of the elevator cabs. That's correct. Just "Open
Door" and "Alarm" buttons. In the elevator lobby, hotel guests punch their
desired floor number into a keypad, and the software running the elevator
system determines the most efficient elevator to take. Here’s how it works.
On each side of the elevator lobbies is a keypad much like that of a
touchtone phone—the traditional three by four keypad with 123 across the top
followed by 456, 789, and the fourth row with a zero in the middle. There is
a fifth row containing one wide button for accessibility mode. Pressing the
accessibility button before keying in your destination floor number will
cause the keypad to speak your floor and the elevator letter you should
take. When your elevator arrives, the elevator will announce its arrival by
letter. When your elevator arrives at your destination floor, the elevator
will also announce the floor.
If all goes smoothly, this process should be accessible to our attendees.
However, matters will be further complicated when there are several dozen
Federationists in an elevator lobby chatting about what they have been doing
for the last three years. When possible, Ambassador Committee members and/or
volunteers will be stationed in the lower elevator lobbies. Bear in mind
that this process will require practice and, more importantly, patience.
New Orleans Marriott Meeting Room Locations
* Balcony I-N, Bonaparte, Regent, Bacchus, and Iberville meeting rooms
– 4th floor (access only from River Tower elevators or double set of stairs
on River Tower side of 3rd and 4th floors.
* Galerie meeting rooms (Galerie 1-6) – 2nd floor River Tower side
* Grand Ballroom (Acadia, Bissonet, and Carondelet) – 3rd floor
Quarter Tower side
* Preservation Hall breakout rooms (Studios 1-10) – 2nd floor Quarter
Tower side
* Salon meeting rooms (A-H) – 3rd floor River Tower side
The Sheraton New Orleans
Walking through the front doors of the Sheraton New Orleans from Canal
Street, you find yourself in a large, bright two-story atrium. Almost
immediately to your right is the main attraction for many, a Starbucks
coffee shop. To your left, a few steps below the lobby level, is the
expansive Pelican Bar. As you continue further forward into the hotel, you
will pass on your right a set of escalators connecting the second floor.
Beyond the Pelican Bar and the escalators, you arrive at an intersection of
sorts. If you were to turn right, you would find the FedEx business center
on the right. If you were to continue straight ahead, the Sheraton’s two
elevator lobbies are on the right. And finally, turning left leads you into
a wide registration area with a long registration desk on your right,
running parallel to Canal Street. Beyond the registration desk are the doors
to the Sheraton’s motor lobby. Those of you arriving to the hotel from the
airport may be dropped off at this entrance, making the registration desk
readily accessible. The bellstand is also conveniently located between the
registration desk and the doors to the motor lobby.
In the Sheraton, the meeting space is primarily on floors two through five.
Floors six and seven contain only administrative offices for the hotel. The
eighth floor contains a modest number of meeting rooms but, more
importantly, is also home to the fitness center and the swimming pool.
Let’s return to the lobby escalators and take them up to the second floor.
Stepping off the escalators, you arrive at an intersection similar to the
downstairs lobby. Turn to the right and head towards the escalators that
serve meeting rooms on floors two through five. If you were to continue
straight ahead, the Sheraton's two elevator lobbies are again on the right.
Immediately to the left is the entrance to Roux Bistro, the Sheraton's
Creole restaurant with tables along two sides of the hotel, overlooking the
lobby below.
I mentioned that there are two elevator lobbies. One set of elevators serves
the low sleeping room floors and the other serves the higher floors. All
elevators stop at the lobby and all meeting levels. The first elevator
lobby, the one closest to the Canal Street entrance, contains the elevators
that take guests to floors one through twenty-nine. The second set of
elevators serves floors one through eight and twenty-nine through
forty-nine. You'll note that the twenty-ninth floor is a common floor where
guests can switch between lower and higher floors without traveling all the
way down to the lobby. The Sheraton uses the same smart elevator system as
described in the above section.
The NFB’s Exhibit Hall and Independence Market are in the Napoleon Ballroom
throughout the week. The Napoleon Ballroom is on the third floor. Its
entrance is just a few short steps from both elevator lobbies and only a few
steps further from the meeting room escalators.
The National Federation of the Blind acknowledges with gratitude our
convention sponsors listed below. Their messages follow.
Elite:
Kellogg Company
Platinum:
eSSENTIAL Accessibility
Google
Horizon Therapeutics
Meta
Microsoft
UPS Foundation
Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Vispero
Wells Fargo
Gold:
Amazon
Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP
Oracle
Target
Waymo
Silver:
Aira Tech Corp
APH ConnectCenter
AT&T
Cruise
HumanWare
iSenpai
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Market Development Group
Pearson
Bronze:
American Printing House for the Blind
Chris Park Design
Charter Communications
Educational Testing Service
Election Systems & Software
McDonald’s Corporation
Tusk Philanthropies
VitalSource Technologies
White Cane:
The Chicago Lighthouse
Clusiv
D2L Corporation
Democracy Live
Duxbury Systems, Inc.
En-Vision America
Envision, Inc.
GoodMaps, Inc.
HIMS, Inc.
IKE Smart City, LLC
Independence Science Tactile Engineering
Leader Dogs for the Blind
McGraw Hill
National Industries for the Blind
Personal.ai
Rosen, Bien, Galvan & Grunfeld, LLP
Sponsor Ads
Elite
Kellogg’s – Better Days
Creating Better Day for 3 billion people by the end of 2030
* Nourish People With Our Foods
* Feed People in Need
* Nurture People and Our Planet
* Live Our Founder’s Values
Photo description: Image of Kellogg Company volunteers packing food
donations
Follow or join the conversation using #BetterDays. For more information,
please visit kelloggs.com/betterdays <http://www.kelloggs.com/betterdays> .
Platinum
eSSENTIAL Accessbility
At eSSENTIAL Accessibility, we’ve spent 14 years working to ensure equal
access to online information. Our purpose is to help organizations design
and develop digital experiences that are accessible to all.
We’re proud of the contributions we’ve made toward a more inclusive web, and
we’re honored to support the 2022 Convention of the National Federation of
the Blind.
Together, we will continue creating a future full of opportunity.
<http://www.essentialaccessibility.com/>
http://www.essentialaccessibility.com/
Horizon Therapeutics – Going to incredible lengths
Horizon is proud to support the National Foundation of the Blind. Horizon is
focused on researching, developing and commercializing medicines that
address critical needs for people impacted by rare, autoimmune and severe
inflammatory diseases. Our pipeline is purposeful: we apply scientific
expertise and courage to bring clinically meaningful therapies to patients.
At Horizon, we believe science and compassion must work together to
transform lives. https://www.horizontherapeutics.com/
Meta
Proud to support the 2022 National Federation of the Blind Convention.
https://about.facebook.com/
Microsoft - Empowerment
Microsoft is a proud sponsor of the 2022 National Federation of the Blind
Convention. Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every
organization on the planet to achieve more. This includes creating and
delivering technology that is accessible and functional for everyone.
https://www.microsoft.com/accessibility
Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Vanda Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to raising awareness of Non-24-Hour
Sleep-Wake Disorder (Non-24) and supporting the blindness community. Non-24
is a rare circadian rhythm disorder affecting up to 70% of people who are
totally blind. People living with Non-24 experience excessive daytime
sleepiness and nighttime sleeplessness, which leads to impaired social and
occupational functioning. This is due to the misalignment between the
internal master body clock and the 24-hour day.
Come visit us at our booth to learn about non-24 and sign up for additional
information. Call a health educator toll-free at 1-855-856-2424. 24 hours a
day, every day. Visit us online at www.non-24.com <http://www.non-24.com/> .
Vispero
Vispero is a proud sponsor of the National Federation of the Blind. Learn
more about our innovative technology for the blindness and low vision, and
the passionate team behind it at vispero.com!
We’re excited to see you again—in person! Please visit us in the exhibit
hall and during our presentation—we have many convention specials and a free
gift just for visiting us!
What’s New with JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText – Tuesday, July 5, 8:30 AM –
11:30 AM. Join Eric Damery for his annual User Group meeting. All skill
levels are welcome. We’ll demonstrate and discuss the recent developments
and look at what’s coming in 2023. Bring your questions and join the fun as
we kick off the 2022 Convention with the JAWS teams from Training, Sales,
and Marketing.
https://www.vispero.com <https://www.vispero.com/>
Wells Fargo
Together, there are no limits to what we can do. At Wells Fargo, we value
the unique capabilities and contributions of each of our employees and
appreciate the strength that diversity brings to our organization. Working
here, you’ll find an inclusive environment for everyone, including employees
with medical restrictions or disabilities. We’re dedicated to providing all
of our employees with the opportunity to be successful in their Wells Fargo
careers. Our dedicated workplace accommodations team – a group of
multi-disciplinary professionals who have expertise in occupational health
and psychiatric nursing, vocational rehabilitation, behavioral/mental
health, ergonomics, disability management, human resources, employee
relations, benefits and leave administration - works to provide successful
solutions and reasonable accommodations, helping employees with disabilities
or medical restrictions to successfully perform their jobs.
Wells Fargo is a proud sponsor of the National Federation of the Blind
Convention.
What other people are saying about us:
* DiversityInc magazine has ranked Wells Fargo No.2 on the list of the
2022 Top Companies for People with Disabilities. DiversityInc also ranked
Wells Fargo No. 29 on the Top Companies for Diversity, and No. 1 Top
Companies for LGBTQ.
* For the eleventh consecutive year, readers of CAREERS & the
disaABLED magazine recognized Wells Fargo as one of 2022’s Top 50 Employers
of people with disabilities.
Accommodations and accessibility assistance for team members and job
seekers:
* Visit wellsfargojobs.com <http://www.wellsfargojobs.com/> to apply
or for more information.
* Learn more at: wellsfargojobs.com/accessibility
<http://www.wellsfargojobs.com/accessibility> and
wellsfargo.com/about/diversity/accessibility
<http://www.wellsfargo.com/about/diversity/accessibility>
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without
regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. ©2022 Wells
Fargo N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC.
Gold
Amazon
Visit the NFB Convention Exhibit Hall to learn more about Fire TVs, Fire
tablets, Kindle, and Echo Devices. Amazon supports accessible experiences
for shopping, reading, and entertainment. Learn more at
www.amazon.com/accessibility <http://www.amazon.com/accessibility> .
Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP
We’re proud to support the NFB’s commitment to advancing the rights of blind
individuals across the country. Let us tell your story. Baltimore, MD 410-
962-1030. Washington, DC 202-742-5969.
https://browngold.com/
Target for all
Target’s purpose is to help all families discover the joy of everyday life.
Whether in our store or shopping online, we believe every blind person has
the right to an equal experience. Our team of accessibility experts work
every day to make that happen. Learn more about our accessibility efforts:
target.com/accessibility <http://www.target.com/accessibility>
We welcome your feedback, thoughts, and suggestions. Email the Accessibility
team: accessibility at target.com <mailto:accessibility at target.com>
Here are two new ways you can access all Target has to offer:
* Explore same day services allowing you to customize how you shop all
of our products in the manner best fitting your lifestyle. Learn more at
http://bit.ly/tgt-same-day
* Aira service is available for free to assist you in all Target
stores nationwide and while shopping online at Target.com. Learn more:
aira.io/target
Are you curious to hear more about Target's digital accessibility? Have
questions about our apps, website, or stores? Stop by our open session
listed in the agenda to share feedback, ask questions, and meet some of our
experienced accessibility consultants.
Waymo
Waymo is proud to support the National Federation of the Blind. Together,
we’re paving the way to a better future. www.waymo.com
<http://www.waymo.com/> .
Silver
Aira – Visual Information On Demand
Aira is proud to continue our partnership with the National Federation of
the Blind. New to Aira? Download our app and try visual interpreting while
visiting Starbucks in the New Orleans Marriott. www.aira.io
<file://wn-fs1/!SShaffer/Convention/2022%20New%20Orleans/Agenda/Sponsor%20Ad
s/www.aira.io>
APH ConnectCenter
Connecting the vision loss community to a world of resources. The APH
ConnectCenter offers FREE curated advice and resources to assist children,
parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind and low vision, and their
associated professionals.
* APH Information & Referral Hotline: free information, assistance,
and resources.
* FamilyConnect: for families of children who are blind or low vision.
* CareerConnect: for job seekers with vision loss or blindness.
* VisionAware: for adults and seniors who are living with vision loss.
* ConnectCalendar: for use by the entire blindness field to find and
promote events.
* APH ConnectCenter Transition Hub: information about transition
programs that emphasize empowerment, career exploration, and work
experiences for teens and young adults who are blind and low vision.
800-232-5463 - connectcenter at aph.org <mailto:connectcenter at aph.org> -
aphconnectcenter.org <http://www.aphconnectcenter.org/> - familyconnect.org
<http://www.familyconnect.org/> - aphcareerconnect.org
<http://www.aphcareerconnect.org/> - visionaware.org
<http://www.visionaware.org/>
Cruise
Building the world’s most advanced autonomous vehicles. Proud Sponsors of
the 2022 Blind Driver Challenge. GetCruise.com <http://www.getcruise.com/> .
HumanWare – See things. Differently.
Our Brailliant (TM) BI X series of Braille displays help students and
professionals who are blind to stay connected, take notes, send text
messages, and listen to and download books from online libraries. With the
new text-to-speech feature and built-in mobile options this is the
Brailliant idea all users are looking for.
Up to 10% savings on selected HumanWare products during the convention!
Visit HumanWare’s exhibit to learn more! 1-800-722-3393 | humanware.com
<http://www.humanware.com/> .
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Commitment to Access and Inclusion. At JPMorgan Chase we want to help
empower people with disabilities to grow their careers, develop job skills,
reenter the workforce and gain expanded access to well-paying careers.
We proudly support the National Federation of the Blind for its developing
innovative education, technology and training programs and legislative
advocacy that create pathways to independence and success for their
constituents. jpmorganchase.com/odi <http://www.jpmorganchase.com/odi>
Market Development Group
Best Wishes to the National Federation of the Blind for a successful 2022
National Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Market Development Group, Inc. A full-service marketing company. John
Alahouzos, Executive Vice President. 1834 Connecticut Avenue, NW |
Washington, DC 20009 | USA. 202-298-8030 | www.mdginc.org
<http://www.mdginc.org/> .
Pearson
Pearson, the world’s leading learning company, is proud to be a sponsor of
the National Federation of the Blind’s 2022 National Convention. Pearson is
committed to making education accessible for all. Please visit
https://accessibility.pearson.com/research/2022studies/ for information on
participating in our 2022 research studies.
Bronze
American Printing House for The Blind
An Accessible World with Opportunity for Everyone. APH’s vision to create an
accessible world with opportunity for everyone, guides us in our efforts to
innovate technology solutions that enable people who are blind and low
vision to conquer their challenges and pursue their dreams. Visit the APH
booth to check out our newest innovations and the classic products you know
and love.
Spectrum
The broader our perspective, the more we can accomplish. Spectrum is proud
to support the 2022 NFB National Convention.
Tusk Philanthropies – Mobile Voting
* Our mission is to expand voting options to include secure,
accessible mobile voting so any voter, regardless of ability, can vote from
anywhere.
* Electronic remote ballot delivery and return options are needed so
voters with disabilities can vote independently and privately from home.
* We continue to stand with the National Federation of the Blind to
expand voting options.
Learn more at mobilevoting.org <http://www.mobilevoting.org/>
VitalSource
Designed with all learners in mind. http://get.vitalsource.com/.
White Cane
The Chicago Lighthouse
Looking to find a job? WE CAN HELP! Offering workforce training, placement
and assistive technology guidance for people who are blind, have low vision
or other disabilities, or are Veterans.
Employment Services: Martha Younger-White 312-447-3251 |
employmentservices at chicagolighthouse.org
<mailto:employmentservices at chicagolighthouse.org>
Assistive Technology: Patrick Andrade 312-997-3649 |
store at chicagolighthouse.org <mailto:store at chicagolighthouse.org>
Now Hiring: chicagolighthouse.org/careers
<http://www.chicagolighthouse.org/careers>
Clusiv
Clusiv is the world's first accessible e-learning platform built for & by
blind and visually impaired people. We solve the global problem of blind
inclusion in the workforce, higher education, and society as a whole by
empowering the blind learner through accessible education and up-skilling.
Our content creators use our experience to provide a space for you to learn
from other blind individuals. You will learn what pitfalls to avoid, as well
as tips and tricks to make work and school life easier and more efficient.
In doing so, you will perform at your best and have more time outside of
work to do what you love.
We can work with your state’s Vocational Rehabilitation or Blind Commission
to get you access to all of our content. In the meantime, you can check out
a sample lesson by visiting <http://www.clusiv.io/> www.clusiv.io. We look
forward to answering your questions both virtually, in the exhibit hall, or
in-person throughout the convention.
D2L Corporation
D2L – Where Learning is Inclusive. D2L’s accessible learning platform
empowers everyone to participate in and contribute to the teaching and
learning experience intuitively. Find out more at D2L.com/corporate
<http://www.d2l.com/corporate> .
Democracy Live - Accessible Voting Technologies. Anytime. Anywhere.
In too many states, voters with disabilities don’t have equal access to
voting independently and privately from home. Fortunately, there are new
accessible at-home voting technologies now available.
The Democracy Live OmniBallot accessible at-home voting system is a fully
ADA Section 508, WCAG 2.1 compliant remote ballot marking solution. The
system has been tested to meet the accessibility requirements of over 90
combinations of browsers, operating systems, screen readers and devices.
OmniBallot has been deployed as an accessible absentee tool since 2008, in
over 4,000 elections, serving 3,000 jurisdictions, in 27 states and 96
countries around the world. OmniBallot has been tested and reviewed by
members of most every leading disability organization in the nation.
For further information, please contact Democracy Live: 855-655-VOTE (8683)
Toll Free | Email: info at democracylive.com <mailto:info at democracylive.com> |
www.democracylive.com <http://www.democracylive.com/> .
En-Vision America
Visit our booth! Accessible prescriptions anywhere & everywhere.
www.envisionamerica.com <http://www.envisionamerica.com/> .
HIMS, Inc.
Please stop what you are doing right now. We need your attention in this
time-sensitive matter. If you are at the NFB National Convention, go
immediately to the HIMS booth to secure the lowest price on the BrailleSense
6 and BrailleSense 6 mini notetakers. These prices are the lowest they will
be this year. Guaranteed.
Leader Dogs for the Blind
Did you know Leader Dogs for the Blind also offers FREE O&M training? Visit
us: leaderdog.org/programs <http://www.leaderdog.org/programs> for more
details.
McGraw Hill
McGraw Hill Unlocks the Potential for All Learners. McGraw Hill believes
that the best learning materials should be accessible to students of all
abilities. We are building an inclusive culture that considers the needs of
every learner from the outset and we are making every effort to ensure that
all new educational content and technology follows the WCAG AA guidelines
and best practices.
To learn more about the McGraw Hill commitment to Accessible Learning visit
mheducation.com/about/accessibility
<http://www.mheducation.com/about/accessibility> .
National Industries for the Blind
National Industries for the Blind is proud to partner with the National
Federation of the Blind to advance the interests of people who are blind.
Learn more at NIB.org <http://www.nib.org/> .
Personal.ai
Bringing the creative potential of AI to everyone. A personal AI is a true
digital extension and reflection of you and your memories. Imagine a world
where everyone has their own personal AI they can tap into to amplify their
knowledge and creativity. Imagine being able to share your AI with others to
unlock new ways to collaborate and exchange view and ideas with each other.
That day is here.
Want to create your own personal AI? Go to personal.ai
<http://www.personal.ai/> to get started and visit our seminar on July 9
for inspiration!
Rosen, Bien, Galvan & Grunfeld, LLP – Trial and Appellate Advocates
RBGG is proud to support the National Federation of the Blind so that blind
people may live the lives they want. Advancing justice and solving problems
on behalf of individuals and businesses for over 30 years. rbgg.com
<http://www.rbgg.com/>
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