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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#467886" vlink="#96607D" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Ohio,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Please extend your congratulations to our own Kinshuk Tella for being accepted into the 2025-2026 Kenneth Jernigan Leadership-in-Service Program.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>For those who would like to apply for the program in the future, here are the details, eligibility and requirements below.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Again, congratulation to you, Kinchuk. We know you will do well in the program.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Suzanne<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>///<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Kenneth Jernigan Leadership-In-Service Program<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Are you passionate about empowering the blind community? The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) invites you to apply for the next cohort of our Kenneth Jernigan Leadership-In-Service Program (KJLSP).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Prepare to embark on a transformative journey that will shape you into a powerful advocate for blind individuals, foster your personal growth, while continuing to assist in the development of a program to build future leaders and a stronger community. Make a difference and lead with conviction.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Deadline to apply is Sunday, July 20, 2025.</span></b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Program Highlights<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Over the course of one year, you will experience a comprehensive training curriculum that blends in-person and virtual learning to provide a holistic leadership development experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>In-Person Training Intensives<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Engage in immersive in-person training sessions led by seasoned leaders in the blind community. These intensive workshops will equip you with practical skills, knowledge, and strategies to effectively advocate for the rights and needs of blind individuals.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Learning Modules<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Access a diverse range of virtual modules designed to enhance your leadership capabilities, with a particular focus on leveraging technology for advocacy, communication, and community building. Explore topics such as public speaking, strategic planning, coalition building, and more.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Mentorship and Networking<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Benefit from mentorship opportunities with experienced leaders from the National Federation of the Blind, who will provide guidance, support, and insights throughout your journey. Additionally, you will have the chance to connect with fellow program participants, building a network of like-minded individuals passionate about the blind community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Real-World Projects<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Apply your newfound skills through hands-on leadership experiences within the National Federation of the Blind. Contribute to ongoing initiatives, collaborate with existing leaders, and make a tangible impact on the lives of blind individuals.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Personal Growth and Empowerment<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Our program places great emphasis on personal growth, fostering self-confidence, resilience, and effective communication skills. Develop a strong sense of empowerment and self-advocacy that will serve you in all aspects of your life.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>2025-2026 Schedule<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>August 4, 2025<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Class for 2025-2026 finalized <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>September 18-21, 2025<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>In-Person Session: Leadership<br>Leadership Seminar Experience: Thursday, September 18 through Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the NFB Jernigan Institute in Baltimore, Maryland.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>October 2025<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>November 2025<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>December 2025<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>January 24-29, 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>In-Person Session: Advocacy and Leadership <br>NFB Leadership Event: Saturday, January 24 through Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the NFB Jernigan Institute in Baltimore, Maryland. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Washington Seminar 2026: Monday, January 26 through Thursday, January29, 2026, at the Holiday Inn Washington Capitol – National Mall (550 C Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>February 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>March 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>April 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>May 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>June 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>July 3-8, 2026 <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>In-Person Session: NFB National Convention<br>NFB26: Friday, July 3 through Wednesday, July 8, 2026, in Austin, Texas. Note: these are the convention dates and do not take into account travel days.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>August 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Virtual Session<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Eligibility and How to Apply<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>This is a unique and intense leadership training opportunity specifically tailored for blind people who aspire to become leaders within the organized blind movement. Interested individuals should meet the following criteria:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Have a fundamental understanding of the National Federation of the Blind<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Have attended at least one national convention<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Have attended one or more state affiliate conventions<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Ideally serve, or have served, in an elected position in a chapter, affiliate, or division<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Commit to participate in three in-person sessions (travel and lodging provided)<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Commit to participate in nine monthly virtual sessions (computer and internet access required)<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Complete assignments between sessions and provide feedback through surveys<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>In order to apply, interested individuals should<o:p></o:p></span></p><ol style='margin-top:0in' start=1 type=1><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><a href="https://nfb.org/programs-services/kenneth-jernigan-leadership-service-program/candidate-intention-form">Complete the Candidate Intention Form</a> which collects data about those planning to apply for the program. This form is only the first step in making the commitment to the program. <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Candidates must then take the initiative to contact and secure the support of two NFB affiliate presidents who agree to serve as your sponsor/mentor for the program. Potential sponsors may wish to interview you so please allow time for that. <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>You should provide your potential sponsor with a written essay or audio/video recording explaining the merits of your participation and your leadership goals. You may wish to share with them the confirmation that you completed the Candidate Intention Form, so they know you are serious about the program.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Confirm that you have secured the support of two sponsors. <o:p></o:p></span></li></ol></div></body></html>