2026 Session Abstracts

Sam Seavey
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the assistive technology landscape faster than ever before. From smart glasses to intelligent apps, AI is changing how people with vision loss access information, navigate the world, and connect with others. In this presentation, Sam Seavey, creator of The Blind Life Youtube channel, will explore the current wave of AI-powered assistive devices, including an in-depth look at the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, and discuss what this new era of technology means for independence and accessibility.

John Crews, O.D.
Join Dr. Crews, an experienced eye care and low vision specialist, for an informative discussion on vision health, common eye conditions, and adaptive technologies that support individuals with visual impairments. Drawing on his collaboration with the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired, Dr. Crews will share practical insights on clinical care, rehabilitation, and strategies for promoting functional vision in everyday life.

This session will explore key topics such as common vision changes, the use of magnifiers and optical systems, bioptic driving evaluations, and post-surgical considerations. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how eye care professionals, educators, and service providers can work together to enhance outcomes for individuals with moderate to severe vision loss.

Bring your questions to this engaging, conversational session with Dr. Crews.

Jimmy Morris
This presentation explores the use of Socratic Questions and Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques within the field of blindness rehabilitation. Participants will learn how these communication strategies can empower clients to better understand their situations and foster meaningful changes in their thinking and behavior. By guiding clients through a structured sequence of questions, professionals can help uncover motivations, reduce ambivalence, and support clients in setting achievable goals. The presentation emphasizes the importance of client-centered dialogue, building trust, and promoting self-efficacy to enhance rehabilitation outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals with vision loss.

Mike Hess
The Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) Apprenticeship Program is redefining pathways to competitive, high-demand employment for professionals with disabilities. As the only nationally registered apprenticeship program for blind and visually impaired individuals - now expanded to include a wide range of disabilities - BIT equips participants with cutting-edge training in Salesforce Administration and Digital Accessibility Analysis - with more courses continuing to be released.

Through strategic partnerships with employers, BIT removes traditional barriers to workforce entry by offering a low-risk, high-impact model that gives apprentices hands-on experience while allowing employers to evaluate talent in real-world settings.

Backed by the U.S. Department of Labor and a major Disability Innovation Fund grant from the U.S. Department of Education, BIT's program not only prepares career seekers for success but also helps employers build more accessible, equitable, and future-ready teams.

Hilary Hodes
In this two-part session, participants will explore the possibilities of the Calendar System. Calendar systems allow students with complex learning needs, including both vision and hearing loss, to organize the activities and people in their day with symbolic representation that can be both references for future events and opportunities to review and communicate about past events. Calendars can provide routines and structure as well as opportunities for labeling people, places and things, to support literacy development. Session 1 includes a dive into the foundational principles of calendar systems as well as the skills and concepts development they promote in students. Session 2 will include hands-on opportunities for participants to apply their learning as they design their own calendar system.

Gillian Pilcher
Vision Rehabilitation Teachers share best practices, explore innovative approaches, and address challenges in individualized planning, adaptive techniques, daily living skills, and overcoming barriers to independence for adults with visual impairments.

LaSonya Jackson, Karla Lesher and Traci Branch
This session will give the DARS-DHH program perspective on the Dual Case Workgroup. DARS/DBVI will highlight their collaboration and field successes through specific client examples.

Gus Chalkias
As virtual learning becomes increasingly essential in service delivery for people with visual impairments, Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB) has developed innovative remote training models that promote digital independence, workforce readiness, and technological equity. This workshop will provide an overview of HKSB's flagship virtual training programs, including TEAM (Technology, Employment, Achievement and Mastery) and TeenTech, both designed to equip transition-age youth with practical technology skills, soft skills for work readiness, and confidence using assistive technology in real-world settings.

In addition, participants will be introduced to the DATA (Digital Accessibility Testing Academy) program, a specialized training initiative that prepares individuals who are blind or visually impaired for entry-level roles in digital accessibility testing. The workshop will also highlight **A11y Fundamentals**, a prerequisite course to DATA, which provides foundational knowledge in accessibility principles, assistive technology interaction, digital inclusion, and the basics of identifying accessibility barriers across websites and digital platforms.

Attendees will gain insight into program structure, instructional methods, accessibility tools, mentorship integration, and employment-focused outcomes. Whether attendees are practitioners, educators, or program developers, this session will offer replicable strategies and practical frameworks for implementing effective virtual training pathways that empower individuals with visual impairments to succeed in today's digital workforce.

Becky Peek
For many of us, writing goals and communicating progress on those goals can be a laborious and painstaking part of teaching. During this session, we will look at how to develop goals for students who are blind, have low vision, and those with brain-based eye conditions. Additionally, we will discuss ways to set up effective systems for reporting on student progress. There will be plenty of time to share ideas.

Joe Orozco
This session will explore evidence-based strategies to support the transition of blind and visually impaired students from the classroom to meaningful career pathways, leveraging the Project RISE model. Focusing on resilience, self-advocacy, and real-world skill-building, the presentation will provide actionable frameworks and resources for teachers of the visually impaired, orientation and mobility specialists, and professionals across educational settings. Participants will learn how Project RISE cultivates growth mindsets, facilitates mentoring, and connects students to networks of opportunity, building critical capacities for independence and employment. The session will include interactive discussion on effective collaboration with families and community partners and highlight case studies illustrating student success. Attendees will leave equipped with practical tools and strategies to help foster confidence, independence, and professional ambition in blind youth, preparing them to thrive beyond the classroom.

Marianne Haegeli
A focus on diplomas, degrees, and career skills is not enough to prepare blind and low-vision jobseekers of any age for success in the working world. A lack of familiarity with - and proficiency in - professional practices required for today's work environment can lead to transition difficulties and shortened job tenure.

At NSITE, we believe that investing in professional and personal development is the key to unlocking our clients' full potential. We designed our Building Professional Behaviors (BPB) program specifically to guide individuals on a 48-week transformative journey towards success. Whether enhancing communication skills, cultivating self-motivation, or excelling in job search and work habits, our program equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and sustainable strategies needed to thrive in their career and personal life.

Becky Peek
Personalized books can be a fun way to work on student goals and target instructional needs. This make and take session will allow you to focus on making a book for one of the students on your caseload. Materials will be provided.

Kelsey Jones
If you've been hearing a lot about Gut Health lately and wondered what it means, then you are in luck! CommonHealth's new Gut Check program has got you covered. Learn why Gut Health is crucial for overall well-being and how it plays an important role in digestion, immune function, nutrient absorption, and even mental health.

Tish Harris
Our presentation will answer the Top 11 questions asked by TVIs and Education Coordinators. Our professional panel will provide answers from a Certified O&M Instructor, a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and the DBVI Student Team Program Coordinator. Topics covered will include how our roles differ, the correct referral age for services, and the process for referring students. We will also discuss assessments, family engagement and getting students assistive technology. Let's collaborate to facilitate student success!

Tish Harris
Come see the program line up for 2026 with over 25 programs for our DBVI students. DBVI is now offering virtual, family engagement, residential and even hybrid programs for a variety of interests and student levels. This year we will embrace O&M options, supported employment, tech camps, career exploration into non-traditional careers and a lot more. We will also share information on our Family Engagement events that connect not only students, but also parents, to our mission at DBVI. These have become increasingly well attended as families- not just students- find their community. We will share program information and who is a good match, and we want to hear any program ideas you might have as well!

Valery Kircher
This presentation will explore differences between brain based visual impairment in children and adults. It will include discussion on CVI as well as PCA, stroke, TBI and the impacts and the education and rehabilitation process for the two divergent populations.

Chris Holloway
What is PROWAG, and why does it matter to the visually impaired community? How do Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) help local and state transportation departments meet the requirements of PROWAG? How do the latest advancements in Accessible Pedestrian Signal technology provide solutions for agencies who have made excuses about not installing them? We will address these questions and, more importantly, talk about why they matter to you and your clients. By the end of our time together, you will have a clear understanding of PROWAG, how to advocate to local and state traffic departments for your clients, and how APS technology works so that you can better train your clients on where they are located, how to discover them, how to use them, and how to advocate for themselves.

Dan Oates
Blind & visually impaired students worldwide participate in the traditional U. S. Space Camp & Aviation Challenge programs with adaptations provided to enhance the student's participation.

Sam Seavey
Sam Seavey uses YouTube, Podcasting, consulting, and training to share his expert knowledge of the world of Assistive Technology for the visually impaired. With over 80,000 subscribers, and more than 1000 videos, he keeps busy posting new content weekly to his YouTube channel, The Blind Life, as well as his podcast by the same name. In this presentation, Sam will explain how he got from his Stargardt's diagnosis in adolescence to where he is today, collaborating with organizations such as Foundation Fighting Blindness, ACB, NFB, RNIB, Sony, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. He will share about navigating high school with a disability, his employment journey, and how a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, and his own determination to not let his disability hold him back, were crucial in putting him on the path that eventually led to becoming one of the top social media influencers in the blind community.

Darren Gladstone
Accessibility should not be an afterthought; it is essential to building a world where everyone can participate fully. Yet too many environments still create barriers for people with disabilities. This session explores how technology and inclusive design can break down those barriers and make spaces more welcoming for all.

We will share real-world examples from RightHear, an accessibility solution that enables people who are blind or low vision to navigate indoor spaces independently. Attendees will learn how digital wayfinding tools and universal design principles can be applied in parks, universities, healthcare settings, and more.

Participants will leave with practical insights into the latest accessibility innovations, strategies for implementation, and the broader benefits of creating inclusive spaces. Together, we can reimagine accessibility as a standard that improves life not just for people with disabilities, but for everyone.

Jim Franklin
In this session, Jim Franklin, Founder of Slide-A-Round Math Manipulatives, Special Education Teacher, and inventor of numerous math manipulatives, will begin by demonstrating some of his products and speaking about how they are used in the classroom. Attendees will have the opportunity to use the manipulatives and ask questions. Jim's math strategies include a number line to 10,000,000 and other math manipulatives which address fractions, decimals, money, elapsed time, weight, and capacity standards. His manipulatives are also available for low vision and blind students.

John Winstead
John will provide a first-hand perspective of Usher Syndrome, his experience with schools and sign language, and his transition to life as a DeafBlind adult. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in an interactive discussion with John and ask questions to help them better support DeafBlind students and clients.

Tish Harris
Did you know that DBVI has reached the Number 1 spot in Measurable Skills Gains among blind agencies across the country? Join us to find out how we can make these numbers even stronger. We will share information on the results of our student programming that have been shared with stakeholders, along with success stories from students. We also want to hear how to better collaborate with you to make the rewards and outcomes for our students even stronger.

James Nester
This presentation will involve a panel of Southside Outta Sight (SOS) members. The panel will share their personal experiences and viewpoints about our group. We will discuss the benefits of working with AER and the DBVI representatives involved with our group. For example, there are presentations on how to use low vision aids like video magnifiers and also the services provided by local agencies. We will share different ways in which we are beneficial to the sighted community by showing that with the right tools, we are independent members of our community. We are important to the local blind and visually impaired community for many reasons, including reaching out to help, encourage and educate those in our community who are blind and visually impaired. We share what services are available to blind and visually impaired people including transportation, DBVI, AER, Lion's Club, etc.

We will share the aids that we use to make our lives more independent and explain that when we have the proper tools and education, we can accomplish almost anything. AER and DBVI provide these valuable services.

Dona Sauerburger
One skill that is essential for successful independent travel of deafblind people which is often overlooked is preparing them to communicate and interact successfully with the public. Come join us to learn principles of successful interaction and a step-by-step process for teaching them to communicate with the public.

Sam Seavey
Orientation and Mobility technology is advancing beyond the white cane and GPS apps, and the future may involve robotics and autonomous guidance. In this session, Sam Seavey from The Blind Life will discuss the latest in O&M-focused assistive technology, explore the role of artificial intelligence and robotics in independent travel, and offer a glimpse into what navigation might look like in the years to come. Will the robots take over the world, or will they be the key to our independence?

Kristin Smedley
Join Kristin Smedley, mother of two thriving blind sons and award-winning advocate, as she shares her THRIVER Formula for Success - a dynamic framework for 1000x-ing student outcomes. In this engaging keynote, Kristin will reveal how to turn life's curveballs into home runs and empower blind, visually impaired, and deafblind students to dream big. Expect humor, heart, and actionable strategies that will inspire you to set extraordinary expectations for every learner.

Leslie Hoskins
Guide dog travel can be a life-changing tool for individuals who are blind or have low vision, offering increased confidence, independence, and freedom of movement. However, the transition to guide dog travel requires more than simply matching a person with a dog; it begins long before training and involves thoughtful assessment, preparation, and support.

This session will equip professionals with knowledge and tools to identify strong guide dog candidates and help prepare them for a successful guide dog partnership. We will explore the key traits of a potential guide dog user, including the International Guide Dog Federation Standards, travel skills, lifestyle factors, and motivation. Attendees will also learn practical strategies to help clients build the foundational skills necessary for guide dog travel and navigate common concerns or misconceptions.

Amy Scott and Lia Mason, representatives from the Office of Special Education Instructional Services at the Office of Student Assessment at the Virginia Department of Education, will provide key updates related to students who are blind or visually impaired. Topics may include legislation affecting the provision of services, updates on statewide assessments, and current policy guidance. The session will also highlight resources, initiatives, and professional development opportunities designed to strengthen instructional practices and promote equitable access.

Love Kingsbury
There are state government benefits available to individuals with disabilities. It is important to understand that benefits such as personal assistance and community support can play an important role in planning for the future. Navigating state disability services can be difficult, time-consuming, and overwhelming. This workshop explains Virginia's Medicaid Waivers, eligibility for services, and how to obtain this state benefit.

Theodore "Scott" Smith
Vocational evaluation is an essential step in helping individuals who are blind or visually impaired identify meaningful career pathways and achieve sustainable employment. For vocational counselors, the evaluation process extends far beyond standardized testing. It requires an understanding of functional limitations, assistive technology, transferable skills, and the unique barriers and opportunities present in today's labor market. This presentation will provide vocational counselors with practical strategies, evaluation tools, and planning approaches tailored to individuals with blindness, with a focus on empowering clients to pursue competitive and integrated employment.

Nitesh Rathod
This session will explore voice control features in the iPhone such as hands free use of voice over and understanding simple commands. Topics include the use of the iPhone for making calls, accessing emails, surfing Safari and other apps. There will be demonstrations of how to access voice control settings, messages and emails.