1 Day-Workshop
CREATING A UNIVERSALLY INCLUSIVE ADVENTURE: 9:00am-4:00pm
Carla Hacker & Melanie Wills, Experiential Systems Inc.

Session Description:
This interactive workshop is designed to create an environment and explore program and equipment design geared toward full inclusion and accessibility on challenge courses. It will also provide an overview of the technical skills needed to work with people who may need additional equipment. Come prepared to dive deep into the world of adventure programming and come away with resources needed to assess and grow the accessibility of your facility and program.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Learning Objectives:
1) Understand universal mindset and invitational education as it pertains to adventure courses.
2) Utilize accessibility assessment tools to determine what is needed on your course or program.
3) Practice with specialty equipment that may be needed to work with a broader range of people.
Network, share, and learn from others.

Carla Hacker-
Carla has spent her career in adventure programming seeking opportunities to fully include all people who choose to participate regardless of ability and encouraging others toward developing a Universal mindset. She has presented at conferences nationally and internationally. Carla is graduate faculty for the University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse and serves on the board of directors for the Association for Experiential Education. She is a member of the Association for Challenge Course Technology where she serves on the Universal Design and Inclusion affinity group.

Melanie Wills-
Melanie has a dedicated career in the outdoor industry working with various programs and populations. She strives to use challenge and adventure to promote growth, independence, and recovery for all. She loves getting out and active on challenge courses and helping others discover ways to make them more accessible to anyone of any ability. She has experience in program management at multiple camps & outdoor centers and is currently the Director of Operations & Development (COO/CTO) for Experiential Systems, Inc.

1.5 Day-Workshop
May 8 – 9
ADAPTIVE ADULT LEARN-TO-SWIM (ATLS) INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION: 9:00am-12:00pm
Dominic Latella & Bill Brenner, Swim Box  CANCELLED

Session Description:
SwimBox’s Adaptive Adult Learn-to-Swim (ALTS) instructor certification program trains and educates new and experienced swim instructors in the methods and techniques that work best for adult learners. The certification course is for anyone who teaches or wants to teach adult swim lessons. The adaptive-methods specialization incorporates necessary adjustments and tools for working with adult learners who have a variety of disabilities and/or needs for special accommodations.
*NCTRC CE Pre-Approval Pending

Learning Objectives:
1.)To teach instructors how to teach any Adult how to be water safe and learn to swim.
2.)To teach alternative methods for individuals with impairments or disabilities how to be water safe and to learn to swim.
3.)Learning how to progress your students to help meet there goals

Dominic Latella–
Coach Dominic Latella is the only US Masters Swimming (USMS) Level 4 (the highest certification available) certified coach in VA. He is an instructor for USMS Certifications and the USMS Adult Learn to Swim program. Dominic has also been appointed twice – the maximum amount – as the lead coach for USMS High Performance Camp, in addition to working with the swimming rehabilitation and adaptive swimming programs at Bethesda Naval Hospital for the Wounded Warriors. Dominic’s philosophy focuses on the execution of proper swimming technique to achieve improved efficiency and prevent injury. This way of coaching allows swimmers to not only reach personal bests, but do so in a way that allows their body to keep up their love of swimming for a lifetime. Fewer injuries and happy swimmers are Dominic’s favorite things to see.

0.5 Day-Workshop
INTRODUCTION TO PARA DANCE SPORT:
Hosted at the Olympic & Paralympic Training Center – Transportation will be provide by Move United from the DoubleTree to the Training Center.
9:00 am-12:00pm
Cheryl Angelelli & Tamerlan Gadirov, Dance Mobility

Session Description:
This hands on workshop will introduce participants to IPC World Para Dance Sport and how to start an adapted dance program in your community. Participants will observe and participate in learning different ballroom dance styles either as a standing or seated partner. Course will also feature a performance by one of the top Para Dance couples in the US.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Para-Dance-Slides_Move-United.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)To learn about the origins of Para Dance Sport and current opportunities
2.)Learn basic wheelchair dance styles and skills as either a standing or seated partner
3.)Learn ways to start an adapted dance program in your community

Cheryl Angelelli–
Cheryl Angelelli is a world record holder and former 4-time medalist in Paralympic Swimming. In 2014 she retired from Para Swimming and pursued another passion, Para Dance Sport. Cheryl and her partner, Tamerlan Gadirov, are one of the top Para Dance Sport couples in the U.S. In 2015 she co-founded Dance Mobility, a free adapted ballroom dance program for persons with disabilities supported by the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Foundation.

0.5 Day Workshop: INTRODUCTION TO ADAPTIVE TENNIS 1:00pm-4:00pm
Hosted at the Olympic & Paralympic Training Center – Transportation will be provide by Move United from the DoubleTree to the Training Center.
Jason Allen, U.S. Tennis Association, Andrea Snead, U.S. Tennis Association, Gabriella Hesse, & Lisa Pugliese LaCroix

Session Description:
This training session is designed to be engaging so that participants learn by doing. Facilitators will introduce the USTA’s new curriculum for teaching tennis to athletes with intellectual or developmental impairments. Participants will learn specific best practices by participating in activities that will lead to practice in facilitating. This curriculum and specific techniques are simple and easy to implement anywhere. Please join us and be prepared to have fun!
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Learning Objectives:
1.)Participants will understand the USTA’s broad landscape of adaptive tennis offerings.
2.)Participants will apply knowledge learned in class and practice facilitating various activities.

Lisa Pugliese LaCroix-
Lisa is a speech-language pathologist and founder of Love Serving Autism (LSA). A resident of South Florida, she has an extensive tennis background as a player and coach. She holds professional tennis certifications from the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) and the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR). Lisa specializes in the evaluation and treatment of children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities. LSA is one of the most recognized tennis-specific programs in the country that serve athletes with ASD. She is the co-author of the new intro to adaptive tennis curriculum that is being debuted at the Move United Conference.

Andrea Snead-
Andrea has been a professional and advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for over 20 years, and has proudly served ten of those as a spirited facilitator. She joined the USTA as Director of Diversity & Inclusion in July of 2021 and works closely with Community Tennis, the Sections, the USTA Foundation, and others to increase awareness, relevance and engagement among diverse communities. She began her career facilitating and educating on DEI with the University of Central Florida’s (UCF) Recreation and Wellness Center. During her time at UCF, Andrea spearheaded the inclusion of gaming and adaptive clubs to broaden aspects of diversity within sport clubs, which included the first collegiate wheelchair tennis team in Florida. She also served as chair of UCF’s Recreation and Wellness Center Diversity Committee, a member of the UCF Police Department’s Chief Advisory Council, and was a team lead for the university’s bias incident group on campus. Andrea is also a champion for DEI within their professional association, NIRSA, where she has served on the Board of Directors, as well as the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Commission. Andrea holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, a Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, and it currently in her Doctoral program in Sociology. When she is not coaching and watching sports, she spends her time working with collective of women growing the sport of women’s tackle football with the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC).

Gabriella Hesse-
Gabby Hesse is the Head of Wheelchair and Adaptive tennis and Marketing Manager at JTCC (Junior Tennis Champions Center) in College Park, MD. A USPTA certified tennis professional with extensive education in wheelchair tennis, her work involves running and growing the wheelchair, Special Olympics, and military veterans tennis programs and developing additional opportunities for players to train and compete. Hesse volunteers as a USTA Net Generation Wheelchair Tennis Regional Provider for the Mid-Atlantic and Middle States sections. Hesse graduated in 2020 from Florida Southern College where she competed on the DII women’s tennis team and studied Advertising & Public Relations.

Jason Allen-
Jason Allen is the Manager of Research, Education, Wheelchair Tennis, Adaptive Tennis and Technical at USTA National. His main goal is to conduct and facilitate research to grow and develop tennis across all facets. He is also part of the USTA U team that is restructuring the tennis coach certification process. Moreover, he oversees coaching education for both wheelchair and adaptive tennis. On the Technical side, he handles ball testing and court testing. Jason holds a BA in Foreign Language Education, an MA in Educational Leadership with a Principal’s License, and is currently finishing a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership with a focus on coaching education. Some of his current research projects consist of growing the 18-39-year-old space, wheelchair tennis mobility, parasport coaching studies, and conceptual coaching framework design.

0.5 Day-Workshop
FRAME RUNNING, EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES IN YOUR ADAPTIVE TRACK PROGRAM: 1:00-4:00pm
Virginia Wintersteen, Sports, Therapeutic & Adaptive Recreation, & RAD Innovations, & David Black, Sports, Therapeutic & Adaptive Recreation, & RAD Innovations

Session Description:
Frame Runners have been utilized in Europe for 30 years, but are just being becoming commercially available in the United States. This three wheeled adaptive piece of equipment was design for individuals with cerebral palsy, but opens the doors of adaptive track and field to a diverse spectrum of individuals with physical challenges. Frame Runners can be user for competition, recreational and therapeutic means. Frame Running is scheduled to become a Paralympic event. Come learn about this exciting adaptive piece of equipment that can open opportunities for your athletes.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Learning Objectives:
1.)Understand the components of a Frame Runners and how to adjust them.
2.)Learn how to assess an athlete and how to fit a frame Runner.
3.)Become familiar with Basic gaits and training methods.

Virginia Wintersteen-
Virginia Wintersteen MD is a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon who became involved in adaptive athletics to better serve her patients and improve their health. She is the founder and President of the Sports, Therapeutic and Adaptive Recreation Association in La Crosse, Wi. Although her initial interest in Frame Runners was to give options for athletes with cerebral Palsy, she soon recognized the diverse population that can benefit from Race Runners. She is one of a handful of Certified Frame Runner Coaches in the United States. She has at the University of Wisconsin-lacrosse, Viterbi University. She is the recipient of the Jefferson Award and named the “Outstanding Woman-Trail Blazer” by the YWCA.

0.5 Day-Workshop
PEN TO PAPER-DEVELOPING A SITTING VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM: 1:00-4:00pm
Elliot Blake, USA Volleyball

Session Description:
Small group workshop to develop actionable plans to create and offer sitting volleyball programming. Through a combination of lecture, roundtable discussion, and (hopefully) an on-court experience, participants will work together to put pen to paper in developing plans to add sitting volleyball to their current sports programming.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Learning Objectives:
1.)Develop a workable timeline for program implementation.
2.)Be able to identify and establish new program partners and recruit athlete participants.
3.)Obtain a basic knowledge of how to teach the games to include skills and strategy

Elliot Blake–
As USA Volleyball’s Manager of Sitting Volleyball, Elliot Blake provides support for the grassroots development of the sport across the country, created and leads the Sitting National Team Development Program, and supports all national team domestic events. He has served as a Technical Coordinator for the men’s and women’s sitting national teams while competing at the 2012 and 2016 Paralympic Games. He is currently a member of World Para-Volley’s Technical Commission and has served in a number of Tournament or Competition Director Roles for the WPV World Championships and Para Volley Pan America Zone Championships.

OPENING RECEPTION @ US Olympic & Paralympic Museum
5:30pm – 7:30pm

MEMBER COFFEE HOUR: MEET & GREET NETWORKING SESSION 7:30am-8:30am
We invite Move United member organization representatives to attend this coffee hour and meet/engage with Move United’s membership services team as well as network with other professionals in the industry. Organizations interested in the Move United membership network are welcome to attend as well.

WELCOME SESSION
9:00am – 9:30am

3-D PRINTING: 9:45-10:45 am
Jonathan Duvall, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs

Session Description:
There is a small market for many sports and recreation related assistive technologies and therefore manufacturers will not produce large quantities of these devices. Three-dimensional (3-D) printing is becoming a useful approach to prototyping and manufacturing custom equipment in adaptive sports and recreation. The session will cover some introduction to 3-D printing technologies and their capabilities; including various materials, methods, and machines. It will also demonstrate how virtually anyone can design a part and have it built. Lastly, there will be numerous examples shown of sports related assistive technologies that have been designed and built by the presenter and colleagues.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Learning Objectives:
1.) Introduction to 3-D printing capabilities
2.)Identify how to access and use 3-D printing
3.)Demonstrate how 3-D printing can enhance adaptive sport and recreation

Dr. Jonathan Duvall-
Dr. Jonathan Duvall is a Research Biomedical Engineer at the Department of Veterans Affairs in the Human Engineering Research Laboratories. He has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Science and Technology, and a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences all from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Duvall’s research involves designing and evaluating assistive technology and conducting scientific research which increases the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities. He also co-founded PathVu which evaluates and maps sidewalks and other pedestrian pathways for accessibility.

PARALYMPIC CLASSIFICATION OVERVIEW 11:00am-12:00pm
Julie Dussliere, U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee

Session Description-
This session will provide an overview of the Paralympic classification system, the ten Paralympic eligible impairments, and eligible sports. The history of the classification process and the differences between national and international classification will also be reviewed.

Julie Dussliere-
Julie (O’Neill) Dussliere currently serves as the Chief of Paralympics for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC). In this position, Dussliere oversees the high-performance planning and support processes and sport development projects for the 27 summer and winter Paralympic sports as well as leading Paralympic international relations efforts. She also directs the day-to-day operations for the six Paralympic sports managed by the USOPC – alpine skiing, cycling, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, swimming and track and field. She began her USOPC career in 2003, when she joined U.S. Paralympics as an associate director and head coach of the U.S. Paralympics Swimming National Team. Through the 2008 Paralympic Games, Dussliere directed all high-performance planning and coaching support for U.S. Paralympics Swimming including implementing the Paralympic Swimming Resident Program at the Colorado Springs Olympic & Paralympic Training Center. In this position, Dussliere also developed the national certification processes for Paralympic swimming officials, classifiers and coaches. Dussliere was involved with coaching Paralympic swimming on an international level for over a decade. She served as an assistant coach for the 1998 International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Championships and 2000 U.S. Paralympic Swimming Team before taking over head coach duties for the 2002 International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Swimming World Championships, becoming the first female head coach appointment for any U.S. team at a major international championship. In 2006, she was awarded the U.S. Olympic Committee Paralympic Coach of the Year. Two years later, she led the 2008 U.S. Paralympic Swimming Team to unparalleled success at the Beijing Paralympic Games as the team finished first in the medal standings for the first time with 44 total medals. Dussliere has served as the Team USA chef de mission for the Paralympic Winter Games Sochi 2014, Parapan American Games Toronto 2015, Paralympic Games Rio 2016, Paralympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, Parapan American Games Lima 2019, and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020. The 2018 Games marked Team USA’s best performance at a Winter Games since 2002 with the U.S. topping the overall (36) and gold medal count (13) in South Korea. After serving as vice president, Dussliere was appointed the president of the Americas Paralympic Committee in 2018 to become the first woman and first U.S. representative to lead the organization. The APC is recognized as the sole regional representative of the Americas region within the worldwide Paralympic Movement. Prior to her work with the USOPC, Dussliere spent the previous eight years as a swim coach and administrator for various USA Swimming clubs including Rocket Aquatics (Syracuse, New York), Kansas City Blazers, Liverpool Jets (Liverpool, New York) and West Coast Aquatics (San Jose, California). She is a graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Russian where she was an Academic All-Big Ten Conference honoree in swimming, and Ohio State University with a Master of Arts degree in Slavic and East European Studies.

The OPPORTUNITY COST OF PARTICIPATING IN ADAPTIVE SPORTS: 12:10-12:30pm
Thomas Carr, Craig Hospital

Session Description:
Cost is a long understood barrier that has unfortunately become and accepted one. This barrier creates an opportunity cost for athletes looking to get into and excel in adaptive sports. For those athletes able to overcome this barrier sport and the participation in sport (what we will called shared experiences) are the great equalizer. When we see Paralympic athletes on TV, or mono skiers at the X-Games or share the road with a hand-cyclist that is a relatable thing for the general public, a shared experience that makes us more alike than different. However, the barriers and costs are often hidden and happen prior to that shared experience. So in our mind Sport does challenge Ableism and shared experiences leading to a greater understanding but if we don’t fix the behind the scenes and often hidden (socioeconomic) barriers to more individuals participating this will continue to be a cost that is too high for most.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Move-United-May-2022-tom-carr.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)Participants will be able to identify how historically disability has become synonymous with illness and by way of association higher costs.
2.)Participants will be able to identify three creative ways to make their program more accessible/affordable.
3.)Participants will engage in a discussion on other ways they can limit costs as a barrier to participation.

Thomas Carr-
Tom Carr, CTRS is the Director of Therapeutic Recreation and Military programs at Craig Hospital in Denver, Colorado. Previous to Craig, Tom was the Director of Athletics at Northeast Passage, a program of the University of New Hampshire offering recreational opportunities to individuals with disabilities. His experience also includes founder of the Adaptive Sports program at Mount Snow, Vermont and a therapeutic recreation instructor at the University of New Hampshire.

INFUSING ADAPTIVE SPORTS INTO THE GENERAL PHYSICAL EDUCATION CURRICULUM: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Dean Ravizza, Salisbury University, & Deeyoung Lee, University of Minnesota

Session Description:
Adaptive sports can be taught to students with and without disabilities within an inclusive physical education setting. This requires training in adaptive sports and including adaptive sport content in physical education pedagogy and adapted physical education training programs. This session will enable participants to learn sport-specific skills associated with adaptive sports such as beep baseball, goalball, and sitting volleyball, that are task-analyzed to their simplest forms to empower those teaching students with disabilities to create a more inclusive physical education experience.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Including-Adaptive-Sports-into-the-General-Physical-Curriculum.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.) Enable participants to task-analyze [adaptive] sport-specific skills to understand the skills necessary to successfully engage students with and without disabilities..
2.) Create opportunities to infuse adaptive sports into a general physical education curriculum.
3.) Recognize how adaptive sports in the general physical education context can to increase student knowledge of adaptive sports, increase their disability awareness, and shape perceptions of disability.

Dr. Dean Ravizza-
Dr. Dean Ravizza is a Professor in the Department of Secondary & Physical Education at Salisbury University where he directs the Adapted Physical Education Teaching & Learning Lab. He has worked for nearly twenty years as an international sport for development and peace specialist to advance the uses of sport for children in armed conflict, children with disabilities, and refugee children and youth. He was named a USM Regents’ Professor of Excellence in Public Service and Rotary International Peace Fellow for his extensive local and international community-based work to further the uses of sport to mobilize vulnerable children and youth from different backgrounds.

Dr. Daehyoung-
“DH” Lee is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Human Sciences who teaches undergraduate Developmental Adapted Physical Education courses. DH earned his Ph.D. at Indiana University’s Department of Kinesiology, with an emphasis on physical activity and health promotion in individuals with disabilities. Prior to his doctoral degree, he studied Adapted Physical Activity at Katholieke Universite it Leuven in Belgium and Palacký University in the Czech Republic. His research work focuses on improving physical and mental health in individuals with disabilities using interactive technologies such as mobile health apps and wearable activity trackers. He has presented his scholarly work at regional, national, and international conferences in the fields of Adapted Physical Education, Autism, and Health Technology. His professional achievements include National Doctoral Scholar Award by American Kinesiology Association, John H. Edwards Fellowship by Indiana University Graduate School, and various research grants.

FRAME RUNNING: EXPANDING ADAPTIVE TRACK & FIELD OPPORTUNITIES: 3:00-3:45pm
Virginia Wintersteen, Sports, Therapeutic and Adaptive (STAR) Association

Session Description:
Frame Runners have been utilized in Europe for 30 years, but are just beginning to become commercially available in the United States. This three wheeled adaptive piece of equipment was design for individuals with cerebral palsy, but opens the doors of adaptive track and field to a diverse spectrum of individuals with physical challenges. Frame Runners can be user for competition, recreational and therapeutic means. Frame Running is scheduled to become a Paralympic event. Come learn about this exciting adaptive piece of equipment that can open opportunities for your athletes.

CAPITAL REGION NORDIC ALLIANCE: TRAIL ORIENTEERING FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED: 4:00-5:30pm
Russ Myer (PT, PhD, CAS), Karen Fagan (CRNA), Megan Hale, Amos Miller, Emily Greene, Alex Fianacca, & David J. De Notaris

Session Description:
The session will present the fundamental theories, technical applications and practical applications of the Microsoft Soundscape Technology by both Microsoft Soundscape and Capital Region Nordic Alliance Staff. Sample terrain and trail based courses will be available for use at the conference center as well at nearby Quail Lake Park for the duration of the conference. Individuals and groups will have the opportunity to walk both types of courses. Opportunities will be available for attendees to have sample terrain and trail based courses developed for their organization’s support of the visually impaired in the development of outdoor trail orienteering sports.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/FINAL-CRNA-MSS-Ed-Conference-presentation-May-2022-Russ.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)Understand the fundamental principles of CRNA’s Navigation Orientation and Mobility program using Microsoft Soundscapes audio system for the blind/low vision.
2.)Realize the benefits of adding such a program benefitting the level of independence in the visually impaired your organization serves.
3.)Appreciate the full scope of empowered, integrated navigation and adaptive sports using Microsoft Soundscapes.

Russ Myer-
Russ Myer, PT, PhD, CAS has been involved with adaptive Nordic sports for over 30 years as a competitive athlete, coach, event manager and leader of a number of Nordic/Para Nordic organizations. Russ is a classifier for International Paralympic Committee working worldwide to elevate the opportunities for those with mobility impairments to excel in xc skiing, biathlon, trail orienteering and para-skeleton. Currently Russ’s NFP-Capital Region Nordic Alliance is providing onsite Para Nordic programming throughout the Mid Atlantic and New England states.

David J. De Notaris-
David J. De Notaris has held leadership roles for the NJ Department of Human Services, NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the PA Department of Labor & Industry Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, most recently serving as their Executive Director with 1200 Professional staff, $200 M yearly budgets, assisting over 10000 individuals with disabilities find competitive integrated employment. David has served as a job developer, job coach, coordinator of assistive technology and appointed to several boards and committees including the NJ State Rehabilitation Council and the workforce investment board chairing the literacy committee. David also served for 2-years as president of his national professional organization, the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind NCSAB. Currently David is the Chief Innovation Officer for Sky’s the Limit Communications & Associates a training firm that deliver resilience, leadership and diversity trainings for schools/universities, Fortune 500 Companies, state agencies and associations nationally.

MEMBER COFFEE HOUR: MEET & GREET NETWORKING SESSION 7:30am-8:30am
We invite Move United member organization representatives to attend this coffee hour and meet/engage with Move United’s membership services team as well as network with other professionals in the industry. Organizations interested in the Move United membership network are welcome to attend as well.

WELCOME SESSION
9:00am – 9:30am

ELEVATING PARALYMPIC AWARENESS 9:45-10:45am
Julie Dussliere, U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee

Session Description:
Julie Dussliere, Chief of Paralympic Sport at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, will provide an overview from the last year along with some of the programs that Team USA is focusing on in order to grow awareness of the Paralympic Movement ahead of Los Angeles 2028.

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the structure of the Paralympic Movement.
2. Know the key programs focus areas for U.S. Paralympics.
3. Learn about initiatives for increasing Paralympic awareness.

Julie Dussliere-
Julie (O’Neill) Dussliere currently serves as the Chief of Paralympics for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC). In this position, Dussliere oversees the high-performance planning and support processes and sport development projects for the 27 summer and winter Paralympic sports as well as leading Paralympic international relations efforts. She also directs the day-to-day operations for the six Paralympic sports managed by the USOPC – alpine skiing, cycling, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, swimming and track and field. She began her USOPC career in 2003, when she joined U.S. Paralympics as an associate director and head coach of the U.S. Paralympics Swimming National Team. Through the 2008 Paralympic Games, Dussliere directed all high-performance planning and coaching support for U.S. Paralympics Swimming including implementing the Paralympic Swimming Resident Program at the Colorado Springs Olympic & Paralympic Training Center. In this position, Dussliere also developed the national certification processes for Paralympic swimming officials, classifiers and coaches. Dussliere was involved with coaching Paralympic swimming on an international level for over a decade. She served as an assistant coach for the 1998 International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Championships and 2000 U.S. Paralympic Swimming Team before taking over head coach duties for the 2002 International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Swimming World Championships, becoming the first female head coach appointment for any U.S. team at a major international championship. In 2006, she was awarded the U.S. Olympic Committee Paralympic Coach of the Year. Two years later, she led the 2008 U.S. Paralympic Swimming Team to unparalleled success at the Beijing Paralympic Games as the team finished first in the medal standings for the first time with 44 total medals. Dussliere has served as the Team USA chef de mission for the Paralympic Winter Games Sochi 2014, Parapan American Games Toronto 2015, Paralympic Games Rio 2016, Paralympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, Parapan American Games Lima 2019, and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020. The 2018 Games marked Team USA’s best performance at a Winter Games since 2002 with the U.S. topping the overall (36) and gold medal count (13) in South Korea. After serving as vice president, Dussliere was appointed the president of the Americas Paralympic Committee in 2018 to become the first woman and first U.S. representative to lead the organization. The APC is recognized as the sole regional representative of the Americas region within the worldwide Paralympic Movement. Prior to her work with the USOPC, Dussliere spent the previous eight years as a swim coach and administrator for various USA Swimming clubs including Rocket Aquatics (Syracuse, New York), Kansas City Blazers, Liverpool Jets (Liverpool, New York) and West Coast Aquatics (San Jose, California). She is a graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Russian where she was an Academic All-Big Ten Conference honoree in swimming, and Ohio State University with a Master of Arts degree in Slavic and East European Studies.

GROWING YOUR ORGANIZATION: LIFE CYCLES OF NONPROFITS AND LESSONS LEARNED ALONG THE WAY: 11:00am – 12:30pm
Ed Bronsdon, Outdoors for All Foundation, Kim Easton, National Sports Center for the Disabled & Edie Perkins, Kelly Brush Foundation

Session Description:
Nonprofits struggle with many of the same challenges. How do you grow your organization? What evaluation tools do you use? Have other organizations also been challenged by similar issues? We’ll share an outline of the different life stages of nonprofits — and affirm that you are not alone as a nonprofit leader. We’ll reference the books “Five Life Stages of Nonprofit Organizations” and “Nonprofit Lifecycles: Stage-Based Wisdom for Nonprofit Capacity” — recommended pre-session reading, but not required. We’ll share examples of challenges we have faced and lead a discussion of ways forward in managing through those issues and development stages.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/MoveUnitedPresentation_nonprofit-lifecycles_050222.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.) An awareness and understanding of difference life stages for nonprofit organizations and key assumptions of those stages.
2.) Networking with other nonprofit leaders who also are managing through these life stages.
3.) Tools and resources to help assess what stage your organization may be in now and ways to help your organization grow.

Ed Bronsdon:
Ed Bronsdon is passionate about helping people. He believes good leaders help see and set a vision for the future and good managers help people to effectively pursue that vision. Ed is the Executive Director of the Outdoors for All Foundation.

Kim Easton:
Kim Easton is passionate about making a positive difference in the world. Kim strives to connect people with the resources and support that they need to thrive and be successful in their lives. Kim is the CEO at National Sports Center for the Disabled.

Edie Perkins:
Edie Perkins has over twenty years managing businesses and developing products for PreK-12 schools. Edie is thrilled to bring together her professional background, passion for sports and new experience living with an SCI to help others thrive. Edie is the Executive Director of the Kelly Brush Foundation

HOW TO CULTIVATE A HEALTHY AND INCLUSIVE ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: 2:00-3:00pm
Danny Glasser, National Ability Center, & Emil Chuang

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Danny-Move-United-6.8-MB.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)How to advocate for diversity and inclusion throughout every department (board members, competitive athletes, staff, donors, interns and more.
2.)How to fundraise and budget to ensure a healthy bottom line for operations and adaptive programming.
3.)How to leverage adaptive qualities for optimal growth.

Emil Chuang-Emil Chuang is a talented and strategic individual with 20 years of pharmaceutical experience (large pharma, biotech, therapeutics, medical nutrition, and device/diagnostic) with a proven track record of success. Following on from a successful academic practice at Duke University and University of Pennsylvania, Emil was able to apply his vast clinical experience into a Pharma setting and de-convolute complex problems into simple actionable solutions.

BEST PRACTICES IN PARASPORT & ADAPTIVE SPORT MANAGEMENT:3:00-3:45 pm
Jason Allen, U.S. Tennis Association & Gabby Hesse

Session Description:
This session will discuss successes, challenges, and best practices in adaptive and para-sport programs. Presenters will focus on the approaches of the US Tennis Association and the Junior Tennis Champions Center to adaptive and wheelchair tennis and will engage participants in discussions of their own programs’ successes, failures, and lessons learned along the way. This Professional Learning Community will lead to the beginnings of a framework for best practices in adaptive and para-sport programs to be used around the country.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Gabrielle-Hesse-Slides.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)Participants will be highly engaged in various activities designed to highlight successes, challenges, and best practices in adaptive and para-sport programs.
2.)Participants will develop an informal Professional Learning Community/Community of Practice through interactions with each other during and after the session, allowing opportunities for networking and leading to the emergence of a framework for best practices in adaptive and parasport.
3.)Participants will leave the presentation knowing how to take the next actionable steps to get their programs to where they want to be and the tools and know-how to develop a pathway or pipeline to allow all athletes the resources to achieve their goals.

Gabby Hesse-Gabby Hesse is the head of wheelchair and adaptive tennis and marketing manager at JTCC (Junior Tennis Champions Center) in College Park, MD. A USPTA certified tennis professional with extensive education in wheelchair tennis, her work involves running and growing the wheelchair, Special Olympics, and military veterans tennis programs and developing additional opportunities for players to train and compete. Hesse volunteers as a Net Generation Wheelchair Tennis Regional Provider for the Mid-Atlantic and Middle States sections. Hesse graduated in 2020 from Florida Southern College where she competed on the DII women’s tennis team and studied Advertising & Public Relations.

Jason Allen-
Jason Allen is the Manager of Research, Education, Wheelchair Tennis, Adaptive Tennis and Technical at USTA National. His main goal is to conduct and facilitate research to grow and develop tennis across all facets. He is also part of the USTA U team that is restructuring the tennis coach certification process. Moreover, he oversees coaching education for both wheelchair and adaptive tennis. On the Technical side, he handles ball testing and court testing. Jason holds a BA in Foreign Language Education, an MA in Educational Leadership with a Principal’s License, and is currently finishing a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership with a focus on coaching education. Some of his current research projects consist of growing the 18-39-year-old space, wheelchair tennis mobility, parasport coaching studies, and conceptual coaching framework design.

THINKING ROUND: HUMAN CENTERED APPROACH TO SOLVING ISSUES OF ACCESS:4:00-5:30pm
Susan Pinkwater, Francesca Riccio-Ackermnan- Research Specialist- MIT Media Lab, Jason Thompson, Cape Inclusion, Senior Advisor, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, William Chernicoff, PhD, Global Research and Innovation, Toyota Mobility Foundation, Jonathan Duvall, Brian Tolsma, TS Prosthetics Dawna Callahan , Founder All Sport Consulting
Session Description:
We believe that adaptive Sports transform the lives of people with physical disabilities and yet the high cost and access remains prohibitive and innovation is slow. We have assembled a multi-stakeholder group comprised of advanced mobility engineers, experts in global health and policy, anthropologists and adaptive athletes and strategists to try a new approaches to solve these issues- and maybe a few others!

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Move-United-roundtable-slides.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)Discuss barriers to creating a less expensive running blade.
2.)Explore strategies for CMS to consider the physical activity of adaptive sports as preventative health care and thus should be covered by insurance.
3.)Discuss the various aspects on inclusion and access

Susan Pinkwater-
Founder, Adaptive Sports Movement, with the belief all people have a right to physical activity.

MEMBER COFFEE HOUR: MEET & GREET NETWORKING SESSION 7:30am-8:30am
We invite Move United member organization representatives to attend this coffee hour and meet/engage with Move United’s membership services team as well as network with other professionals in the industry. Organizations interested in the Move United membership network are welcome to attend as well.

WELCOME SESSION
9:00am – 9:30am

PATHS TO CREATING TRULY INCLUSIVE ADAPTIVE SPORTS ORGANIZATION: 9:45-10:45am
Kari Miller-Ortiz, Move United, Dawna Callahan- CEO All in Sport Consulting, Dayne Law-Co-Chair Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council Team River Runner

Session Description:
This interactive session will examine and discuss the impacts of not only inclusion but the negative impact and effects of exclusion. We’ll examine best practices of representation and advocacy when leaders create an organizational culture focused on making decisions based on an inclusive lens.

Learning Objectives:
1.) Effects of Exclusion
2.) Proactive usage of Representation and Advocacy in adaptive sports organizations.
3.) Resources for running organizational decisions through an inclusive lens

Dawna Callahan-
Dawna Callahan is the Founder & CEO of All In Sport Consulting. The foundation of All In Sport is that all should have the opportunity to experience the power of sport. The organization partners with organizations to create life-changing opportunities through sport for the disabled. Prior to starting her own business, Dawna has worked with U.S. Paralympics, Challenged Athletes Foundation, DSUSA (now MoveUnited). She is a wheelchair user as the result of transverse myelitis leaving her with incomplete paralysis.

All In Sport Consulting was recently named to the Valuable 500’s, Valuable Directory, The organization is one of only 77 organizations globally to be listed within the Valuable Directory consisting of consultants, suppliers, and solutions providers – all of which have demonstrated extensive experience in their fields.

Dayne Law-
Dayne Law is a social worker, queer/transgender man, Coast Guard veteran, kayaker, and lifelong water sports enthusiast. He has worked with many underserved communities in his clinical work and has volunteered with the nonprofit Team River Runner for 8 years as an adaptive paddling instructor, chapter leader, and is Co-chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team. All of Dayne’s work as a clinician and volunteering with veterans with disabilities has led him to understand that in order to serve clients and veterans well, individuals must have their psychosocial needs met. Inclusion and belonging are both critical needs necessary for people to thrive in their community. When an individual can thrive, true healing can begin.

Dayne believes that ALL people regardless of identity, ability, or status deserve equitable access and the opportunity to participate fully in any activity. Lately Dayne has been on a self-imposed journey to examine his own implicit biases as well as areas of privilege and is on a personal quest for social justice in the communities that he is a part of. Dayne currently lives in Boise, Idaho.

Kari Miller-Ortiz-
Is an Army veteran and three-time Paralympic medalist who has coached, lobbied for, and created adaptive programs across the country. Beyond her drive for empowering others through Adaptive sports, she has had the opportunity to expand upon her passions for Equity in hiring practices as a member of Maximus’ DEI design committee and served as a Committee lead for the National Association for College Employers (NACE) People of Color. Currently, Kari uses her combined passions and experience as the current Director of People and Culture at Move United.

KNOWLEDGE IS EMPOWERMENT: BRIDGING THE INCLUSION GAP BETWEEN ATHLETES AND COACHES: 11:00am-12:00pm
Ashley Eisenmenger & Emma Cham, DPT School

Session Description:​​
This session will be a combination presentation and discussion designed to challenge the existing ideals, beliefs, and perceptions folks have of athletes with disabilities. Through learning and conversation, attendees will gain knowledge and perspective that can help them create better equity and inclusion in their respective sports settings. Topics include models of disability, unconscious bias, ableism, inspiration porn, language, and identity.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Ashley-Eisenmenger.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)Understand the concept of unconscious bias, how to recognize it, and how to curb it.
2.)Define and understand models of disability and how those perceptions influence interactions with the disabled community.
3.)Coach/athlete power dynamics – understanding and striking a balance between Coach knowledge and athlete expertise via their own lived experience as a disabled person.

Ashley Eisenmenger–
Ashley earned a bachelor of arts degree in Organizational Communications from North Central College. While at North Central, Ashley competed as the first NCAA triathlete with a disability that required sport-specific accommodations and advocated for the inclusion of people with disabilities in collegiate sports and the fitness and recreation industries. She is currently a member of the Dare2tri Elite Team and a multisport coach. Ashley speaks regularly to groups about topics such as perspective, adversity, performance, and disability. She continues to advocate for the inclusion and integration of people with disabilities in the fitness world.

Emma Chambers-
Emma earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Berry College. She is currently a third year Doctor of Physical Therapy student at Samford University and is researching disability representation among licensed physical therapists. Emma prioritizes social media advocacy with a focus on taboo topics surrounding disability and blindness. She works to create spaces where people can bring their existing knowledge of disability to the table, while also challenging their current beliefs to ultimately create more inclusive and open dialogue. Emma enjoys CrossFit, lifting, and the occasional run with friends.

LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD: LEADERSHIP’S ROLE IN WORKPLACE DISABILITY INCLUSION: 12:10-12:30 pm
Kevin Brousard, U.S. Association of Blind Athletes

Session Description:
Blind athlete and sports management professional Kevin Brousard speaks from his own experience and background on the topic of disability employment, the barriers faced by people with disabilities entering the modern workforce and practical tactics to address those challenges. Providing insight compiled from his experience leading program development for two Paralympic team sports for the US Association of Blind Athletes, Kevin turns the conversation to the employers and business operators themselves, and the key leadership role they possess in order to change the narrative on disability inclusion in the workplace.

Learning Objectives:
1.) Disability employment
2.)Accessibility and Accommodations
3.)Leadership Development

Kevin Brousard-
Born with a rare retinal disorder, Kevin has been legally blind since as far back as he can remember. The target of bullying and ridicule as a child due to his vision led him down a dark road of depression and anxiety. Eventually, Kevin found an outlet through the world of adaptive sports. In track and field, Kevin has amassed 3 world titles, 3 Pan American titles and the US Paralympic record in the discus. He also competed internationally for the USA Judo Paralympic team for 3 years. Kevin currently serves as the Programs and Finance Director for the US Association of Blind Athletes. His experience with childhood bullying has led Kevin to become a mental health advocate and public speaker

CREATING COMMUNITY IN A DISJOINTED WORLD: 2:00-3:00pm
Cat Bouwkamp

Session Description: 
The purpose of this session is to learn to create cohesion in disjointed or “difficult” teams or programs by designing step-by-step plan to identify where the division or differences lie, increase empathy, and how to facilitate conversation & activities to build unity.

Learning Objectives:
1.)Learning how to use the 3 E’s of Disability Awareness to help athletes embrace their disability as a positive identity.
2.)Learn how to use KPA Analysis on athletes/ members.
3.)Learn how to use and teach active listening to increase team empathy based around the shared identity of disability.

Cat Bouwkamp-
Cat Bouwkamp, CTRS is a 13-time Parafencing National Champion and USA Fencing’s youngest Paralympian ever, competing at age 16 at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London. She has degrees from Indiana University in Nonprofit Management and Recreational Therapy and while at IU she co-founded the first adaptive sports club, a wheelchair basketball club. Bouwkamp has interned and worked at major Paralympic sport organizations like Move United, Lakeshore Foundation, the USOPC, U.S. Association of Blind Athletes and USA Fencing with the goals of increasing access to sports. She is currently the Sports Performance Manager at USA Fencing, managing the Parafencing Program.

DEVELOPING A UNIVERSAL MINDSET: 4:00-5:30pm
Carla Hacker & Melanie Wills, Experiential Systems Inc. 

Session Description:
Creating opportunities for everyone to enjoy outdoor adventures and welcoming a broad audience into the experience begins by considering accessibility and inclusion through a universal mindset and intentionality. In this interactive workshop we will keep this end in mind as we explore what it takes to move the needle on universal accessibility and full inclusion in any adventure.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Developing-a-Universal-Mindset-90-minute-May-2022.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1) Understand universal mindset and invitational education as it pertains to adventure programming.
2) Overview of accessibility assessment tools to explore what may be needed in your program.
3) Gain knowledge from networking and sharing with others around this topic.

Carla Hacker-
Carla Hacker has spent her career in adventure programming seeking opportunities to fully include all people who choose to participate regardless of ability and encouraging others toward developing a Universal mindset. She has presented at conferences nationally and internationally. In addition Carla is graduate faculty for educators pursuing a Masters degree in Experiential Education.

Melanie Wills-
Melanie has a dedicated career in the outdoor industry working with various programs and populations. She strives to use challenge and adventure to promote growth, independence, and recovery for all. She loves getting out and active on challenge courses and helping others discover ways to make them more accessible to anyone of any ability. She has experience in program management at multiple camps & outdoor centers and is currently the Director of Operations & Development (COO/CTO) for Experiential Systems, Inc.

MEMBER COFFEE HOUR: SAFESPORT TRAINING, SPORT PROTECTION POLICY, AND MORE 7:30am-8:30am
We invite Move United member organization representatives to attend this coffee hour and meet/engage with Move United’s membership services team as well as network with other professionals in the industry. Organizations interested in the Move United membership network are welcome to attend as well.

USING UNIVERSAL DESIGN AND NEW EQUIPMENT TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO OUTDOOR SPORTS AND RECREATION: 9:00-10:00am
Nicole Verneuille, Scott Trager, & Tyler Rich

Session Description:
Learn about the development of SOAR (Specialized Outdoor Adaptive Recreation) in New York. One of the most powerful ways to improve accessibility systems is for organizations to collaborate. Working together, each organization brings its strengths to the table and also learns from the experiences of the other. You’ll hear from Tish (GRIT) and Scott (NORA) on how their organizations collaborated. And you’ll hear from Tyler, a multi-sport adaptive athlete and avid outdoors person, who will share his experience guiding the development of the program. We’ll also offer practical tips and resources for financing outdoor recreation programs with a limited budget.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Learning Objectives:
1.)Learn how organizations and adaptive athletes collaborated to build a world-class adaptive outdoor sports and recreation program
2.)Understand best practices in collaborating with other provider to create inclusive opportunities for outdoor sports and recreation
3.)How to get outdoor adaptive sport & recreation programs off the ground with low financial investment

Nicole Verneuille- CTRS
Nicole is a Recreation Therapist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in adaptive sports with both veteran and community based organizations. Nicole received her Bachelor of Science at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse; then completed two internships at the Milwaukee VAMC where she developed her niche for military programming within the Spinal Cord Injury Unit. In addition to being a full time Recreation Therapist, Nicole also has experience as the Director for the United States Wheelchair Rugby Association National Championship Tournament, as well as the Program/Event Director for the only competitive Adaptive Obstacle Course Race, the Para Spartan. Nicole is currently part of the Rider Support Team with GRIT.

Scott Trager-
Scott Trager is founder & president of Northeast Off Road Adventures (NORA, est. 2011) in Ellenville, NY. NORA’s training, driving tours, team outings and adventure programs serve commercial, government and private sector clients. Scott’s 30+ year career included roles as software developer, project & product manager, global team leader at companies including Merrill Lynch and Bloomberg, and adjunct college professor. Scott’s education includes a BS in Computer Science, MS in Management Science, Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and he is a certified 4 wheel drive instructor. In 2018, Scott and his team created NORA’s Specialized Outdoor Adaptive Recreation Program (SOAR) which offers adaptive hiking, off-road driving and other recreational activities to guests with mobility impairments.

Tyler Rich-
​​Tyler Rich is a multi-disciplinary adaptive athlete hailing from Central Virginia. An avid GRIT Freedom Chair user since 2016, Tyler entered the world of adaptive obstacle course racing in 2017. He was one of the inaugural athletes in Spartan Race’s Para program, culminating in a Bronze finish at the Spartan Para World Championship in 2019 in Laughlin, Nevada. Over the years he has participated in countless ruck marches, obstacle course races, and athletic events around the country. In 2019 he joined the staff at Northeast Off-Road Adventures as an adaptive trail guide for their SOAR (Specialized Outdoor Adaptive Recreation) Program, instructing guests on the intricacies of navigating adaptive equipment through the outdoors. In his spare time he enjoys surfing, mountain biking, archery, hiking, and volunteering with veterans charities.

ADAPTIVE KAYAKING WITH TEAM RIVER RUNNER-VETERANS ON THE RIVER TO RECOVERY 10:10-10:30am
Marc Dervaes, Team River Runner; Celiann Gonzalez, Team River Runner, Richard Bloom, Team River Runner & Michael Murphy, Team River Runner

Session Description:
Veterans on the river to recovery! Our program provides health and healing through paddle sports. We offer new ways for veterans to heal by offering exciting, challenging experiences that they may have lost after separating from the military. We provide accessibility to veterans with disabilities by outfitting certain equipment to get them on the water. This outfitting can range from making a hard shell kayak accessible for someone with an above the knee amputation, to altering a paddle for someone with limited grip strength. Most of the techniques and equipment we use to do this has been fabricated by the Team River Runner staff that are so passionate about adaptive paddling with veterans. We also have our focus on veterans with visual impairments, and offer clinics that specialize in teaching them how to take verbal commands with the ultimate trust in their guides. Veterans with spinal injuries aren’t left on shore either, we have outfitted boats to accommodate paraplegic paddlers with the use of a transfer bench. Veterans with cognitive disabilities that would be at risk solo are paired in a multi seat craft.

Learning Objectives:
1.)Provide information about Team River Runner and the programs we offer for Veterans and their families.
2.)Demonstrate/showcase a hard shell kayak outfitted for an above the knee amputation and a transfer bench for paraplegic paddlers.
3.)Demonstrate/showcase a kayak paddle outfitted for paddlers with limited grip strength and arm amputations.

Marc Dervaes-
Retired Army Sergeant First Class; Team River Runner Rocky Mountain Regional Coordinator; American Canoe Association level 4 river kayaking instructor certified; Swift Water Rescue certified; Wilderness First Aid/CPR/AED certified.

Celiann Gonzales-
Air Force Academy graduate with a degree in Engineering; Degree in Outdoor Recreation; Team River Runner National Coordinator/Rocky Mountain chapter coordinator; American Canoe Association level 4 river kayaking instructor certified; Raft guide certified.

Richard Bloom-
Retired Army Staff Sergeant; Team River Runner Colorado Springs chapter coordinator; degree in outdoor education; American Canoe Association level 3 river kayaking instructor certified.

Michael Murphy-
Retired Army Sergeant; Visually Impaired paddler.

EDUCATING AND ADAPTIVE SPORTS – THE CONNECTION IN TEACHING KIDS 10:45-11:05 am
Patty O’Machel, Educating Outside the Lines

Session Description:
Creating comprehensive Disability Awareness programs in schools allows for the connection between adaptive sports and the education community. In this session we will address the current climate of education and the focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and more importantly how disability is portrayed and understood in children. We will discuss how changing the model of teaching about disability allows for true understanding, acceptance and inclusion. The program outlined pairs with adaptive sports organizations to teach children about disability and dispel myths about differences. The path towards changing perceptions and combating ableism, isolation and misunderstanding starts first in our schools.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Educating-Outside-the-Lines-2.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1) Outlining how adaptive sports organizations can partner with the education community and integrate programming
2) To increase understanding about disabilities and change perceptions, we need to start in our schools with children
3) Each one of our young people will have a friend, peer, coach, boss or coworker with a disability – bringing disability awareness programming into schools and partnering with adaptive sports will serve as lessons they will take with them throughout their lives

Patty O’Machel-
Patty has a unique perspective on disability and adaptive sports from the many hats she wears. As the parent of an athlete with cerebral palsy, her passions were founded. Her work as a social worker, advocate, educator and speaker around the subject of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion have broadened the scope to include all children in the messaging and understanding around disability. She is the founder of Educating Outside The Lines, an educational disability awareness program available nationwide to students from kindergarten through 8th grade.

LOOK BEYOND THE OBVIOUS 11:15-11:35 am
Meredyth Sauter & Meredith Tyree

Session Description:
Not all disabilities are visible – some are not immediately obvious like visual or hearing impairment. Living with a hidden disability can make daily life more challenging, but it can be difficult for others to recognize, acknowledge or understand the challenges faced. As adaptive sports professionals and experts, your mission should be to provide fully inclusive, equitable and accessible programming for all. Solely following the Paralympic guidelines or other international governing bodies limits opportunities for athlete’s participation. In addition to improving athletic fitness and performance, adaptive sports decrease isolation and depression and increase a sense of community and social connections.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Look-Beyond-the-Obvious.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1) Knowledge – List types of invisible/hidden disabilities.
2) Comprehension – Describe adaptive sports experience with simulated sensory impairment.
3) Application – Construct adaptive sports programming to include hidden/invisible disabilities.

Meredyth Sauter –
Meredyth Sauter is a lifelong athlete and coach. Meredyth has a bachelors degree in physical education from the University of Maryland, however she decided to pursue other career opportunities in corporate America working with the military, veterans and their families. She had the unique honor and privilege to work closely with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Department of Defense to assist in launching the first Warrior Games in 2010. Recently relocating back to Jacksonville Florida, she works closely with Brooks Rehabilitation‘s adaptive sports and recreation program.

Meredith Tyree –
Meredith Tyree has spent her entire life helping others. Originally from Atlanta Georgia, Meredith currently resides in Midlothian Virginia and works at the Midlothian YMCA as both a land and water fitness instructor. Her 20+ year career at the YMCA has afforded her health and wellness opportunities to work with active older adults, young children, and people with all levels of abilities. One of her favorite organizations in the Richmond metro area is Sportable, who makes sports inclusive and accessible for individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments.

RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN ACCESSIBILITY, PSYCHOLOGY, AND PERFORMANCE WITHIN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT: 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Illeana Rodriguez, I Design Access LLC
More Info Coming Soon!
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Accessibility-and-Built-Eviroment-copy.pdf

ADAPTIVE SPORTS EQUIPMENT: OPTIMIZE ATHLETE PERFORMANCE WITH EVALUATION, INNOVATION & ACCESS: 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm
Kendra Betz, MSPT, ATP

Session Description:
Adaptive sports equipment selection and configuration is a highly specialized field that requires collaboration amongst stakeholders to support para-athletes. This session highlights the athlete evaluation process, the key roles that many professionals play, and recommendations for those working with athletes to determine optimal equipment. Guidance will be shared to facilitate teamwork amongst clinicians, coaches, adaptive instructors, and manufacturers to build collaboration, competence, and confidence in supporting athletes to purse their own equipment. Innovative options for adaptive sports and recreation technologies to address unique athlete needs will be reviewed, and funding sources for personal adaptive sports equipment will be identified.

Learning Objectives:
1.)Participants will be able to describe three components of the athlete evaluation that require collaboration amongst clinicians and adaptive sports professionals.
2.)Participants will be able to identify at least three new state-of-the-art technology options available to support individuals with disabilities in adaptive sport & recreation.
3.)Participants will be able to outline three strategies to facilitate professional collaboration necessary to support athletes to pursue personal adaptive sports equipment.

Kendra Betz-
Kendra Betz is a Physical Therapist and RESNA credentialed Assistive Technology Professional who has enjoyed nearly 30 years with the VA specializing in complex injury rehabilitation, adaptive sports, assistive technology, and patient safety. Her extensive leadership in adaptive sports includes supporting novice to elite athletes with appropriate equipment and training, and providing education and mentorship for clinicians, coaches, instructors, and manufacturers. Kendra is a National Classifier for USA Paracycling and supports VA adaptive sports programs with classification and adaptive technology interventions. She holds an adjunct faculty position at the University of Pittsburgh and teaches regularly at national and international forums.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR OFF-ROAD HANDCYCLE: ADVANCING HUMAN ABILITY: 3:55-4:15pm
Mike Wehner, CTRS, ATP

Session Description:
In this session Mike Wehner CTRS, ATP, Manager of Therapeutic Recreation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab shares recent success in eliminating barriers to participation in off-road handcycling for athletes with tetraplegia. This was accomplished through a collaboration with Shirley Ryan AbilityLab engineer Frank Ursetta Engineer IV, Mechanical, Prosthesis Design & Control Laboratory Center for Bionic Medicine. The collaboration resulted in the development of a novel braking interface for users with tetraplegia using custom made and readily available components. This braking system allows users to keep their hands on hand pedals and brake using shoulder adduction. In addition, Mike will share a wireless shifting remote that he consulted on that enables cyclist to shift with alternate techniques given their current abilities.

Learning Objectives:
1.)Attendees will be able to identify a possible braking solution for cyclists with tetraplegia.
2.)Attendees will be able to identify 1 possible shifting solution for cyclists with tetraplegia.
3.)Attendees will be able to identify opportunities for further development of braking and shifting systems for cyclist with tetraplegia.

Mike Wehner-
Mike is a recreational therapist with over 18 years of experience, specializing in Spinal Cord Injury rehabilitation. Mike is currently the manager of the inpatient Therapeutic Recreation Department at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Mike received his Bachelors of Science at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. In addition, to his full time position at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab he also works as an independent contractor, providing mechanical support for the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab adaptive road & off road cycling programs and Dare-2-Tri para-triathlon club. He maintains a USA Cycling bicycle race mechanics license and certification through the Pro Bike Mechanics Association.

THE STIGMA OF LINER ODOR & HOW TO OVERCOME IT: 4:25pm-4:45pm
Elizabeth Stone

Session Description:
Elizabeth Stone, CEO of The Liner Wand presents how their standard of care in liner hygiene is helping amputees “say goodbye odor, hello freshness”. The stigma of odor from poor liner hygiene is a major factor in both physical and mental health issues amongst the amputee community. The Liner Wand is the only complete amputee hygiene system that is clinically proven to reduce skin irritation and odor. Elizabeth will be sharing the science behind the product and how the community leaders can partner with The Liner Wand to improve amputee hygiene.

Learning Objectives:
1.)How amputee community leaders can promote liner hygiene for better amputee outcomes.
2.)How The Liner Wand addresses the shortcomings of traditional methods of cleaning.
3.)What The Liner Wand’s 2022 Amputee Community survey revealed about the lives of amputees.

Elizabeth Stone-Elizabeth Stone, MBA, is an Entrepreneur and business manager and financial strategist. She is the President of Mint Leaf Media and co-founder of a successful 141,000 SF incubator, BioSci Labs. She works as the CEO at BI Medical and the business director of Materials Science Associates, overseeing business development and outsourced marketing management, as it became the fastest growing technology company in Rhode Island. She is a practiced marketer and online analyst with a background in social sciences and psychology. Elizabeth is experienced in managing business’s online presence and public relations for media outlets such as Providence Business News to the webdesign firm Trellon, LLC. She has managed media projects for both local businesses as well as high wealth individuals such as the publication and marketing of the autobiography of Timothy Mellon, the former Trustee of the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and current Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Pan Am Systems. She has translated academic technologies into commercially available products, driven private companies to record year after year profits, developed and executed multiple business plans and raised multiple rounds of financing from traditional banks, angel investors and through crowdsourcing.

CLOSING SESSION
5:00pm – 5:30pm

MEMBER COFFEE HOUR: SAFESPORT TRAINING, SPORT PROTECTION POLICY, AND MORE 7:30am-8:30am
We invite Move United member organization representatives to attend this coffee hour and meet/engage with Move United’s membership services team as well as network with other professionals in the industry. Organizations interested in the Move United membership network are welcome to attend as well.

MOVE THROUGH YOGA: HOW TO PROVIDE YOGA FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: 9:00-10:30am
Stefanie Gross, Move Through Yoga & Petrina Gorny

Session Description:
This presentation/workshop is for educators (special education, physical education, adapted physical education), coaches, and any other movers and shakers who want to broaden their knowledge of adaptive yoga. Everyone deserves a chance to lessen their stress and tension carried (both in mind and body) over the course of a day, and often, the fear of knowing how to safely coach students with disabilities creates an impediment for access to wellness opportunities. In this session, participants will participate in several interactive movement and discussion based activities that break down barriers and build bridges to teaching proprioception for all.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Slides-https://www.canva.com/design/DAE_2IVHJu4/8dUcd_qCA16YFiA0awmtmw/view?utm_content=DAE_2IVHJu4&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=viewer

Learning Objectives:
1.)Describe Move Through Yoga and ways to integrate programming in their particular space
2.)Evaluate the diverse physical needs of students (as it applies to adaptive yoga)
3.)Apply concepts and mechanics of Move Through Yoga and differentiate mainstream yoga poses to adaptive poses

Stefanie Gross-
Stefanie is a champion for education reform, and passionate about providing access to yoga for all. Put the two of them together and you have a veteran yoga professional (since 2008) who takes teaching teachers, and practitioners of all levels very seriously. Stefanie’s knowledge of adaptive yoga allows for all bodies to feel welcome and safe in her classes. Stefanie, a Lululemon Athletica Legacy Ambassador, found Move Through Yoga ™, a non-profit that adaptive yoga and wellness programming to students during their school day. Move Through Yoga (MTY) aims to graduate mind-body fit students through a daily movement practice, and social-emotional education which always meets physical education Standards. Through her innovative curriculum design, and unique approach to teaching school students, faculty and administrators, Stefanie has introduced yoga to well over 15,000 students since the program’s inception. Pulling from her roots as a former AP English Teacher, and Guidance Counselor, Stefanie thoroughly enjoys leading trainings and workshops for all practitioners and fellow professionals. Currently, she is most proud of MTY’s current roll out of adaptive yoga for students with physical and cognitive disabilities in Jefferson County School District and Denver Public Schools.

ADVANCING ACCESSIBILITY IN PADDLE SPORTS: 10:45-11:45am
Crystal Skahan

Session Description:
The American Canoe Association is committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion through paddle sports. This session outlines the ACA Universal Paddling curriculum offerings, and information on becoming an Instructor Trainer to advance education opportunities. Join in the conversation and discuss strategies and successes that have enhanced DEI through your paddle sport programs, and share your recommendations for the ACA to continue advancing DEI in paddle sports.

Learning Objectives:
1.)Attendees will be able to define the Universal Paddling curriculum offered by the American Canoe Association.
2.)Attendees will be able to define the process for becoming an Instructor Trainer to expand curriculum offerings.
3.)Attendees will identify 2 strategies to improve paddle sport information, curriculum and/or accessibility systems.

Crystal Skahan-
Crystal Skahan is the Education and Training Director at Northeast Passage, an Adapted Sport and Recreation Therapy program of the University of New Hampshire. Crystal has 20+ years experience facilitating adaptive watersport programs, and coordinates volunteer and instructor training opportunities to enhance inclusion and recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Crystal currently serves as the Chair of the Universal Paddling Committee of the American Canoe Association.

FROM GRASSROOTS TO BLUE CARPETS: NAVIGATING THE PARATRIATHLON PIPELINE: CANCELED  1:15-2:15 pm
Dan Tun, Dare2Tri

Session Description:
Swim, Bike, Run. Three activities that many of us naturally participated in as kids. Combine all three and you have one of the most inclusive sports for people of all abilities. In this session, we will explain some of the misconceptions of triathlon, walk through the paratriathlon pipeline for a recreational or competitive athlete, and navigate the many ways an individual can train and race in their community alongside their peers.

Learning Objectives:
1.)How to reasonably afford and train for a sport that consists of 3 disciplines (swim, bike, run).
2.)Understanding the paratriathlon pipeline for youth and adults at the recreational (local) and competitive (national/international) levels.
3.)How to train and race a triathlon with or without a local adaptive sports organization.

Dan Tun:
Dan Tun has worked in adaptive sports for 10+ years and is the Co-founder/Program Director for the Chicago-based non-profit, Dare2tri. He has completed multiple triathlons (from Sprint to Ironman distance), road and trail running races, and has guided numerous runners and triathletes with disabilities as they completed various races across the Chicago area. His coaching certifications include: USA Triathlon Level 2 Paratriathlon, RRCA (Road Runners Club of America) and XPT (Extreme Performance Training)

CONQUERING ABLEISM USING SPORT ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES: 3:15-4:45pm
Joe Walsh, Adaptive Sports New England, Ted Fay, University of Massachusetts, Andrea Woodson-Smith, North Carolina Central University, Cathy MacDonald, & Erik Robeznieks

Session Description:
The traditional college experience is a time of rapid growth and social development for society’s next generation of leaders. Exposure to adaptive and inclusive sports during this time can help inoculate students against ableism for the rest of their lives. This interactive session will explore how programs on several college campuses have influenced leaders on and off campus to create cultural change that leads to athletic and social inclusion.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/How-Adaptive-and-Inclusive-Sports-on-College-Campuses-Can-Help-Socialize-and-Inform-the-Next-Generation-of-Leaders-in-Challenging-Ableism.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.)Develop an open and inclusive mindset on providing equitable sporting opportunities for student-athletes with disabilities at the collegiate level.
2.)Explore how community-based organizations can effectively collaborate with students, faculty, staff, and administrators to initiate and sustain a student-involved adaptive and inclusive sports program on and off campus.
3.)Create strategies to influence collegiate and community leaders who have the authority and purview to change campus culture to become more inclusive of students who have a disability.

Joe Walsh (MEd, MS)–
Joe Walsh is the founder and President of Adaptive Sports New England, a Boston-based nonprofit that designs and implements Para sports programs for youth and adults with a visual or mobility impairment. A two-time Paralympian in cross country skiing, Joe spent 10 years in higher education positions before moving to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee where he served as Director and then Managing Director of Paralympics. Joe also served as Vice President of the International Blind Sports Federation from 2013-2017 and is currently on the Board of Directors of Move United.

Ted Fay (PhD)-
Dr. Fay is recognized as a leading national and international activist, advocate, and scholar on the integration and inclusion of athletes with disabilities into mainstream sport. Involved in the Paralympic movement for over 40 years, he served in multiple capacities related primarily to Para Nordic skiing from 1980 until 2010 and most recently as a Board member of Adaptive Sports New England. Professor Emeritus of Sport Management at the SUNY Cortland, Fay currently serves as a Co – Director of the Laboratory for Inclusion & Diversity in Sport at the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst.

Andrea Woodson-Smith (PhD)-
Ãndrea Woodson-Smith, is a Professor at North Carolina Central University in the Department of Kinesiology and Recreation Administration. She is the Graduate Program Director and Coordinator for Adapted Sports Science and Recreation. Dr. Woodson-Smith currently serves on the NWBA Board of Directors Athlete Advisory Council, Vice Chair and Women’s Growth and Diversity Committee, Chair and other committees. She also is a member of Move United’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force. She serves as a Sports Envoy for the U.S. Department of State and on the Institute of Social Justice and Sport Play Maker of the Month Committee.

Cathy MacDonald (PhD)-
Cathy MacDonald is a Professor in the Department of Physical Education at the State University of New York, Cortland. She received a M.Ed. from the University of Virginia and a Ph.D. from McGill University. Cathy teaches assessment and adapted physical education at the undergraduate and graduate levels. She has also authored several articles addressing best practices in physical education and physical activity promotion for individuals with a disability.

Erik Robeznieks (MBA)–
Erik is the Assistant Director of University of Michigan Adaptive Sports & Fitness. ASF aims to increase awareness, knowledge, access, and participation in adaptive sports and fitness among people with and without disabilities. Previously Erik worked at Wheelchair Basketball Canada managing national team operations. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from York University and his Master of Business Administration from Ryerson University. Erik’s thesis, “Examining the Potential Inclusion of Adaptive Sport in the NCAA,” addresses strategies to support the growth of collegiate adaptive sport. Erik competes in wheelchair basketball and is a 2019 Canada Games silver medalist.

CLOSING SESSION
5:00pm – 5:30pm

MEMBER COFFEE HOUR: SAFESPORT TRAINING, SPORT PROTECTION POLICY, AND MORE 7:30am-8:30am
We invite Move United member organization representatives to attend this coffee hour and meet/engage with Move United’s membership services team as well as network with other professionals in the industry. Organizations interested in the Move United membership network are welcome to attend as well.

EXPANDING YOUR REACH IN CONFRONTING ABLEISM: AN OPEN CONVERSATION: 9:00am-10:00am
Kari Miller-Ortiz, Kevin Brousard, Tim Brown, & Jacob Tyree

Session Description:
This session is a Panel guided open conversation to discuss topics surrounding ableism in adaptive sport. The session is meant for the Audience to gain and offer differing perspectives, and experiences, and identify opportunities to grow within the space.

Learning Objectives:
1.) Recognize personal bias.
2.) Identifying ableism
3.) How to confront change

Kari Miller Ortiz-
Is an Army veteran and three-time Paralympic medalist who has coached, lobbied for, and created adaptive programs across the country. Beyond her drive for empowering others through Adaptive sports, she has had the opportunity to expand upon her passions for Equity in hiring practices as a member of Maximus’ DEI design committee and served as a Committee lead for the National Association for College Employers (NACE) People of Color. Currently, Kari uses her combined passions and experience as the current Director of People and Culture at Move United.

Kevin Brousard-
Born with a rare retinal disorder, Kevin has been legally blind since as far back as he can remember. The target of bullying and ridicule as a child due to his vision led him down a dark road of depression and anxiety. Eventually, Kevin found an outlet through the world of adaptive sports. In track and field, Kevin has amassed 3 world titles, 3 Pan American titles and the US Paralympic record in the discus. He also competed internationally for the USA Judo Paralympic team for 3 years. Kevin currently serves as the Programs and Finance Director for the US Association of Blind Athletes. His experience with childhood bullying has led Kevin to become a mental health advocate and public speaker

Tim Brown-
Timothy Brown joined Move United in September 2020 as a Marketing and Communications Intern, where he specializes in photography and digital asset management. Tim is a 10-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, serving as a Field Radio Operator and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician before being wounded by an Improvised Explosive Device in February 2011. While rehabilitating at Walter Reed Bethesda, Tim was introduced to adaptive sports at The Hartford Ski Spectacular 2011. Soon after, he fell in love with handcycling, going on to complete Race Across America, Ride the Rockies, and numerous marathons and weeklong tours. Since relocating to Houston in 2021, he has taken up playing murderball with the TIRR Texans.

Jacob Tyree-
Joining the Move United team in 2022 as our Training Coordinator, Jacob oversees the management of VA Adaptive Sports Training Grant funded programs. He works closely with network and industry partners to elevate training opportunities for adaptive sport providers as well as support various education projects and initiatives. Jacob brings with him a vast amount of experience in the adaptive sport space as an athlete, coach, and sport professional. Jacob played collegiate wheelchair basketball at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a concentration in Technology. He has international coaching experience in Japan as well as Peru, and founded the Roanoke Stars Wheelchair Basketball program in Virginia. In his recreational time Jacob enjoys bonsai, gardening, video games, and competing in wheelchair basketball and tennis events.

BRAZILIAN PARALYMPIC DEVELOPMENT: FROM INITIATION TO HIGH PERFORMANCE: 10:10am-10:30am
Vinicius Denardin Cardoso

Session Description:
This session seeks to describe and discuss the actions to support Paralympic sport that contribute to Brazil being considered one of the emerging Paralympic powers on the international scene. Sports initiation programs and projects that are essential for discovering new generations of Paralympic athletes in the country will be explored.

Slides-https://moveunitedsport.org/app/uploads/2022/05/Brazilian-Paralympic-Move-United-2022.pdf

Learning Objectives:
1.) Main supports: Financial, structural, media and human resources
2.) Sports initiation programs and projects for people with disabilities
3.) Permanence in high performance sport.

Vinicius Denardin-
Vinícius are Doctor in Paralympic Sports from Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Professor at State University of Roraima, North of Brazil, Vinícius have been working with sports for people with disabilities more than 15 years. In academic research and sports practice projects. He is currently Technical Coordinator of the Paralympic Reference Center of Roraima, of the Brazilian Paralympic Committee (BPC) and member of Paralympic Brazilian Academy, also is passionate about Paralympic sport and the cause of people with disabilities.

SYSTEMATIC SYMPATHY: CHANGING STEREOTYPES AND STIGMAS OF ADAPTIVE ATHLETICS: 10:45-11:05am
Adam Lucio, Contigo Coaching Solutions & Anpassa Project

Session Description:
This session will focus on breaking down the stereotypes and stigmas of adaptive athletes and how they have been mis-portrayed and underrepresented in the media for decades. Adam will relive some of his own personal experiences growing up as an adaptive athlete and share insight on how we can help revolutionize this generations perception on wheelchair sports.

Learning Objectives:
1.) Common Misconceptions: Special Olympics vs Paralympics, Representation in the Media, Personal Experiences.
2.) Wheelchairs are not impediments, they’re the tools we use to perform.
3.) The true spirit of an athlete sees beyond physical limitations.

Adam Lucio-
At the fragile age of five months, Adam Lucio was in a car accident his hometown in Texas, which confined him to a wheelchair. However, “confined” is not how you would describe his life. He has learned to use his story as a tool to teach and speak about his experiences, inspiring others to live a better quality of life despite life’s obstacles and hardships. Adam is a business owner, entrepreneur, tennis coach, and proud father. He is also an aspiring Para triathlete as well as a member of the NWBA Basketball League and USTA Wheelchair circuit.

NEVER HAVE A SHORTAGE OF MONEY AGAIN: 11:15-11:35 am
Ryan Wilson

Session Description:
For a majority of adaptive athletes and organizations, funds are lacking. But the reality is, in this world of technology, you have more resources now than ever to blow past your goals. Ryan Wilson shares relatable and actionable tips of how he grew his company to a nationwide success in one year, and how you can do the same for those you serve.

Learning Objective:
1.) Relationships
2.) Marketing
3.) Monetization

Ryan Wilson-
Ryan Wilson is the director of Team Trust Productions, a disability led production company that puts disability on the map. Wilson also works for the International Paralympic Committee and United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and he one year after graduating college, produced a film for the Big Ten Network.

STRATEGIES AROUND ATHLETE ADVOCACY: 1:15pm-2:15pm
David De Notaris

Session Description:
David DeNotaris is a 3X National and 2X International drug-free power lifting champion, speaker, author, business consultant and he also happens to be totally blind… Come and learn how to transform obstacles into opportunities through advocacy, storytelling and goal setting!

David De Notaris:
David J. De Notaris has held leadership roles for the NJ Department of Human Services, NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the PA Department of Labor & Industry Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, most recently serving as their Executive Director with 1200 Professional staff, $200 M yearly budgets, assisting over 10000 individuals with disabilities find competitive integrated employment.

David has served as a job developer, job coach, coordinator of assistive technology and appointed to several boards and committees including the NJ State Rehabilitation Council and the workforce investment board chairing the literacy committee.

David also served for 2-years as president of his national professional organization, the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind NCSAB.

Currently David is the Chief Innovation Officer for Sky’s the Limit Communications & Associates a training firm that deliver resilience, leadership and diversity trainings for schools/universities, Fortune 500 Companies, state agencies and associations nationally.

ROOTED IN ABLEISM: UNCOVERING OUR INDIVIDUAL AND COLLECTIVE ABLEISM TO TRANSFORM OURSELVES AND OUR COMMUNITY – Sponsored by Lakeshore Foundation: 3:15-4:45pm
Mary Allison Cook, Lakeshore Foundation & USOPC Patty Cisneros Prevo, University of Wisconsin, & Christina Ripp Schwab, University of Wisconsin

Session Description:
Ableism is engrained in each and every one of us – even disabled people and people with disabilities. Join four Paralympic gold medalists and professionals working in the disability space for a candid conversation about how they came to recognize their own ableism and internalized ableism and how it transformed their identities, personal narratives, and professional careers.
*This session is CE pre-approved by NCTRC

Learning Objectives:
1.)Attendees will learn about disability culture topics like identity, disability models and narratives and how ableism and internalized ableism has shaped the culture of Para sport.
2.)Attendees will learn about common forms of ableism in the Para and adapted sport community – from language to narrative development to coaching.
3.)Attendees will learn ways we can identify, analyze, and alter the way we approach ableism and disability identity as disabled individuals, allies and the Para sport community.

Mary Allison Milford Cook-
is a two-time Paralympian (women’s wheelchair basketball) and the Associate Director of Communications at Lakeshore Foundation, a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site and community organization located in Birmingham, AL focused on providing physical activity, research and advocacy opportunities for people with disabilities. Cook will share how recognizing her own internalized ableism and embracing her disability identity changed the way she communicates about disability. She will also provide tools on how we can identify long-established ableist narratives around disability and transform them to be more inclusive and create social change.

Patty Cisneros Prevo-
is a three-time Paralympian (women’s wheelchair basketball) with an accomplished background in education. As a former elementary school teacher, current children’s book author, and current Manager for Diversity & Inclusion for the Undergraduate Program at the University of Wisconsin School of Business, Cisneros Prevo is passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion and making sure disability is included in those conversations. She will share how discovering ableism while writing a book about disabled athletes altered her approach. She will also discuss the intersections between her work in diversity and inclusion and her identities as a Mexican-American and disabled woman.

Christina Ripp Schwab-
is a five-time Paralympian (women’s wheelchair basketball and track) and current Head Coach of the U.S. Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball Team and University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team. As a coach with a passion for athlete development, Schwab will share how identifying her own ableism and embracing her disability identity changed the way she approaches coaching and influenced her master’s degree in higher education leadership and athletic administration.

CLOSING SESSION
5:00pm – 5:30pm