ACB Media Calendar

Speaker Piper Hudson will share information on tactile art making, multisensory installations, descriptive audio frameworks, and collaborative storytelling. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Join ACB Students for an engaging and practical conversation on how artificial intelligence is transforming accessibility, education, and opportunities for blind students. This session will demystify how AI works, explore its real benefits and risks, and share actionable strategies students can use right now to learn, create, and lead with confidence. Featuring special guests Ming Fang, faculty member at Florida International University, and Prashant Rajpal, author of Ethical AI Journey Implementing Responsible AI within Real Organizations, the discussion will highlight responsible AI use, ethical considerations, and real-world applications that empower blind students to shape the future rather than fear it. Participants can expect practical tips, real examples, and an open conversation designed to build confidence, awareness, and innovation. Presenters: Ricardo Salazar, Kit Rajpal, Dr. Ming Fang and Prashant Rajpal Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Be part of a conversation with BITS about appliances and accessibility, and why inclusive design must extend into every part of daily life. Our presentation will highlight the launch of the Appliance Portal, efforts to connect with the community through YouTube, and the importance of bringing greater awareness to vendors, advocates, and consumers alike. By sharing experiences, building visibility, and speaking with a stronger collective voice, we can help drive meaningful progress in accessibility and advocacy. Presenters: Larry-Watkinson, Technology Project Manager, Olympia, WA; Jeff Bishop, President – Blind Information Technology Solutions (BITS), Application Developer, Tucson, AZ; Lucia Greco, Accessibility Evangelist, Berkeley, CA Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Join us as three Employment Committee members share their experiences after losing (or nearly losing) their jobs in January 2026. Co-sponsored by the Employment Committee, ACB Students and ACB Next Generation Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

A brief discussion of amateur digital communication modes and a presentation on the SharkRF M1KE radioless digital hotspot. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Many of us carry smartphones or wearable devices with built-in cameras, but if you are blind or visually impaired, using them may feel unfamiliar or even intimidating. This BITS session is designed for smart device beginners or intermediate users and will start with the basics of how to take photos using accessible features. We will explore simple techniques to help you understand what is in your pictures using description tools and apps. By the end, you’ll feel more confident capturing and sharing moments in ways that work for you. Presenters: Kelly Ford, Software Developer, Madison, WI; Ann McKay-Bacon, Teacher Consultant for the Blind and Vision Impaired, Detroit, MI Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Come learn about the Next Generation of broadcast television which is a combination of over-the-air broadcast and internet technology. It will have enhanced picture, sound, and interactive capability, as well as enhanced accessibility. Learn from industry experts and consumers what you need to know to be ready for the future of television. Moderator: Carl Richardson, Co-Chair, ACB Audio Description Project, Brighton, MA Panelists: Matt Kaplowitz, President, Bridge Multimedia, New York, NY; Renee Arrington-Johnson, ADP Steering Committee Member, Cleveland, OH; Louis Johnson IV, MBA, PMP, CPBE, Cleveland, OH; Timothy Wynn, ADP Media Subcommittee Member, Arlington, VA Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Comedy will be explored in the 20 and 21st centuries and the impact it has had on the culture. The contributions of Jewish writers and performers, we will delve into stand-up, skits, television, comedy and movies. Join us for an entertaining and informative presentation. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Bookshare is the world’s largest accessible library of published copyrighted books. It transforms the way individuals with print disabilities read and learn. Learn how to navigate the platform, download books in multiple accessible formats, and use popular reading tools to create a personalized reading experience. Gain practical skills and learn how you can use Bookshare in school, your career, and everyday life. You will also get a preview of our newest AI-powered tool called Bookshare Plus, which converts non-copyrighted materials into accessible formats that can be accessed in the Bookshare platform. Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, service provider, or reader, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to expand access, promote independence, and unlock a world of learning possibilities. Presenter: Mario Oliveros, Director of Growth, Palo Alto, CA; marioo@benetech.org; 510-479-5998 Facilitated by Brian Charlson, Past President, Library Users of America, Watertown, MA Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

One out of every three adults in the United States is living with pre-diabetes and 50% of those people over age 65 have this condition. It is estimated that 90% of these people do not know it. There is a common misconception that a person can do very little at this point to avoid or delay progression to a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. Brenda Jagatic BSCN, RN, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist will be joining us to share information about small behavior changes that can have a huge impact on slowing or preventing the progression of this disease. The hints that she will be sharing regarding living a healthier lifestyle are also very beneficial for people who already have a diagnosis of diabetes or are just wanting to lead a more healthy life. We will also have two members of our group sharing their personal experiences with altering the course of their diabetes. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Are you frustrated when you watch a movie or TV show that doesn’t have audio description when you know it did before in the cinema? Come learn about the complexity of the life of an audio description file covering topics including the journey of the file through the broadcast pipeline, copyright issues, file format conflicts and much more. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

This is a thought provoking exploration of book banning, examining its definition, history, and growing impact on access to information. Learn from meaningful discussions that challenge us to consider who decides what content is appropriate and how those decisions shape education, libraries, and society. The presentation also brings critical attention to equity, highlighting how restrictions disproportionately affect blind and low vision readers and others who already face barriers to access. Gain a deeper understanding of intellectual freedom and practical ways to advocate for inclusive, accessible, and diverse collections. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

On January 7, 2025, the Eaton Fire began, ultimately destroying 9,000 homes and buildings including the homes of five members of the Pasadena Host Lions Club. Donna and Mitch Pomerantz, Club Secretary and President respectively, will talk about their involvement in organizing the Club’s response in assisting the Altadena, Northern Pasadena, and Sierra Madre communities to recover. A real-life story of action and leadership. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127

Join Low Vision Alliance with Carlos L. Grandela, OD, FAAO Optometrist from Mesa, AZ for an informative session on the importance of a low vision evaluation, what it is, and why you should have one. There will be time for questions. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127