ACB Media Calendar

This event sold out as of 6/8/2025. When we think about technology, we often think about expensive devices that are priced well beyond our ability to pay. Recently, however, less expensive solutions have made the tech world more reachable for everyone. Tyson Ernst, an access technology instructor with the Orientation and Training Center in Seattle, WA, will help us share information about more affordable options for everyday tasks at home, at work and at play.

Explore the 80-year history and mission of the Blinded Veterans Association, where blinded veterans support one another. Engage with our Board of Directors and staff to learn about our diverse membership, including blind and low vision veterans. Discover eligibility criteria and how we help members access the benefits they’ve earned. Gain insights into our advocacy efforts for the rights of blind and low vision veterans. Join us to understand the impactful work of BVA and how you can be part of our empowering community by joining the BVA Auxiliary, a group of friends and family who support BVA.

Join ACB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, Claire Stanley, as she provides a look at 2025 federal legislation of concern to people with vision loss. She will cover not only those items in which ACB has been involved, but other legislative issues of concern to people with vision loss. Also, we urge attendees who are working on current legislation in their states to report on their progress. Presenter: Claire Stanley, ACB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, Alexandria, VA. Facilitator: Jeff Thom, ACB Advocacy Steering Committee, Sacramento, CA.

The nominations have been counted and it’s time to vote for the best audio description of the last year. Come experience clips of each nominated film and series, and then cast your vote during the convention or when you get home for the two you like most. Learn more about the awards at adawardsgala.org.

Join internationally acclaimed blind artist John Bramblitt for an inspiring session where he will share the remarkable story of his career. Hear how he overcame the loss of his sight to become a celebrated muralist, speaker, and author. Through heartfelt storytelling and personal insights, he’ll explore themes of creativity, resilience, and inclusion. The session will also feature a live painting demonstration, offering a unique look into John’s innovative techniques. Don’t miss the opportunity to ask questions during the Q and A at the end.

AAVL examines specialized services for blind or low vision seniors in Texas and look more generally at innovative ways to bridge the enormous level of unmet needs in our nation for these services. What lessons can we learn from the Texas experience and what can we do to enhance services for our community. Facilitator: Jeff Thom, Immediate Past President, Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss, Sacramento CA. Presenters: Juanita Barker, Director of Blind Services, Texas Workforce Commission Dallas TX; Stacy Fuller, Vice-President Rehabilitation Services, Envision Inc.TX. Dallas TX; Hannah Christenson, Director Community Services, Envision Inc. TX. Dallas TX.

Discover with AAVIA how leveraging AI can transform your daily life and professional journey, helping you achieve greater efficiency, productivity, and success in both personal and legal career pursuits. Presenter: Adal Ibrar, London, England

This session will highlight the Business Enterprise Program in Texas so participants will learn how they train vendors, the types of facilities they have in the program, and some statistics of relevance: gross sales, number of facilities, number of vendors, etc. They will also learn how blind persons can become a vendor in the state.Presenters: Karla Martinez, Training and Development Specialist, Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center, Austin, TX; Crawford J. Odom, BET Business Consultant – District 2, Business Enterprise of Texas – Texas Workforce Commission, Fort Worth, TX and others

Hear from a lawyer with decades of experience about the host of matters affecting immigration into the U.S. Presenter: Oliver J. Langstadt, Miami, Florida Co-sponsored by AAVIA and IRC

Did you know that everyone has a Love Language, the way they best give and receive love? Whether in friendships, family, professional or personal relationships understanding the Five Love Languages can transform how we connect with those around us. Join us for an engaging and interactive event where we’ll explore the Five Love Languages: Affirmation, Acts of Service, Quality Time, Physical Touch, and Gifts. We’ll break down what each Love Language means, how they show up in daily life, and how simply learning someone’s Love Language can help you build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Plus, hear from individuals who will share how their Love Languages help to shape the way they connect with others. Sponsored by: ACB Next Generation Presenters: Terrilynn Higashi, Ewa Beach HI; Amanda Selm, Louisville KY.