Click “Launch Event” to identify the ACB Media stream for each event.
Events in July 2026
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Exploring AI Tools Opportunities and Risks for Blind Students and BEYOND Exploring AI Tools Opportunities and Risks for Blind Students and BEYOND
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July 16, 2026Join 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
Moving Forward from Job Loss Moving Forward from Job Loss
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July 16, 2026Join 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
Amateur Digital Communications and the SharkRF M1KE Radioless Hotspot Amateur Digital Communications and the SharkRF M1KE Radioless Hotspot
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July 16, 2026A 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
LUA Presents Unlocking Independence in Reading with Bookshare LUA Presents Unlocking Independence in Reading with Bookshare
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July 16, 2026Bookshare 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
LVA Presents the Importance of a Low Vision Evaluation LVA Presents the Importance of a Low Vision Evaluation
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July 16, 2026Join 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
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Whats new with the Monarch Whats new with the Monarch
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July 17, 2026Come learn with BITS about the Monarch multi-line Braille display from the American Printing House for the Blind. Discover all about tactile graphics, Monarch apps, and the Monarch RISE project. Presenters: Katie Frederick, Digital Engagement and Accessibility Specialist, Monarch Projects, American Printing House for the Blind (APH), Worthington, OH; Jennifer Wenzel, Technology Product Specialist, APH, Louisville, KY Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Workplace Etiquette Workplace Etiquette
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July 17, 2026Explore workplace etiquette through the lense of individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Participants will gain insight into unspoken office norms from navigating shared spaces and introductions to handling meetings, social cues, and common misconceptions. Co-sponsored by ACBS, ACBNG, and ACB Employment Committee Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Microsoft Narrator A Tool for Making the Transition from Low Vision to No Vision Microsoft Narrator A Tool for Making the Transition from Low Vision to No Vision
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July 17, 2026If using screen magnification and a mouse with your Windows PC is no longer working effectively for you due to ongoing vision loss, there is an available alternative. Microsoft Narrator, a free screen reader built into the Windows operating system, can enable you to read the contents displayed on your computer’s screen, as well as hear the text in documents, email, and webpages, as well as any other content on your computer screen. In this BITS presentation, we will show you how to put this powerful tool to work for you, and help you maintain your independence, as your vision continues to transition from low vision to no vision. Presenters: Brad Snyder, Assistive Technology Specialist, Dallas, TX; Myrna Votta, Instructor of Assistive Technology, New York Metropolitan Area Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Finding your Driverless Car Finding your Driverless Car
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July 17, 2026Driverless ride share services are becoming more common, on one hand, since there is no driver in these cars, there’s no discrimination! However, driverless ridshare services can pose some challenges for blind or low vision individuals. For instance, how to find the car if there is no driver to communicate with? Come and hear from fellow blind people who have found tips and tricks to find their car even when there is no driver. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
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Innovations in Performing Arts Access Innovations in Performing Arts Access
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July 18, 2026This session will share new and innovative practices in performing arts accessibility with audio description. Join us to learn strategies for evolving practices and what can be possible in live performing arts venues. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Accessible Blogging with Substack Accessible Blogging with Substack
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July 18, 2026Substack is an accessible web-based platform designed to allow you to unleash your imagination for creative writing. In this BITS presentation, we will explore this exciting platform, and hear from 3 users who will share their experiences using Substack as a creative way to reach a wide audience. Presenters: Tyson Ernst, Access Technology Educator, Washington State Department of Services for the Blind, Seattle, WA; Kaila Allen, Mindfulness, Wellness, & Somatic Coach, Creative Guidance LLC, Mesa, AZ; Taylor Arndt, Mobil Applications Developer, Techopolis Online Solutions, Austin, TX Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
What Does It Take To Be An Entrepreneur What Does It Take To Be An Entrepreneur
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July 18, 2026Panelists will talk about what was required for them to start their different types of businesses and answer questions from the audience. Speakers: Kimberly Ruf, Mary Kay Inc., Dayton, OH; Edward Cohen, EZ2 See Products, Rochester, MN; Jeremy Johansen, Farmer Host, San Leandro, CA Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
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Committee 101 From Onboarding to Outstanding Committee 101 From Onboarding to Outstanding
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July 25, 2026Have you ever wondered how to become an emerging leader? How more responsible positions become open to newer members? Join us to explore what it takes to become a successful committee team member, and grow into your aspiration from your chapter, to your affiliate, to your national organization. Sponsored by the Berl Colley Leadership Training Committee Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Mills 3Estate Planning Estate Planning
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July 25, 2026Estate planning made easy! Learn about the free service ACB is offering for our members and friends to create a will, a living will and a power of attorney. Join the ACB Resource Development team for the informative discussion on estate planning with a licensed attorney. Presenters: Caitlin Lee, ACB Resource Development Officer, Alexandria VA; Dan Spoone, ACB Director of Operations, Key West, FL Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Mills 3I Didn’t See This Coming I Didn’t See This Coming
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July 25, 2026The challenges of life often require resilience, courage and a new way of thinking. This session will feature four individuals who have conquered unexpected circumstances while coping with vision loss. Sponsored by the ACB Mental Health and Wellness Committee Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
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Get Up and Get Moving with the Apple Watch Get Up and Get Moving with the Apple Watch
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July 26, 2026Join the Get Up and Get Moving Committee and Blind Information Technology Solutions for this informative session on using the Apple Watch to help you Get Up and Get Moving. We will show how you can track your workouts, keep track of Health and Activity data, and more. We will also take a look at the Welltory companion app and discuss how this app can help tie it all together for greater understanding of your health and wellness. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Sterling 3Reflections on the 36th Anniversary of the ADA Reflections on the 36th Anniversary of the ADA
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July 26, 2026On the ADA’s 36th birthday, the ACB Advocacy Steering Committee and the American Association of Visually Impaired Attorneys present a panel that will reflect upon ADA successes and failures from a blindness community perspective. In addition, the panel will discuss current and potential political and legal risks to the ADA and the possible impact of AI on our ADA rights. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Mills 3Supreme Court Term in Review Supreme Court Term in Review
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July 26, 2026Find out from a pre-recorded presentation by a St. Mary’s University Law School professor about the significant decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court in its 2025-26 term and its work generally. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Sterling 3What Does the New ERA Mean for Rehabilitation A Rehab Task Force Discussion What Does the New ERA Mean for Rehabilitation A Rehab Task Force Discussion
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July 26, 2026Has the Rehabilitation Services Administration moved to the Department of Labor? Did the Older Independent Blind Program move with it? What does it all mean to service providers and clients? And where do we go from here? We’ll take a look from the national, state, and local points of view. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
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What is Late and Great in Managing Type I and Type II Diabetes What is Late and Great in Managing Type I and Type II Diabetes
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July 27, 2026Cleveland based diabetes professionals will discuss the latest changes/recommendations in managing Type I and Type II diabetes. So, come prepared to learn how to best manage your disease with confidence and independence! Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Sterling 3Small Beginnings and the History of Growth in St Louis Small Beginnings and the History of Growth in St Louis
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July 27, 2026Part 1 of a 2-part series presented by the Multi-Cultural Affairs Committee that traces the growth and development of the Black and Indigenous communities in St. Louis. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Mills 3Health Knowledge Accessibility and Empowerment Navigating HIV Awareness with Confidence Health Knowledge Accessibility and Empowerment Navigating HIV Awareness with Confidence
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July 27, 2026This session offered by ACBS is a safe and informative space to explore HIV awareness, sexual and reproductive health, accessibility, and personal empowerment. Participants will receive clear, science-based information that helps reduce stigma, build confidence, and support informed decision-making about health and well-being. Led by Tia Irish, Director of Pozitive Eyes, and Alecia Tramel-McIntyre, founder of Positive People Network Inc. and a nationally recognized advocate living with HIV for more than 30 years, the session combines professional expertise with lived experience. Attendees will gain practical knowledge about accessing healthcare resources, understanding their rights, and advocating for their needs with confidence and dignity. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
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Turning Diabetes Stigma Into Strength Turning Diabetes Stigma Into Strength
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July 28, 2026Join us to listen to Shae Puckett from Diatribe share how Diatribe is working hard to build a world where people with diabetes are seen with dignity, approached with curiosity instead of judgement, and welcomed with compassion. Stigma can make people feel isolated and misunderstood. Have you ever encountered any of the following situations which are exampels of diabetes stigma? People who assume that you caused your own diabetes, people telling you that you should not be eating what you are eating, people telling you that you should perform tasks to manage your diabetes, such as testing your blood glucose or taking insulin only in private, people who assume that you cannot do certain jobs because you have diabetes. In this presentation, we will discuss how, along with Diatribe and others, we can advocate for better understanding, acceptance and support of people who have diabetes. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Sterling 3Telecommunications Panel Telecommunications Panel
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July 28, 2026Join representatives from leading telecommunications companies for a discussion on the products, services, and accessibility features designed to support people who are blind or have low vision. Panelists will share information about accessible mobile devices, customer support options, emergency communications, assistive technologies, and emerging innovations that promote independence and connectivity. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about available resources, ask questions, and provide feedback directly to industry leaders working to improve accessibility in telecommunications. Panelists: AT&T: Shaunta M. Aviles will discuss AT&T’s commitment to advancing inclusive technology that helps customers who are blind or have low vision stay connected, independent, and informed through accessible services, innovation, and continued partnership. National Association of Broadcasters: Larry Walke will discuss recent policy changes regarding access to video programming on television, including the expansion of audio description to additional television markets and more live programming, as well as technical developments like AI-powered audio description and ATSC 3.0 NextGen Television that have the potential to enhance access to video programming for persons who are blind or low vision. T-Mobile: Shellie Blakeney will discuss T-Mobile’s commitment to accessibility and include a discussion about the company’s programs and initiatives to support its customers, including network advancements, customer service/rate plans and strategic partnerships that help advance the company’s objectives in the accessibility space. Verizon: Zach Bastian will review Verizon’s customer services that notably accommodate persons who are blind or have other disabilities. He will specifically highlight new and exciting customer services that are soon to debut. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
Regency BallroomLUA Presents News and Updates at NLS LUA Presents News and Updates at NLS
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July 28, 2026This is your opportunity to learn about what is happening at NLS. Hear about the future on NLS and ask questions about programs and services. Both Jason Broughton, NLS Director, and Jason Yasner, NLS Deputy Director, will be on hand to engage in the conversation. Co-sponsored by LUA, BRL and AABT Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
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PEAC Presents Promoting Access in the Built Environment A 2 part Educational Series PEAC Presents Promoting Access in the Built Environment A 2 part Educational Series
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July 29, 2026In Collaboration with Gene Boecker, CCI Join PEAC and Gene Boecker from Code Consultants, Incorporated (CCI) for a dynamic two-session series dedicated to advancing access and inclusion for people who are blind or have low vision in the built environment. This program is designed for anyone interested in learning how to advocate for or create more accessible spaces. Explore the rich history and evolving landscape of accessibility, examining the key organizations at the forefront of change and the development of standards and regulations that shape inclusive design today. Special emphasis will be placed on the unique needs and rights of individuals who are blind or low vision, with practical applications that architects, engineers, facility managers, and other stakeholders use. Learning Objectives: – Understand the historical context of accessibility in the build environment and the pivotal role of advocacy organizations. – Identify major standards and regulations (such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and relevant building codes) that impact access for people who are blind or low vision. – Explore best practices for designing, constructing, and maintaining environments that promote independence and inclusion. – Engage with an expert, ask questions, and apply learnings to real-world scenarios. Who Should Attend? This series is ideal for anyone eager to champion inclusion in public and private spaces. Don’t Miss Out! Be part of the movement to make our communities accessible for all, and help shape a more inclusive future. Full session listing: https://acbconvention.org/?p=127
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