Conference to increase awareness of disabilities

The second annual “Envision Access” conference has been set for the campus of Ohio University Southern on Friday, March 9.

The event, geared toward supporting students with disabilities is an opportunity to increase awareness and understanding of trends in addressing the needs of students with disabilities, according to Accessibility and Veteran’s Services Coordinator Teresa McKenzie.

“This conference is devoted to the awareness, education and inclusion of all students,” she said. “It’s our goal to create a positive space for the development of community connections, and the fostering working relationships with secondary and post-secondary institutions along with community organizations.”

The luncheon keynote speaker will be Davey McNelly, who dedicates his time to inclusion for people with disabilities, often writing and speaking on the topic.

As someone living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, McNelly draws from personal experience and more than 15 years working in the non-profit, disability and mental health field.

He currently works at the Athens County Board of Developmental Disabilities, where his main priority is to help people who live in segregated settings, such as nursing homes, move to community living.

People can register, at $40 for professionals and $15 for students, online at https://www.ohio.edu/southern/events/eaconference.cfm#registration.
College Credit and CEU Credit are available.

All participants will receive a Certificate of Participation.

For more information contact Robert Pleasant, Associate Director, Student Resource Commons, pleasanr@ohio.edu, 740.533.4608 or Teresa McKenzie, Accessibility Coordinator, mckenzt1@ohio.edu, 740.547.3875.