Our 2024 Virtual State Conference takes place on October 28, November 13, and November 21. We have a fantastic slate of sessions lined up this year -- mark your calendar and register using the link above! (Please note all sessions are Eastern Standard Time.)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 28

Morning Session: 10 - 11:30am EST

Updates from the Department of Justice

The Civil Rights division works to uphold the civil rights of all people in Connecticut. Under this program, they enforce federal laws that protect people from discrimination, harassment, and abuse based on many things including disability. These laws apply to many areas, including housing, education, credit, transportation, voting, and state and local government programs. Learn more about recent cases in Connecticut, how complaints are filed, investigated and resolved. Featuring Stewart C. Dearing, Assistant United States Attorney, District of Connecticut.

Afternoon Session: 3 - 4:30pm EST

Come One, Come All: Planning Accessible Events and Convenings

All stages of an event from the moment you start marketing until the last guest leaves provides opportunities for disabled attendees to feel included or excluded. Presenters from The Harkin Institute will share their tips and tricks for planning accessible events based on their years of experience in hosting numerous disability-centric events from small brown bag lunches to large international conferences and everything in between. Attendees will leave with concrete recommendations and ideas for their next public event. Featuring Lila Johnson and Daniel Van Sant, both of the Harkin Institute.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13

Morning Session: 10 - 11:30am EST

Beyond ADA Compliance: Building Bridges by Understanding Lived Experience

In a world where inclusivity and accessibility are paramount to progress, the principle of 'Nothing About Us Without Us' serves as a guiding light. This principle underscores that policies, practices, and regulations should not be established without the direct involvement of the affected community, particularly individuals with disabilities. Join us for an engaging presentation that provides insights into intersectionality: particularly the interconnectedness of race, gender, sexuality, and ability. Then learn how to build bridges between the community and municipal leadership using lived experience to guide the way! Featuring Christina Gray, Community Partnerships Manager, CT Age Well Collaborative; Maggie Sims, Project Manager, Rocky Mountain ADA Center; Taciana Ribeiro-Saab, Director of the New England ADA Center and Regina Dyton, Adjunct Professor, UCONN School of Social Work.

Afternoon Session: 3 - 4:30pm EST

A Beginner’s Guide to the Self-Evaluation & Transition Plan

(Without a $1M Budget)

Ashley Lichtle led the development and execution of Salt Lake City’s first ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan since 1993 using local resources and no budget. This is a practical, step-by-step guide on one way to complete a Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan with little to no financial resources. It will highlight steps taken throughout the phases of the project. Participants will leave with resources and action items to begin or continue their Self-Evaluation projects. Featuring Ashley Lichtle, Salt Lake City ADA Coordinator.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Morning Session: 10 - 11:30am EST

Inclusive Design: Inside and Out

Explore the role of design in social equity across the spectrum of ability, age, culture, gender and economic status. Hear from experts on how to foster an environment that values relationships, encourages personal growth, and provides equal opportunities for everyone to thrive. Learn how to consider spaces that go beyond aesthetics that result in inspiring, sustainable, and inclusive outcomes. Featuring Courtney A. Brown, Ph.D., ASID Allied, Interior Designer, Shive-Hattery and Phil Barlow, PLA, LEED AP, Landscape Architect, Senior Design Advisor, FHI Studio.

Afternoon Session: 3 - 4:30pm EST

Roundtable with ADACC Board Members 

Our ADACC board members are leaders and experts in the field of disability compliance, advocacy and rights. Join us for an informative roundtable on topics that will include: service animals, disability etiquette, transportation, interpreters, and more, as well as time for an Ask Us Anything Q&A. Come prepared for a lively, interactive, and interesting discussion!