Day 1: June 9, 2025

Day 2: June 10, 2025

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7:30am – 8:30am

Registration

Registration & Check In

 

 

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8:30am – 8:50am

Ballroom

Welcome Remarks, Introductions & Breakfast

Pam Fields, CEO, Living Without Limits, Midstate Arc;
Arlene Lugo, Program Director and Assistive Technology Consultant, Connecticut Tech Act Project, the Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)

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8:50am – 9:50am

Ballroom

Keynote Presentation – Times They Are a Changin’: The Metamorphosis of People with Disabilities Living Lives of Their Own Choosing – Lynne Seagle, Executive Director (Retired), Hope House Foundation

In this thought-provoking keynote, Lynne Seagle will share the story of how Hope House has become internationally known for its innovative, person-centered approach. Lynne will discuss how she guided Hope House Foundation through the transition from serving people with disabilities in group homes to supporting each person to enjoy a life of his/her own design in his/her own home or apartment with all of the support needed for success.

10:30am – 11:30am

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10:30am – 11:30am

Ballroom North

Breakout Session 1A:

What’s Stopping Us? The Nuts and Bolts of Continuous Change

Speaker: Lynne Seagle, Executive Director (Retired)
Hope House Foundation

Description

This session will focus on the specifics of how Hope House Foundation functions today to include but not be limited to; leadership and staff development, participatory management, building a culture of change, safe and affordable housing approaches, technology and environmental solutions for people we support, team structure, business planning and community engagement.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Ballroom South

Breakout Session 1B:

Expanding Technology to Support Independent Living

Speakers: Sarah Ullom-Minnich, ARPA Planning Manager, and Patricia Orozco, Director of Assistive Technology, State of CT, Department of Developmental Services

Join us for an overview of how Connecticut Developmental Services (DDS) is supporting technology for independent living! DDS Assistive Technology Director Patricia Orozco will convene the panel and ARPA Planning Manager Sarah Ullom-Minnich will share updates on several new ways the department has expanded the availability of assistive tech.

Connecticut has installed new sensory rooms in all 3 regions that utilize assistive technology. We’ve also enhanced the technology available at our respite centers, to maximize independence and safety. Come learn about the technology we are using, and how it supports individuals to maintain health and independence!

We’ll also be joined by several individuals who made transitions to more independent residential and day services as part of DDS’s Supporting Transformation to Empower People (STEP) initiative. Come listen to them share their stories about how they used technology to make their transition possible, and how they interact with it now in their day-to-day lives.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Niznick Room (Second Floor)

Breakout Session 1C:

Ask "Alexa"

Speakers: Sue Soler, Assistive Technology Specialist & Meghan Lowe, Assistive Technology Specialist, Living Without Limits

Amazon Alexa offers a wealth of opportunities to improve the daily lives of seniors and individuals with disabilities by enhancing independence, safety, and convenience. In this session, we will explore how Alexa’s voice-controlled features can help with everyday tasks like setting reminders, controlling smart home devices, and staying connected with family and friends. We will also focus on Alexa’s accessibility features, such as customizable voice settings, visual displays, and alerts for people with hearing or vision impairments.

Attendees of the session will learn how Alexa can be used to simplify both their physical and mental load while making their home more accessible to them. We will share how to use Alexa can assist people who have mobility difficulties and those with limited verbal communication. This session will provide practical tips, tricks, and real-life examples, showing how Alexa can transform the way they live by providing both safety and ease in everyday activities. Whether they are looking to simplify their routine, stay connected, or enhance accessibility, this session will provide valuable insights into maximizing Alexa’s potential.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Summit Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 1D:

Empowering Independence: The Role of Wearable Technology in Enhancing Life for Individuals with Disabilities

Speaker: Miriam Johnson, Manager of Accessibility Services
UCP of Eastern CT

Wearable technology is transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities by enhancing accessibility, independence, and quality of life. This presentation, “Empowering Independence: The Role of Wearable Technology in Enhancing Life for Individuals with Disabilities,” will explore how devices like smart glasses, health trackers, and assistive wearables are revolutionizing daily experiences for people with physical, cognitive, and sensory challenges.

We will highlight the ways in which wearables enable hands-free assistance, improve communication, offer real-time health monitoring, and support mobility, helping users gain greater autonomy. Real-life examples and success stories will showcase the positive impact of these technologies on personal empowerment and social inclusion.

By the end of the session, attendees will understand how wearable technology is breaking down barriers and creating a more accessible, inclusive world for individuals with disabilities.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Paragon Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 1E:

Brava Smart Oven: Enhancement of Independent Living for Persons with an Intellectual Disability

Speakers: James Feltz, Assistive Technology Specialist, Nigel Cooper, Assistive Technology Specialist, Living Without Limits, & Shannon Taber, UCP

The Brava Smart Oven is an innovative countertop appliance that leverages pure light technology to cook 1 food quickly, efficiently, and safely. With features like multi-zone cooking, a touchscreen interface, and smart app connectivity, Brava simplifies meal preparation, making it accessible to a wide range of users. A key goal of this event is to demonstrate how the Brava Oven empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities to cook independently, offering an intuitive and guided cooking experience. Attendees will engage in a hands-on session, exploring Brava’s ability to simultaneously cook multiple ingredients with precision and ease. Simple recipes such as roasted salmon with asparagus, mini Margherita flatbreads, breakfast egg bites, garlic butter shrimp with zucchini, and chocolate chip cookies will be prepared to highlight the oven’s versatility, accessibility, and safety.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Hospitality Room (Second Floor)

Mindfulness Room

Mindfullness Room

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

Mindfulness Room, Experiential room.

Ready To Get Started?

Early Bird Rates are now open!

11:30am – 12:00pm

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11:30am – 12:00pm

Exhibitor Gallery

Exhibitor Gallery

Time to visit with the wide array of exhibitors showcasing assistive technology and support services!

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12:00pm – 12:45pm

Ballroom North

Ballroom North- Luncheon Assistive Tech Smackdown!

Sharing is everything, right? Wouldn’t it be nice if a group of people could just sit down and share different technology tools that can be used to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities? If you answered ‘yes,’ then this session is for you!  Join us for lunch & this interactive Tech Smackdown where we all share with each other different technology tools that can be used with and/or by individuals with disabilities. This is a session fast-paced for practitioners led by practitioners.  Bring your devices with you to share because this session is all about YOU!! The facilitators will compile a list of shared tools for future reference.

Speaker: Lauren Tucker, EdD, Associate Professor, Southern Connecticut State University

Afternoon Sessions, Day 1

1:00pm – 2:00pm

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Ballroom North

Breakout Session 2A:

Traversing Technology Through a Different Lens

Speakers: Emily Zimmerman, Senior Accessibility Analyst (AT User Experience)

In this session, Emily shares her story of losing her vision after numerous surgeries to remove a rare brain tumor at 14 and the adaptation process of relearning to read, travel, and use technology. Emily will talk about the importance of technology and how it assists with daily tasks at home as well as the work place. Emily’s journey is a testament to hope and resilience. She aims to share her story to encourage educators and teachers to not be afraid to think outside the box to help students who learn differently, as well as inspire those facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, proving that strength and determination can overcome even the darkest of circumstances.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Ballroom South

Breakout Session 2B:

The Economic Impact of Remote Supports: A Path to Sustainability and Independence

Speakers: Don Shirley, CEO & Jessica Daiger, District Manager, Safe in Home

Remote Supports have emerged as a transformative tool in empowering individuals with disabilities to live more autonomously while addressing workforce shortages and enhancing the sustainability of services for providers. With proposed cuts to Medicaid funding and structural changes such as per-capita caps, as highlighted by ANCOR’s recent call to action, the ability of community providers to deliver essential services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) is at jeopardy.

This session will explore how Remote Supports can strengthen service delivery systems, improve access to care, and promote independence for individuals, all while demonstrating significant cost savings for providers and state Medicaid agencies. Attendees will gain insights into the financial advantages of integrating Remote Supports, supported by data and real-world examples. Whether you are a provider, agency staff, or advocate, this session will equip you with the knowledge to understand and communicate the economic benefits of Remote Supports in preserving the quality and accessibility of care in the face of these challenges.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Niznick Room (Second Floor)

Breakout Session 2C:

Living Independently with AT

Speakers: Living Without Limits team

Session information to follow soon.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Summit Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 2D:

From Mom to AAC App Developer: My Journey to Find My Child's Voice

Speaker: Lana Marcucio, Founder, QVoice.app

This session takes you through a mom’s inspiring journey with AAC for their child. We’ll explore the initial challenges, the search for the right device, and the heartwarming breakthroughs in finding a new way to connect with her daughter. Did we mention this parent is a mobile app developer?

Armed with 15+ years of UX design and cross-platform software development, this mom knows what tech can do and should do to help AAC users. Join us for a journey filled with practical advice and a fresh perspective to transform AAC therapy for families.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Paragon Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 2E:

High Tech but Low Impact? Avoiding Pitfalls When Adopting Digital Supports

Speakers:  Jamie Martin, Assistive Technology Manager, Lumibility & Paul Carpenter, CEO, Boundary Care

Drawing from lessons learned across multiple states, as well as on-the-ground experiences from a seasoned AT professional in Connecticut, this session will explore how to overcome some of the common issues that limit technology’s effectiveness in supporting individuals.

In the first part of the session, Jamie Martin, Assistive Technology Manager at Lumibility, will share her approach to building an optimal assistive technology (AT) process, including methods for assessing individuals’ needs, aligning stakeholders, ensuring successful deployment, and addressing the critical issue of technology abandonment.

During the second half, Paul Carpenter, CEO of BoundaryCare, will share some challenges faced by numerous provider organizations who wish to adopt a tech-first strategy and their most effective responses.

This session will benefit provider leadership, AT professionals, and DDS case managers who wish to learn how to drive successful AT deployment.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Hospitality Room (Second Floor)

Mindfulness Room

Mindfullness Room

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

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2:00pm – 2:30pm

Exhibitor Gallery

Exhibitor Gallery

Time to visit with the wide array of exhibitors showcasing assistive technology and support services!

2:30pm – 3:30pm

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Ballroom North

Breakout Session 3A:

App Wheel: A Hands-On Workshop for Eyegaze, Accessible Apps Across Operating Systems with Hiru

Speakers: Hannah Erickson, Partner Training & Support, Irisbond

This hands-on workshop introduces participants to IRISBOND’s Hiru, the first multi-platform eye tracker, alongside the IRISBOND App Wheel, a curated guide to eyegaze-accessible apps across operating systems.The IRISBOND App Wheel is an essential resource for therapists, educators, and families seeking eye-gaze-compatible applications. The goal of the workshop is to provide a practical, interactive experience where participants learn to configure eye tracking technology for different types of apps, ranging from communication tools to leisure and educational activities.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Ballroom South

Breakout Session 3B:

Cognitopia Digital Tools for Self-Determination

Speakers: Tom Keating, CEO, & Phil Hayes, New England Regional Director, Cognitopia

This session will demonstrate the Cognitopia Platform for Self-Determination, a universally-designed multimedia tool for neurodiverse students and adults to understand and communicate their strengths, interests, and preferences, and to easily access routines and goals to more effectively self-manage school, work, and life tasks. We will look at how these web-based tools can grow and evolve with the user as they transition into employment and independent living or postsecondary education.

The MyLife multimedia e-portfolio enables IEP or ISP self-direction and personal story-telling. Routines makes it easy to illustrate the steps of any activity with images, video, or text, and to directly access routines by scanning a QR code. Goal Guide lets you schedule repeating activities, get reminders, track progress, document your accomplishments, and share those with others. The session is intended to be interactive with ample time for questions and comments.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Niznick Room (Second Floor)

Breakout Session 3C:

3D Printing: Reducing Barriers to Assistive Technology

Speakers: Arianna Bordeleau, Assistive Technology Specialist, Perspectives Corporation

Development and awareness of assistive technology tools has increased, but 7 out 10 people abandon using their AT. A research review conducted by the NIHR found many barriers and divided them up into 6 theme groups: design & function, information & awareness, service provision, psychological barriers, support network, and societal barriers. 3D printing assistive technology and including users in the discussion and development gives the opportunity to customize tools and devices to meet their styles and preferences. Considering universal design principles in the development allows tools to be used by a variety of demographics, not just someone with a disability. This helps to increase follow through and continued use of the item.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Summit Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 3D:

To Be Announced

Speaker: To Be Announced

Session information to follow soon.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Paragon Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 3E:

Tech-infused Smart Living: Setting up Assistive Technology and Remote Supports

Speakers:  Laura Mitchell, CEO GrandCare Systems, Brian Hart, CEO ShiftAbility and Smart Living Systems by LADD.

Providers are facing staffing shortages and high turnover while the number of people requiring support is increasing. The Pew Research center reports up to 1 in 4 Adults face some type of disability in America today. The answer isn’t to work faster and harder, it’s to work smarter. Armed with high-tech, high-touch products, we can! We’ll explore the spectrum of technology options from medication management to fall detection to smart touchscreens and smart stoves. We’ll talk about Smart Tech-enabled Living, a new model of value-based care that is saving organizations like yours real dollars, improving independence and reducing onsite caregiving hours without sacrificing safety. What should you expect? How do you pay for it and when do you start seeing the return on investment? This 75 minute course will detail the transition to smart living and how you can get started.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Hospitality Room (Second Floor)

Mindfulness Room

Mindfullness Room

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

3:30pm – 5:00pm

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3:30pm – 5:00pm

Exhibitor Gallery

Cocktail & Networking Reception

 

 

Day 2 – Tuesday, June 10, 2025

 

 

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7:30am – 8:30am

Registration

Registration & Check In

 

 

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8:30am – 8:50am

Ballroom

Welcome Remarks, Introductions & Breakfast

Pam Fields, CEO, Living Without Limits, Midstate Arc;
Arlene Lugo, Program Director and Assistive Technology Consultant, Connecticut Tech Act Project, the Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)

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8:50am – 9:50am

Ballroom

Keynote Presentation: There’s an App and Alexa for That!!!

Speakers: Kara and Alice Brouhard 

This is a fun and informative look at how two low-cost apps ($1.99 and $18.99) and
Alexa can support independence in individuals even with significant cognitive issues.
Alice has utilized this mainstream technology for over 18 years to assist her daughter,
Kara, who sustained a severe TBI, and was left with many challenges, to live a very
independent life! This technology has given Kara the ability to have her own voice
remind her what to do throughout her day, and to guide and support her in
accomplishing daily tasks. In addition, Alice will discuss and demonstrate how useful
Amazon Alexa can be in assisting with home safety as well as increasing knowledge of
the world around us for individuals with cognitive challenges.

10:30am – 11:30am

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10:30am – 11:30am

Ballroom North

Breakout Session 1A:

A Practical Guide to Creating Accessible Documents in Microsoft and Google Docs

Speakers:  Rachael Sessler Trinkowsky, Assistive Technology Visual Impairment Program Coordinator, & Alexandra Futty, Program Manager, University of Massachusetts Boston

Come join us to learn the essentials for creating accessible documents using Microsoft Word and Google Docs using keyboard commands or a mouse pointer. Methods will be discussed, demonstrated, and explored for ensuring that various elements are accessible, including text, images, headings, links, color contrast, theme settings, and other considerations. We will discuss recommended strategies for converting to an accessible .PDF, as well as resources for further exploration and services to assist with developing accessible digital content. We will explore strategies for verifying accessibility manually, as well as using accessibility checkers. Additional resources will be shared for further exploration and services to assist with developing accessible digital content.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Ballroom South

Breakout Session 1B:

Tech Savvy Living: Smart Solutions for Aging and Accessibility

Speakers: Kristen Gilfeather, Assistive Technologu Manager, NEAT Center at Oakhill

Advancements in assistive and smart home technology are transforming the way people of all abilities live independently. This session will explore how devices such as voice assistants, smart sensors, automated lighting, and assistive technology can create safer, more accessible environments for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Attendees will learn how these technologies address common challenges related to mobility limitations, vision loss, hearing deficits, and daily living management.The session will also cover key factors in choosing user-friendly solutions and ensuring effective implementation. Select demonstrations will showcase how some of these tools function in real-world settings, offering insights into their practical benefits. Additionally, attendees will gain an understanding of how emerging trends in assistive technology continue to expand opportunities for independent living and develop a deeper appreciation of how technology can enhance independence, accessibility, and quality of life.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Niznick Room (Second Floor)

Breakout Session 1C:

The Latest in Low Vision Assistive Technology

Speakers: Scott Krug, President, New England Low Vision

Join Scott Krug, President of New England Low Vision and Blindness, for an engaging presentation on The Latest in Low Vision Assistive Technology. Discover cutting-edge solutions designed to empower individuals with visual impairments, including the newest advancements in video magnification, wearable devices, and text-to-speech technology. Scott’s expertise and passion provide a comprehensive look at how these tools can enhance independence and quality of life. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how technology is reshaping possibilities for those with low vision.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Summit Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 1D:

Understanding Adaptive Driving with High-Tech Equipment

Speakers: Raechaell Corbett, Supervisor, Easterseals Driver Assistance Program, Easterseals & Christian Quandt, President, Advanced Wheels

Did you know that someone can drive with minimal range of motion, strength, and endurance with the right equipment? Did you know that a wheelchair user could drive from their wheelchair and independently operate their vehicle? Come learn about High-Tech Driving equipment and the process involved to achieve independence in driving.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Paragon Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 1E:

Switch it Up: DIY Assistive Tech

Speakers: Laurie Dale, Senior Leader, Empowering Technology, Ability Beyond

“Switch It Up! DIY Assistive Tech” empowers participants to build custom assistive technology switches under the guidance of the TIP squad, individuals with developmental disabilities. This hands-on workshop demystifies basic circuits and conductivity, enabling participants to create functional pressure switches and explore various designs. By learning alongside the TIP squad, attendees gain practical skills and discover resources for continued assistive technology exploration.

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10:30am – 11:30am

Hospitality Room (Second Floor)

Mindfulness Room

Mindfullness Room

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

11:30am – 12:00pm

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11:30am – 12:00pm

Exhibitor Gallery

Exhibitor Gallery

Time to visit with the wide array of exhibitors showcasing assistive technology and support services!

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12:00pm – 12:45pm

Ballroom North

Ballroom North- Luncheon

 

Afternoon Sessions, Day 2

1:00pm – 2:00pm

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Ballroom North

Breakout Session 2A:

Journey to Advocacy

Speaker: Miles Forma (AT User Experience)

In this session, Miles will discuss his journey as an AAC user for more than 20 years, from infancy to adulthood. From his parents being told all the things he wouldn’t be able to do to his current role speaking to colleges all over the country, Miles will share experiences as an AAC User.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Ballroom South

Breakout Session 2B:

The Latest in Wearable Assistive Technology

Speaker: Scott Krug, President, New England Low Vision

Join Scott Krug, President of New England Low Vision and Blindness, for an insightful presentation on The Latest in Wearable Assistive Technology. Discover cutting-edge solutions designed to empower individuals with low vision and blindness, including innovative products like wearable video magnifiers, OCR technologies, and smart glasses. Learn how these technologies are revolutionizing accessibility, independence, and quality of life by enabling users to read, recognize faces, navigate environments, and much more. Learn how AI is impacting these technologies for a more inclusive and interactive user experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the future of wearable assistive devices and how they can transform daily living.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Niznick Room (Second Floor)

Breakout Session 2C:

Android vs. iOS Smartphone Accessibility Functions: Which are best for you?

Speakers: Marisol DeJesus, Assistant Director of Assistive Technology, & James Feltz, Assistive Technology Specialist, Living without Limits & Chris Connolly, UCP

Both Android and iOS offer extensive accessibility features designed to support users with various disabilities, including vision, hearing, mobility, and cognitive impairments. iOS, known for its consistency and ease of use, includes VoiceOver (a robust screen reader), Magnifier, Zoom, Spoken Content, and Sound Recognition for those with vision or hearing impairments. It also provides AssistiveTouch, Switch Control, and Back Tap for users with motor disabilities, along with Live Captions, Guided Access, and Voice Control for cognitive and communication support. Android, offering more customization, features TalkBack (a screen reader similar to VoiceOver), Magnification, Live Transcribe, Sound Amplifier, and Lookout for visual and hearing accessibility. It also includes Switch Access, Voice Access, and customizable gestures for mobility support. Both platforms support braille displays, real-time captions, and AI-driven accessibility improvements, though iOS is often praised for its seamless integration, while Android provides more flexibility across a wider range of devices.

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1:00pm – 2:00pm

Summit Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 2D:

Beyond the Classroom: Tailoring Communication Systems for Adult Life

Speakers: Margie Hislop, Speech Language Pathologist, AAC Specialist & Liz O’Brien, Speech Language Pathologist, NEAT Center at Oakhill

As Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users transition from the school system to adult environments, such as group homes, it’s essential to ensure that their communication systems continue to meet their evolving needs. This session will focus on how to customize an AAC system to align with the changes in vocabulary, routines, and social interactions that come with adult living. We will explore strategies for editing the system to reflect new environments, including medical, community, and recreational settings, and emphasize the importance of vocabulary that supports independence in adult settings. Additionally, we will review AAC options specifically designed for older teens and adults which offer relevant and age-appropriate vocabulary. Whether you’re a caregiver, therapist, or professional working with adult AAC users, this session will equip you with the tools to ensure their communication system continues to support their independence and connection.

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2:00pm – 2:30pm

Exhibitor Gallery

Exhibitor Gallery

Time to visit with the wide array of exhibitors showcasing assistive technology and support services!

2:30pm – 3:30pm

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Ballroom North

Breakout Session 3A:

AI for All: Navigating the Promises and Pitfalls of Inclusive Technology

Speaker: Lauren Tucker, EdD, Associate Professor, Southern CT State University

Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds transformative potential to bridge digital divides, foster accessibility and enhance efficiency. This session demystifies AI’s role in creating a more inclusive digital landscape while addressing its inherent challenges. Participants will learn practical applications of AI, including crafting effective prompts and identifying safe, reliable strategies for assistive technologies. We will explore the dualities of AI—the advantages of automation and inclusivity, alongside risks such as misinformation, biases, and privacy concerns. By the end of this session, attendees will navigate AI’s benefits and pitfalls, equipped to empower their communities.

Join us to discover how AI can amplify opportunities and foster a more equitable digital ecosystem for all.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Ballroom South

Breakout Session 3B:

Crafting a Life of Autonomy: Practical Approaches and Tech Tools to Support Dementia Care

Speakers: Michelle Boutelle, Assistive Technology Specialist, & Taylor Ferri, Assistive Technology Specialist, NEAT Center at Oakhill

Dementia presents complex challenges for both individuals living with the condition and their caregivers. As the global population ages, dementia-related care will continue to increase. This presentation focuses on the role of assistive technologies (AT) in improving the daily lives of those with dementia, offering practical solutions to enhance independence, safety, and social interaction. By exploring innovative AT tools and solutions, we aim to provide insights into the ways technology can empower individuals living with dementia, reduce caregiver burden, and promote dignity in care.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Niznick Room (Second Floor)

Breakout Session 3C:

Empowering Workplaces: The Role of Assistive Technology in Inclusion & Accessibility

Speaker: David Axelrod, NEAT Center at Oakhill (AT User Experience)

This session covers three main learning objectives: we will identify the different types of Assistive Technology (AT) used in the workplace, from low-tech to high-tech solutions, and understand their role in supporting employees with diverse needs.

Secondly, we evaluate workplace accessibility needs by understanding the assessment process and how to match the right AT to an individual’s job functions, work environment, and abilities.

And lastly, we explore emerging Assistive Technology trends, including AI, adaptive wearables, and virtual reality, and understand how these innovations create more accessible and inclusive workplaces.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Summit Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 3D:

AAC is Everywhere: Embracing the Tech and Making it Meaningful for Young Adults with Communication Differences

Speaker:Elena Fader, Founder & SLP, Village Voices Speech Therapy & AT Services

In today’s world, we are bombarded by technology from every direction, for better or for worse. While the adverse effects certainly warrant continued conversations for change, the positive impacts should be highlighted and capitalized upon to support universal access to the basic human right of communication. This session will demonstrate the ways that mainstream mobile technologies can be the ticket that young adults with communication differences need to engage in real-world interactions. Although providing access to traditional augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices will always be critical, also considering ways to integrate readily available technologies into an individual’s communication “system” is a no brainer. With these tools already at their fingertips, or at their eyes, heads, arms, etc. in cases of alternative access, they have immediate opportunities for expression while socializing, learning, and working.

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Paragon Room (Home 2)

Breakout Session 3E:

Solutions Tech Talk Workshop: An Interactive Experience with Chromebook and iPad Solutions

Speakers: Heather Butterfield & Nicole Nardi-Warner, NEAT Center

Join us for an interactive Tech Talk Workshop: Navigating Student Success with Chromebook and iPad Solutions! In this hands-on session, you’ll have the opportunity to explore and actively engage with the technology that can make learning both fun and accessible. We’ll dive into the accessibility features of Chromebooks and iPads, comparing how each device can support students with varying needs. From enhancing engagement to fostering an inclusive learning environment, we’ll provide practical tips and tricks for maximizing these devices. Whether you’re team Chromebook or team iPad, you’ll leave with new ideas and hands-on experience to help empower every student. Get ready for a session filled with actionable strategies and some tech magic!

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2:30pm – 3:30pm

Hospitality Room (Second Floor)

Mindfulness Room

Mindfullness Room

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

Visit the Mindfulness Room if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main conference. Relax in a quiet space with mindfulness activities in a calming atmosphere.

Ready To Get Started?

Early Bird Rates are now open!

Early Bird Registration Savings Now Through April 11!

June 9 & 10, 2025
Bristol Event Center, Bristol CT

Contact Us

(203) 514-3047

[email protected]