Please join us for the 41st Annual Association on Higher Education and Disabilities (AHEAD) Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Consistent with AHEAD’s mission, the conference will continue the theme of Equity and Excellence: Access in Higher Education.
We’re excited to welcome Margaret Price, Program Director of Disability Studies and Associate Professor at The Ohio State University, as our keynote speaker. Dr. Price is the author of Mad at School: Rhetorics of Mental Disability and Academic Life, a member of the Society of Disability Studies, and a well-respected presenter. Her work on destigmatizing mental illness and expecting and planning for students and faculty with mental illness will bring insight and awareness to this important topic.
The schedule offers multiple preconference institutes on Monday and Tuesday that are designed for an in-depth examination of topics near and dear to the hearts of disability service providers. Preconference institutes are available in two-day, single day, and half-day formats to best meet your scheduling needs. Many attendees have commented on the wealth of information and learning that they gain from the preconference format. We hope you take the opportunity to explore these offerings.
Once again, participants interested in specific topics will be able to follow conference strands throughout the week. Look for the highlighted program strands with thought-provoking topics including: Focusing on Students in Health Science and Professional Schools (Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, etc.); autism awareness, leadership, the ADA Coordinator role, social justice, and sessions that highlight research and data-based practices. Strands run through the eight concurrent time blocks and two poster sessions.
This year’s conference includes two featured presentation sessions. Twice during the conference, we’ll highlight popular topics by offering them in a time block with few competing presentations to enhance your opportunity to attend while minimizing scheduling conflicts. Featured presentations are scheduled for Wednesday and Friday.
By popular demand, we are again offering “AHEAD Talks.” Inspired by TED Talks, AHEAD Talks will be scheduled on Thursday and Friday morning before concurrent sessions begin (with coffee)! Be informed and enjoy several short, dynamic Talks by different each morning. AHEAD Talks will be a great way to start your day, inspired and challenged by innovative ideas from colleagues.
New Mexico offers majestic vistas and rich culture. It is also known for its creativity and ingenuity. Akin to those qualities, the 41st annual AHEAD conference will offer rich intellectual content and inspire curiosity and creativity in and out of the conference with friends and colleagues from around the country. Our conference would be incomplete without the Exhibit Hall which will offer information on the latest technologies, services, and programs.
We look forward to sharing moments of learning, fun, and inspiration with you at our social events throughout the conference. The President’s Reception, Awards Banquets, REDD SIG reception, and SIG Meetings provide essential opportunities to connect with colleagues.
As professionals, “we stand on the shoulders of giants in this field,” whether you are new or experienced, the 41st Annual AHEAD Access and Equity Conference has something new, invigorating, and exciting to offer you. We look forward to joining you in Albuquerque, New Mexico!