2019 AHEAD Conference Opening Plenary

Thursday, July 11, 9:00-10:30 am

AHEAD is thrilled to welcome Haben Girma, J.D. as the opening keynote speaker.

Students with Disabilities are an Asset to Universities

Do our schools recognize the tremendous value gained by investing in accessibility? People with disabilities are the largest minority group, numbering over 1.3 billion worldwide. Schools that prioritize accessibility reach a larger audience, including disabled and nondisabled community members. We know from history that difference drives innovation, but few people know about the hidden figures with disabilities who have sparked many of the technologies we use today. Schools that welcome students and faculty members with disabilities are more likely to generate exciting new ideas and solutions. Come join us for this engaging presentation on the many ways schools stand to benefit by choosing inclusion.

The first Deafblind person to graduate from Harvard Law School, Haben Girma advocates for equal opportunities for people with disabilities. She received the Helen Keller Achievement Award, and Forbes recognized her in Forbes 30 Under 30. Haben travels the world consulting and public speaking, discussing the benefits of fully accessible products and services. Haben is a talented storyteller who frames difference as an asset. Because of her disability rights advocacy she has been honored by President Obama, President Clinton, and many others. Haben has been featured extensively in media around the world, including the BBC, NBC, Forbes, NPR, and many more.

Haben Girma, J.D.
Haben Girma, J.D.