Spring Sparkler Event: Designing a Conference for All: Embracing Accessibility

During our Spring Sparkler, we will explore the crucial elements of designing conferences that are inclusive and accessible to all attendees. From physical spaces to new technologies, we will delve into strategies for accommodating diverse needs, ensuring that everyone can fully participate and engage, and increasing attendee satisfaction scores. Join us to learn how to make your next conference a welcoming and empowering experience for everyone!

Location:

Freeman Office

11 Canal Center Plz Ste 100

Alexandria, VA, 22314

Agenda:

2:00 pm: Welcome

2:15 pm: Event Overview and Importance of Accessibility Throughout Event Design

• • • • Robin Troutman, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
      • Claire Mouledoux, Visit Alexandria and Patrick Lennon, Visit Fairfax on behalf of TravelAbility as members of the Destination Ally Club
      • Mark Wallach, Engagement Mobile Strategies

2:45 pm – 3:00 pm: Break

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Deeper Dive into Accessibility through Mini-Roundtables

• • • • Roundtable 1: Destination: Visit Anaheim and their accessibility journey, Tom Michalikso
      • Roundtable 2: Destination Visit Palm Springs and JW Marriott Desert Springs on autism certified destinations, Will Trokey and Whitney Gafford
      • Roundtable 3: Destination: Visit Alexandria and Visit Fairfax initiatives on accessibility offerings from a historic destination Claire Moledoux and Patrick Lennon
      • Roundtable 4: Engagement Mobile Strategies with Mark Wallach
      • Roundtable 5: Accessibility Considerations within Organization Event Design with Robin Troutman of NACDD and Marshall Nayer, American Society of Hematology

4pm – 4:30pm: Case Studies: How Two Organizations Embraced Accessibility Within Their Events

• • • • Robin Troutman, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
      • Marshall Nayer, American Society of Hematology

4:30pm – 6:00pm: Reception

Speakers:

Whitney Gafford, Senior Sales Executive, JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

Patrick Lennon, Director of Marketing, Visit Fairfax

Tom Michalisko, Convention Sales Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, Visit Anaheim

Claire Mouledoux, Senior VP of Communications, Visit Alexandria

Marshall Nayer, Deputy Director American Society of Hematology

Will Trokey, National Accounts Director, Visit Greater Palm Springs

Robin Troutman, CMP, Interim Executive Director, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities

J. Mark Wallach, CEO Emeritus, Engagement Mobile Strategies

Cost:

• Individual Planner – Member $30
• Individual Planner – Non-Member $50
• Individual Supplier – Member $45
• Individual Supplier – Non-Member $60
• Student $10