Equity and Excellence: Access in Higher Education

Please join us in lovely Orlando, Florida for the 40th Conference of the Association on Higher Education and Disabilities. Just as Orlando offers something for everyone at any age, so does the 40th anniversary of AHEAD, with its focus on equity and excellence.

Equity and Excellence: Access in Higher Education welcomes keynote speaker Kay Ulanday Barrett, on Wednesday morning. A PBS News Hour featured poet, Kay’s presentation focuses on social justice and intersectionality, using poetry, performance, and personal reflections.

Even before the conference begins on Wednesday, AHEAD offers eleven Preconference Institutes on Monday and Tuesday. An array of two-day, one-day, and half-day institutes covers a variety of topics, providing the opportunity to begin your conference and learning experience early.

Participants interested in focusing on specific topics will once again be able to follow conference strands. Look for the highlighted program stands with thought-provoking topics including: Focusing on Students in Health Science and Professional Schools (Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, etc.); Intentionally Leading a DS Office: It is YOUR Business; Focusing on Students with Intellectual Disabilities in Postsecondary Education; and sessions that highlight research and data-based practices.

In addition to over 100 concurrent sessions to choose from and two poster sessions with over 30 posters, this year’s conference includes two Feature Presentation sessions. Twice during the conference, we’ll highlight popular topics by offering them in a time block with only four competing presentations to enhance your opportunity to attend while minimizing scheduling conflicts. Featured Presentations are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.

This year also bring the excitement of a new presentation format: “AHEAD Talks” Be informed and enjoy several short, dynamic Talks by different presenters in one block of time. Inspired by TED Talks, AHEAD Talks will be scheduled during several concurrent time blocks throughout the conference to give you the opportunity to be refreshed and challenged by innovative ideas from colleagues.

Orlando’s sun brings us our shining vendors. Reconnect with favorite vendors, meet new ones, and learn how the products offered through the attending vendors provide students with Equity and Excellence: Access in Higher Education.

While you’re learning and being reenergizing, don’t forget to take time to socialize and meet fabulous professional in the field. Socializing highlights include the President’s Reception on Wednesday evening and the Friday night banquet, awards presentation, and party.

Whether you’re a new professional or a seasoned veteran, the conference offers the “good” challenge of fitting all the exceptional offerings into your days. Attending this AHEAD 40th Anniversary conference is assured to enhance your knowledge and revitalize your passion for Equity and Excellence.

We look forward to you joining us in beautiful Orlando, Florida for our 40th Anniversary Conference.