Convention Agenda for Friday, November 6, 2020

2:00 PM—Careers in Tech: What You Need to Know

Are you interested in a career in accessibility engineering or web development? Join Aaron Cannon as he breaks down the skills and tools you need to know in order to embark on a journey into code and demonstrates the basics of creating a web page. (Please note that while this will be an introductory discussion, participants will need to be comfortable with the use of screen readers and the internet.) Aaron Cannon, Software Accessibility Engineer, Kuali Inc.

3:00 PM—Master the Basics: Tools for Applying for Jobs

A crucial step in getting hired for most jobs is the application process, and while that can be daunting, there are some tried and true techniques you can use to make your application stand out. Learn how to prepare a resumé and write a cover letter so you can boost your chances of landing an interview. Dan Ashman, Careers Instructor, Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions (BLIND), Inc.

4:00 PM—How to Succeed in Employment

Armed with the knowledge of how to apply for jobs, the next step is getting one. From where to search to how to ace an interview, this session will teach the skills job seekers need in order to not only find a job, but succeed at it. Dan Ashman, Careers Instructor, Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions (BLIND), Inc.

2:00 PM—A Seminar at Convention: Discussing and Debating our Philosophy of Blindness

We know we can live the lives we want. We know that blindness doesn’t have to hold us back. What does that mean for each of us, though, when we encounter discrimination or when people treat us differently. Share your thoughts on blindness in this moderated discussion featuring thought-provoking situations. Yadiel Sotomayor, Facilitator and Home Management Instructor, Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions 

3:00 PM—Understanding the NFB: Our Philosophy and our Purpose; Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind

Perhaps you’re new to the National Federation of the Blind, or perhaps you have burning questions about something you’ve never quite understood. Join our national president for an open forum discussion of our organization, the philosophy we embody, and what makes us so effective.

4:00 PM—Resolutions Committee; Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson

Resolutions are the policies of our organization, and they help us set priorities for the coming year. Before resolutions are discussed on the convention floor, however, they are considered first by the resolutions committee. This is your opportunity to hear the resolutions as they are first read and listen as the committee discusses them.

Briley O'Connor, Facilitator and NFBMN Secretary

2:00 PM—Tips for Trading Stocks Independently; Taey Mack, Member, NFBMN Metro Chapter

2:15 PM—Logging into the Internet of Things; Steve Decker, Lead Accessibility Consultant, Target

2:30 PM—Up Your iPhone Game with Shortcuts; Corbb O’Connor, Chairperson, NFBMN Technology Committee

2:45 PM—NFB-NEWSLINE® Demonstration; Dave Andrews, President, NFBMN At-Large Chapter

3:00 PM—Working from Home During a Pandemic; Briley O’Connor, NFBMN Secretary

3:30 PM—Zoomed Out: Self Care Strategies During Challenging Times; Candice Chapman, President, NFB Human Services Division

4:00 PM—App Forum

There are more than 2 million apps in the iOS App Store alone, and they can do anything you can imagine…and some things you’ve likely never considered. Come discover your next favorite apps, and share your current favorites with others. Chelsey Duranleau, Facilitator: Treasurer, NFBMN Metro Chapter and Technology Instructor, Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions (BLIND), Inc.

• 6:00 PM—Welcome and Call to Order
• 6:10 PM—Convention and Zoom Logistics
• 6:15 PM—Celebrating 100 Years of History in Sound, Part 1
• 6:30 PM—The Young and the Homeless: The NFBMN Players
• 6:35 PM—Stories from our Early Years; Peggy Chong, The Blind History Lady
• 6:55 PM—Voices of Federationists
• 7:10 PM—Fit Break; Kyle Hanneman, Fitness Consultant
• 7:15 PM—Lessons from STEAM; Kaden Colton, Communications Instructor, Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions (BLIND), Inc.
• 7:30 PM—Adjourn

Join your Federation family for an evening full of NFB trivia and fast, furious bidding on exciting auction items. Bring your thinking caps and your credit cards!