Join us on Friday, February 7th, at Tauber Colloquium in Ross from 9:30am-5:00pm for the BLDA's Inaugural RossAbilities Conference, a groundbreaking event dedicated to exploring disability and accessibility within the business landscape. Hosted by Business Leaders for Diverse Abilities, the disability affinity club at the Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor, this conference will be an enlightening experience for all attendees, both in-person and virtual. Dive into engaging panels that cover crucial topics such as the future of accessibility, entrepreneurship and closing the disability funding gap, and strategies for navigating recruiting and the business world with a disability and/or as an inclusive leader.

This conference is a unique opportunity to connect with thought leaders, innovators, and advocates shaping the future of inclusivity in business. Whether you're a student, professional, or an ally, you'll gain valuable insights and practical tools to foster a more accessible and equitable business environment. Don't miss this chance to be part of a transformative conversation that champions diversity and empowers individuals of all abilities.

Agenda

9:30-10:30 AM Registration and Light Breakfast

10-10:05 AM Opening Remarks from Thomn Bell

10:10 -11:00 AM Empowering Connection: Building Inclusive Workplaces Through ERGs
Panel: Kim B. Holmes, Sean Baker, Lauren Gaber, Ethan Otterstrom

11:10-12:00 PM Breaking Barriers: Navigating Disability in the Internship and Job Search
with Joelle Fundaro from the University Career Center

12-1:00 PM Lunch and Disability Resources Fair

1-1:55 PM Shaping Tomorrow: Inclusive Design and the Power of Accessibility
Panel: Kate Sonka, Jennison Asuncion, Emily Obert, Christy Vanek

2-2:50 PM Demystifying Disability: An Open Conversation with Dr. Okanlami and Zach Damon

3-3:50 PM Innovating Access: Founders and Funders Shaping Disability Ventures
Panel: Samantha Fernandez Keys, Regina "Gina" Kline, Varun Chandak, Pierre Paul

3:50-4:00 PM Final Remarks from Rebecca Cokley

4-5:00 PM Community Reception: Networking and Snacks

Accessibility Statement

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event environment for all attendees. We strive to provide an event that is welcoming, accommodating, and supportive of diverse accessibility needs. Please indicate on the registration form or contact us at blda-rossabilities@umich.edu at least a week in advance to let us arrange accommodations!

Venue Accessibility

Our venue is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for easy navigation. Accessible parking spaces are available upon request.

Assistive Technologies

We will offer CART captioning services and ASL interpreters (note: ASL services might be difficult to see over Zoom).

Dietary Accommodations

We are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies and are offering a variety of food options.

Other Accommodations

We provide a quiet space for attendees needing a break or a low-sensory environment. Nursing rooms at Ross are available upon request. Please do not wear strong fragrances to the conference!

Contact Information

If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please contact blda-rossabilities@umich.edu. We welcome your inquiries and will do our best to ensure your full participation in our event.

Please contact us if the price is a barrier to your in-person attendance.

Sponsors

Thank you to our generous sponsors, General Motors and the Ford Foundation, for making this event possible!