by Kenneth Semien Sr.
There is a progressive rhythm in motion within ACB, and more members are tuning in and getting in step. Are you interested in sharing your abilities and skill sets for the greater good of ACB? Do you have a desire to contribute in an effort to make a lasting impact on the lives of Americans who are blind or visually impaired? Do you believe that the combined efforts of all ACB members could cause ACB to become the premiere venue for people who have experienced vision loss?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, read below to confirm your eligibility and necessary commitment to become a member of the 2021 Class of ACB/JPMorgan Chase Leadership Fellows!
For the sixth consecutive year, JPMorgan Chase will provide full access to the ACB conference and convention for 5 ACB members who have demonstrated leadership abilities. This year’s recipients will enjoy the ACB conference and convention in a virtual setting and will join us in person for 2022 in Omaha. Get connected with previous classes of Leadership Fellows and meet other leaders from around the country. As a Leadership Fellow, you will be introduced to tools for success through participation in informative workshops, seminars and leadership development sessions that are sure to prepare you to serve well in future leadership roles within ACB, your local chapter, and your state or special-interest affiliate.
To be a qualified applicant you are required to meet specific criteria, including but not limited to the following three elements:
- 18 years of age or older
- Blind or visually impaired
- An ACB member in good standing (current on membership dues)
Eligible applicants must be endorsed by the president of their state or special-interest affiliate. Applicants are encouraged to be sure that they meet the award criteria before requesting that their affiliate president write and submit a letter of recommendation on their behalf. The application process for this award also consists of the submission of two letters and participating in an interview with a team of DKM committee members. Your letter of application should begin with your complete name; physical address; email address containing the applicant’s name, along with a home and cell number, then introduce yourself to the committee by including objectives in applying for the leadership award; a brief summary of your education and relevant experience; number of years of membership in ACB, as well as previous conventions attended, if any; description of one’s role as a leader; and examples of what you bring to ACB. The affiliate president’s letter of recommendation should address the applicant’s contributions to the affiliate, ACB and community organizations; and describe the applicant’s demonstrated leadership skills and leadership potential. Half-hour interviews will be scheduled for mid-April.
All recipients will receive complimentary general conference and convention registration. Recipients are expected to attend the convention from Friday, July 16th through Friday, July 23rd, and to participate actively in all designated convention activities, including the daily general sessions, special-interest presentations, seminars and workshops.
Send application documents to Kelly Gasque in the ACB national office, [email protected]. Deadline for receipt is April 5th. Selected awardees will be notified during the latter part of April. Questions regarding the application process and required documentation should be directed to DKM chair Kenneth Semien Sr., [email protected]. Other beneficial information will be shared once your application has been received. Apply today to take advantage of this grand privilege.