by Dan Spoone
I want to welcome everyone to the 61st annual conference and convention of the American Council of the Blind for our first-ever hybrid gathering broadcast across ACB Media Network and in person in Omaha, Nebraska. In these unique times, the efforts of our members to pull together and present an outstanding event is a testimony to the passion and tenacity of our ACB family.
The theme of the 2022 convention is “Here, There and Everywhere!” This is a great theme for this year’s convention since today’s obstacles represent tomorrow’s opportunities. Making opportunities turn into successes for people who are blind or visually impaired is what our work at ACB is all about!
You will hear much more about ACB’s successes during what should be our busiest and most information-packed convention ever.
Every ACB convention relies on scores of volunteers who work to make this event possible. I want to personally thank the members of the Convention Committee, chaired by Janet Dickelman; the Convention Program Committee, and the ACB Media Network team.
Likewise, let me acknowledge the work of our Alexandria and Minneapolis staff. You are all fabulous!
Finally, a very warm welcome to those of you attending the ACB convention for the first time. This hybrid event will offer our members and friends a wonderful chance to experience a truly exceptional program in the comfort of your own home or in Omaha at the fabulous Hilton Hotel in the heart of the city. There will be over 25 hours of audio-described virtual tours, a robust vendor exhibit hall and amazing live tours, daily general sessions with knowledgeable presenters across the full range of issues that impact our community, and over 100 breakout sessions from our affiliates, committees and sponsors. This unique experience will shape our organization for years to come, and we can’t wait to get together in person or on the ACB Media Network.
Enjoy a great convention!