2015 CNIB National Braille Conference
Braille +
October 29 & 30, 2015 at Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Presenter Biographies
Monali Malvankar
Assistant Professor, University of Western Ontario
Presenter: Low-Vision Rehabilitation Strategies: A Systematic Review and
Meta-analysis
Monali Malvankar works as an Assistant Professor with
the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and
Department of Ophthalmology, Schulich School of
Medicine and Dentistry, Western University in London,
ON. In 2011, she received her PhD in Health Care
Management Science from the Richard Ivey School of
Business, Western University in London, ON.
Her research interest focuses on healthcare analytics
and economic evaluations using various mathematical and statistical
techniques that she has learnt throughout the course of her bachelor’s,
master’s and doctoral degrees, which are focused on quantitative methods.
Her dissertation investigated the impact of using incentives in a multi-level
allocation process of HIV prevention funds that often traverse several levels
of distribution and decision-making. Decision-makers at each level often use
equity-based heuristics that may lead to sub-optimal allocation of prevention
funds. She investigated dynamic programming to encourage optimal
allocation by modelling an incentive scheme that characterized the optimal
solution to the resource allocation problem (published in Health Care
Management Science and Information Systems and Operational Research).
Prior to enrolling in Ivey’s PhD program, the hands-on experience in SPSS
and SAS that she received at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) was
applied to develop a logistics regression model to optimize costs and profit
by subcontracting operations in Indian textile industries.
At the Western University, Department of Ophthalmology, her research
focuses on systematic reviews, meta-analysis, and economic evaluations of
ocular treatment. A meta-analysis (published in PLoS ONE) and costeffectiveness analysis (published in the Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology)
by Dr. Malvankar received positive encouragement and interest from the
Government of Ontario with respect to its findings. She conducted a cost
analysis to evaluate various treatments, including iStent, Trabectome,
endocyclophotocoagulation (ECP), and medical therapy for glaucoma
patients (published in the Journal of Glaucoma, in Top 10 Publication list of
World Glaucoma Congress, 2013) was recognized by the Canadian
Ophthalmology Society (COS) as the recipient of its 2013 Stephen Drance
Award for Excellence in Glaucoma Research and 2014 COS Award of
Excellence.
Dr. Malvankar has four active grants from the Canadian National Institute for
the Blind (CNIB), Glaucoma Research Society of Canada and Lawson Health
Research Institute and has received in total seven grants including Canadian
Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and the Academic Health Science
Centre (AHSC) Academic Funding Plan (AFP) Innovation Fund. Since 2011,
she has published twelve refereed journal articles in high-quality peerreviewed journals, a refereed conference proceeding and a business case
through Ivey Publishing. She has also worked on seven journal manuscripts
(under review), nine journal manuscripts (under preparation), 16 invited
presentations and 50 conference presentations. During the course of her
career, she plans to achieve excellence in the area of healthcare analytics,
systematic reviews, meta-analysis, and economic evaluations.
In addition to her work as a published researcher, she supervises/cosupervises five master’s students and 12 undergraduate students and serves
as a member of a supervisory committee that oversees eight master’s
students. She has acted as a thesis examiner for one PhD candidate and four
master’s degree candidates.
Apart from conducting research, she has been engaged in teaching at
various levels following her master’s degree. She taught two courses in
quantitative methods at Gujarat University, India, in 2004-2005, a course in
Operations Management at King’s University College, Western University, in
2008-2009, and taught a course in Advanced Health Economics at Western
University, in 2013-2014. She also designed/developed and taught a new
course on Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis in the Department of
Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Western University in 2014-2015. She has
conducted several guest lectures at Western’s Department of Epidemiology
and Biostatistics during 2011-2013. She found the case-teaching and casewriting workshops offered by the Richard Ivey School of Business to be
highly productive, and her participation in these workshops during 20072008 resulted in a published case study (Nokia India: Battery Recall
Logistics, Ivey Publishing, which was the Finalist in the Decision Sciences
Institute Best Case Studies Award Competition, 2009).
Andy Keyworth
Accessibility Specialist, T-Base Communications
Presenter: 102. Accessibility Trends in Corporate Communications
Andy Keyworth combines over a decade of Web
development experience with strong research and
communication skills. He has designed, developed,
tested and managed Web sites, databases and Web
applications for numerous clients. Andy has
extensive knowledge of web standards and
technologies including Web Content Accessibility
Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, eCommerce, Search Engine
Optimization (SEO), and Content Management
Systems (CMS). He has researched and written strategic reports on these
topics, and has delivered training and critical advice on their
implementation.
Bonnie Read
Braille Transcriber and Instructor, Saskatchewan Alternate Format Materials
Library
Presenter: 103. FIRM: Formatting the Infrequent or Rare Materials
Bonnie Read is a certified braille transcriber in Literary
and Mathematics, certified transcriber in UEB, and a
certified braille instructor. She has been a braille
producer, primarily for Saskatchewan Education, since
1988. She is a member of Braille Literacy Canada
(BLC) and National Braille Association (NBA); and
served as a member on the board of directors for the
Canadian Braille Authority (now BLC). Bonnie has
attended the CNIB National Braille Conferences since
1990 and has been a presenter for several years. She is the Chair of the
Braille Authority of North America (BANA) ELMP (this needs to be spelled
out) Committee. Bonnie currently serves on the Review Committee for
BANA UEB Formats; on the Canadian UEB Technical Standards Committee;
and as an observer on the UEB Braille Maintenance Committee.
Dan Weirich
Vice President of Strategic Programs, Ai Squared
Presenter: 104. It’s Here! The Newest ZoomText!
Dan Weirich co-founded GW Micro in 1990, an assistive
technology company which is the creator of Window-Eyes.
In May of 2014, Dan joined Ai Squared and has continued to
utilize his knowledge of the low vision and blindness
community and is now focusing more on the sales side of
the business. As part of Ai Squared, he presents the entire
Ai Squared product line including Window-Eyes, at several
blindness-related conferences throughout the world,
meeting with various AT evaluators, counselors and end-users. Dan is a
former member of the Board of Directors of ATIA, the Assistive Technology
Industry Association.
Dr. Ana M. Juricic
Low Vision Optometrist, The Clearview Institute
Presenter: 105. Smartphones, Tablets and Apps: What’s New and What You
Need to Know
307. Wearable Technology ... What’s all the Touch, See, Hear
about
Dr. Ana Juricic is a leading authority and educator in the field
of Low Vision in Canada. Over the last 19 years, Dr. Juricic
has helped thousands of individuals maximize their vision
through the use of specialized glasses and vision aids. As a
Low Vision Optometrist she is able to help patients living with
vision loss see again so they can read the paper, watch TV
and identify people’s faces. Many of the patients she has
helped have eye conditions such as macular degeneration,
Stargardt’s, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, albinism, rod/cone dystrophy,
optic neuropathy and retinitis pigmentosa.
Dr. Juricic graduated from the University of Waterloo, School of Optometry
in 1996. She is currently the Director of the Low Vision Clinic at the
Clearview Institute in Toronto and only sees patients with vision loss.
Several times a year, you will find Dr. Juricic lecturing to health care
professionals and the general public in Canada and in the US of the
advancements and help that is available for those living with vision loss
especially in the area of advancing technologies.
Dr. Juricic is the proud mother of four young children who keep her and her
husband very active. Dr. Juricic has participated in the Foundation Fighting
Blindness Cycle for Sight on a tandem bike with her visually impaired cycling
partner since 2012. Cycle for Sight is an annual fundraising cycling ride
from Toronto to Collingwood/Blue Mountain. For the last two years, she has
been the co-chair of this great fundraising event that supports vision
research. Dr. Juricic has previously been a Regional CNIB committee
member and is a supporter of CNIB.
Hu Jin
R&D Director, Sunrise Social Develop Center
Presenter: 106. Non-vision Photography & Tangible Image
Hu Jin is a senior special educator with more than
30 years teaching experience in special education.
He has been engaged in research and
development in blind tactile perception for more
than 20 years and has won many national awards.
International academic experience
2004 - blind education academic exchanges in Britain
2013 - participated in the International Conference on Asia-Pacific Institute
for the visually impaired and gave a speech on the topic of "threedimensional massage tester" design and teaching.
Chen Yao
Executive Secretary-general, Sunrise Social Develop Center
Presenter: 106. Non-vision Photography & Tangible Image
Chen Yao is an assistant manager in R&D Center with more
than 10 years in NGO field, focusing on people with vision
loss. She holds a Master’s Degree in applied psychology.
Senior counselor
Lucia Bellafante
Itinerant Vision Teachers, Toronto District School Board
Presenter: 107. Empathy through Knowledge and Understanding
Lucia Bellafante graduated in 1987 with her Association
Montessori Internationale and in 1991 graduated from
York University with her Bachelor of Education. Since
graduating she has acquired both her Primary Specialist
and Specialist as a Teacher of Students who are Blind.
With over 24 years of teaching experience working with
students of various ages and capabilities, Lucia
continues to be passionate about teaching, always
collaborating with colleagues, and bringing a fresh
approach to her role as an Itinerant Vision Teacher.
Ellen Kim
Presenter: 107. Empathy through Knowledge and Understanding
Ellen Kim received her Bachelor of Education in 2006 from
OISE at the University of Toronto. After acquiring her
Specialist as a Teacher of Students who are Blind, Ellen
was the lead teacher of the Blind Low Vision Program at
Hollywood Public School, Toronto. Currently working as an
Itinerant Vision Teacher, she continues to be a passionate
and resourceful educator who enjoys collaborating with
colleagues.
W. Ross Macdonald School Staff
 Pam Petrella, Life Skills Instructor
 Heather MacNeil
 Jessica Kuranc
 Michelle Wilson
 Tracie MacPhee
Presenters: 108. Discovering Everyday Opportunities in My World
(Thursday a.m.)
Coming from various backgrounds - Vision Rehabilitation Therapist,
Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Developmental Services Worker, Child
and Youth Worker, Social Worker, Educational Assistant and Recreation and
Leadership- Each instructor has 15-21 years of experience, knowledge and
education to service the low vision and blind population at the W. Ross
Macdonald School. These instructors teach students between the ages of 5 21 years old with various eye conditions, physical and developmental
disabilities and use a creative approach to help students reach their
individualized goals.
Robert Pearson
Director, Accessible Digital Media, Accessible Media Inc. (AMI)
Presenter: 109. Making Accessible Media for all Canadians
Robert is the Accessibility Officer for Accessible Media
Inc. (AMI) in Canada and has been functioning,
influencing, and engaging in the accessibility industry
since 1999.
Robert joined AMI in April, 2011 as Director, Accessible
Digital Media responsible for leading AMI's efforts to
improve the accessibility of digital media, develop and
manage AMI's relationships with likeminded and accessibility focused
organizations and to liaise with the Canadian Radio-television and
Telecommunications Commission on various initiatives. In his role as
Accessibility Officer, Robert's focus is on establishing and maintaining AMI as
a leader and standard bearer on media accessibility by setting and
influencing accessibility standards and best practices, shaping organization
policies and practices and encouraging the development of technology and
industry solutions that contribute to creating an inclusive environment within
AMI and with their external partners.
Prior to joining AMI, Robert was the Manager of Accessibility for a major
Canadian financial institution and was a member of the Ontario provincial
government’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
Information and Communications Standards Development Committee. He is
a frequent speaker at industry conferences on behalf of AMI and has
published numerous articles. Robert is a community builder and a passionate
advocate for accessibility.
Bob Minnery
Manager, Alternate Education Resources Ontario (AERO), Ministry of
Education, W. Ross Macdonald School
Presenter: 110. The Big Easy: Create Accessible Documents
Bob Minnery has been the manager of Alternative
Educational Resources Ontario (AERO) at the W. Ross
Macdonald School for the Visually Impaired and
Deafblind in Brantford Ontario for 15 years. Before
managing AERO Bob was a Program Coordinator for the
Canadian Deafblind Association in Ontario. Bob is also a
self-proclaimed historian and tour guide for the city of
New Orleans. Want to know where to go to get good
gumbo and hear great music? Just ask him.
Christopher Marshall
Manager, Provincial Resource Centre for the Visually Impaired (PRCVI) and
Accessible Resource Centre-British Columbia (ARC-BC)
Presenter: 201. UEB Instructional Strategies
Christopher started teaching in the UK in the early 1990’s
after a successful career in the arts. His first position was as a
teacher in a special school for children with severe learning
difficulties.
Chris went on to take an Advanced Diploma in Psychology and
Special needs (Visual Impairment) at the Institute of
Education in London leading to Qualified Teacher for Visual
Impairment status (QTVI). He joined the Physical and Sensory service in
Kent and worked as a visiting VI teacher before moving into a more strategic
role as Inclusion Coordinator for VI. He moved to Canada in 2006, initially
working as an education consultant for visual impairment with REACH in
Alberta, a multi-disciplinary assessment and consultation service; in 2010 he
moved to British Columbia and worked for one year with SET-BC before
taking up the position as manager of PRCVI and ARC-BC. Chris is currently
the Chair of the Canadian Association of Education Resource Centres (CAER).
Over the last couple of years he chaired a CAER subcommittee looking at
developing a Canada wide coordinated approach to UEB implementation
within the Education sector. He is currently chairing a National UEB technical
standards committee working on developing constancy in style and
formatting between all major Canadian braille producers.
Jennifer Jesso
Outreach Coordinator, Provincial Resource Centre for the Visually Impaired
Presenter: 201. UEB Instructional Strategies
Jennifer completed a Bachelor of Arts in English in 2005 followed by a
Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education with a specialization in
learning disabilities in 2007, both at Simon Fraser University. She completed
a Master of Arts in Special Education with a specialization in teaching
students with visual impairments at the University of British Columbia in
2014. She is currently working on completing the Braille Transcriber
certification. After a short period working as a teacher on
call, Jennifer has worked with children and adults with visual
impairments in various roles over the past eight years,
including as an itinerant vision teacher in the K-12 school
system, as an instructor at Vancouver Community College’s
Program for Visually Impaired Adults and as an Assistive
Technology Specialist with CNIB. Jennifer currently works at
the Provincial Resource Centre for the Visually Impaired as
an Outreach Coordinator. She is also an active volunteer with
advocacy organizations, serving as past National Secretary with the Alliance
for Equality of Blind Canadians and as a current committee member with
Braille Literacy Canada.
Jason Fayre
Accessibility and Adaptive Technology Specialist, CNIB
Presenter: 202. Overview of Android Accessibility
409. What’s New in Windows 10 for Accessibility
Jason’s specialties include: assistive technology training and support, linux
administration and support, Windows desktop support, hardware
troubleshooting.
Jen Goulden
Quality Assurance Specialist, Crawford Technologies; Chair, Braille Literacy
Canada
Presenter: 203. Duxbury for Braille Users
406. Braille Literacy Canada: The Brailler Bounce and Other
Initiatives to Promote Braille Literacy
506. Sighted Parents Raising Blind Kids
Jen Goulden has ten years of experience in the field of
document accessibility with the Government of
Canada and then as a consultant with Crawford
Technologies. She holds a Master's degree in
linguistics from the University of Ottawa and speaks
English, French and Spanish. She is also a certified
transcriber/proofreader of Unified English Braille
(UEB). Before joining Crawford Technologies as a fulltime employee, Jen worked for the Government of Canada as a human
resources advisor in employee performance management. Since 2008 she
has been a board member of Braille Literacy Canada (formerly the Canadian
Braille authority) and has been its president since 2011. In this capacity she
participates on various committees of the International Council on English
Braille and is also Crawford Technologies’ representative to the Braille
Authority of North America. She plays the piano, is an avid reader and loves
to travel.
John Rae
Human Rights Activist
Presenter: 204. Why Do Some Blind People Also Love to Travel?
John Rae brings a broad combination of community, government and union
involvement to all of his varied activities.
John took early retirement from the Ontario Public Service in 2005 after a
24-year career, during which time he was a Consultant with the Centre for
Disability and Work, an Education Officer with the Employment Equity
Commission, and prior to retirement, a Program Officer with the Accessibility
Directorate of Ontario.
He brought his community perspective to the Canadian labour movement
where he served in elective positions at the local, provincial and national
levels. Today, as a retiree, he remains a member of OPSEU's Disability
Rights Caucus.
During the past 40 years, John has been a board member of many human
and disability rights organizations, including Co-chair of the Coalition on
Human Rights for the Handicapped, which secured the first human rights
coverage for persons with disabilities in Ontario. John is a Past President of
the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC), the Canadian Legal,
Advocacy, Information and Research Association of the Disabled (CLAIR),
and PAL Reading Service.
John is now 2nd Vice Chair of the Council of Canadians with Disabilities
National Council, and Chair of its Social Policy Committee and is also a
member of the Boards of Directors of ARCH Disability Law Centre, Injured
Workers Consultants, and the Executive of the Association of Community
Legal Clinics of Ontario. He is also a member of the Canadian Museum on
Human Rights' Inclusive Design & Accessibility Committee, and the ODSP
Action Coalition.
John is also interested in world travel, history, live theatre, visiting museums
and art galleries, music and he writes and speaks frequently on a broad
range of disability and other human rights’ issues.
Julia Foster
Occupational Therapist, Coordinator, Vision Technology Service and SNOW,
Inclusive Design Research Centre
Presenter: 205. Ergonomics to Promote Health and Productivity when Using
Technology
401. When It’s More than Just Visual Access: How Technology
Can Support Individuals with Multiple Diagnoses
Julia Foster is an occupational therapist and ADP
authorizer for high-tech visual aids, which includes
assessment and prescription of assistive technology
for individuals with low vision or blindness, including
those who also have physical and/or cognitive
limitations. Julia co-instructs a third year course on
Ergonomics at the University of Toronto, and
coordinates the Special Needs Opportunity Window
(SNOW) online resource on inclusive education and
technology.
Marie Marion
Vision Teacher, Conseil Scolaire Catholique Providence
Presenter: 206. Geometry, Intermediate Grades
Marie Marion is passionate about educating the students of today for a
brighter tomorrow for everyone. She studied in Canada and in France and
has taught in the Northwest Territories as well as in Ontario. Marie is
certified from primary to secondary. She is a seasoned teacher with more
than 15 years of experience, many of them specializing in teaching
mathematics.
Marie began teaching blind and low vision students in 2012 and has since
become an outspoken advocate for removing barriers to education. Be it
through the use of technology or through good old fashioned hands on
learning, she believes comprehension and understanding of a new concept is
always within reach. Finding new ways to make learning accessible is an
ongoing passion.
Currently enrolled in an MPEd in the field of Aboriginal Education at Western
University, Marie holds an Honour’s BA, a BEd, and many more certifications,
such as Teacher of Students Who Are Blind, Special Education, and
Cooperative Education, to name but a few. A lifelong learner, she continues
to advance her own education in order to help others to do the same.
Amy Di Nino
Music Therapist at W. Ross Macdonald School
Presenter: 207. Music Therapy with the Partially Sighted
Amy was fortunate enough to be exposed to choral
music at a very early age, and began piano lessons
when she was five years old. Since then, Amy has
obtained degrees, diplomas, and certificates from
the University of Windsor, University of Toronto,
Humber College, and Berklee College of Music. She
is also a certified REMO HealthRHYTHMS instructor
and Kindermusik teacher
Currently, Amy teaches music and is the Music Therapist and conductor at
the world renowned W. Ross Macdonald School for the Visually Impaired,
Blind, & Deafblind, where she was the recipient of the 2012 Premier's Award
for Teaching Excellence in Ontario. She is also the Artistic Director of the
Millennium Choral Organization, Music Director/organist at St. John's-on-thehill United Church and teaches piano, guitar, and voice in her private studio.
As a conductor, pianist, and percussionist, Amy has performed with
ensembles and symphonies, and as a soloist throughout North America and
Europe.
Additionally, Amy is also an arranger and composer. She has written works
for choirs, orchestra, chamber music, and songs both classical and popular.
Amy resides in Cambridge with her husband, drummer Domenic Di Nino.
Leading an active life, she competes in triathlons, plays in several soccer and
hockey leagues, and enjoys skiing and snowboarding. Travelling and
exploring new cultures and their music allows Amy to continually expand her
passion for the arts.
Darleen Bogart
National Braille Convenor, CNIB
Presenter: 208. Proofreading for Good Form
611. My How You Have Changed!
Darleen Bogart is a volunteer with CNIB and is CNIB’s National Braille
Convenor. She chaired the Unified English Braille Project Committee from
UEB's inception until the completion of the project in 2010. She serves as
the CNIB representative on BANA (Braille Authority of North America).
Louis M. Tutt
Executive Director, AER
Presenter: 209. The Way We Were – The Way We “AER”
Being Executive Director of AER is only the latest in an
illustrious career that started as a Motor Skills Teacher for
Deafblind children with rubella at the Michigan School for
the Blind in 1971. Since then, Lou has been a teacher of
children with multiple disabilities, a track & field/wrestling
coach, Principal at the Michigan School for the Blind,
Superintendent of the Missouri School and was President of
the Maryland School for the Blind from 1990 – 2003. In
1995 he was the recipient of the William English Leadership
Award by the Council of Schools for the Blind (COSB). Lou
also received the distinguished APH 2014 Wings of Freedom Award last
October.
Believing that “once a teacher…always a teacher”, and after his “retirement”
from Maryland, Lou accepted the position of Principal at the Colorado School
for the Blind until returning to the east coast and becoming the 5th AER
Executive Director in April 2011.
Martin Berrisford
Vice President of Technical Services, Frontier Computing
Presenter: 210. How to Use Index-Direct-Braille
Martin Berrisford has over 20 years of experience
installing, maintaining and educating people about their
assistive technologies. He is also an expert on braille
embossing technologies and is currently the product
manager for the Index line of embossers in Canada.
Leona Emberson
Specialist, Independent Living Skills, CNIB
Presenter: 301. Get Together with Technology Program: The Power of Peer
and Community Support
Leona Emberson has established herself as a professional,
an advocate and a resource for the blind and partially
sighted community. As a specialist for Independent Living
Skills at the Ottawa CNIB she supports individuals living
with vision loss to maintain and increase their
independence through one-on-one or group instruction.
She was a key member in the development of the Get
Together With Technology program; a program which
connects individuals with adaptive technology and the
peer support and training needed to learn how to use accessible features or
products. Leona also works part-time as a broadcast/reporter for AMI,
Canada’s first network providing fully captioned and described content of
interest to the disability community. In her spare time, Leona trains for
triathlons and was the first blind female to complete the Mont Tremblant
70.3 Half Ironman race. Through her involvement in the community Leona
has advocated for inclusive sports and recreation opportunities, and has
been recognized through various awards and certificates including the
Celebration of People Sports Award.
Kim Kilpatrick
Presenter: 301. Get Together with Technology Program: The Power of Peer
and Community Support
Kim Kilpatrick started the GTT (Get Together With Technology) program in
Ottawa in 2012. She started this program so that people who are blind or
have low vision can learn from, and teach each other, technology. Since
then, this program has grown and expanded.
Kim is a Music Therapist, Professional Storyteller, Radio Show Co-Host,
Disability awareness and access technology trainer.
Mary Ann Marchand
Specialist, Independent Living Skills, CNIB
Presenter: 303. Clever Uses of Small Appliances and Household Gadgets
Mary Ann received her BA in Geography from the University
of Guelph and worked for CNIB for three years before taking
10 years off to be home with her four children.
When she was ready to get back into the workforce, CNIB
needed another Independent Daily Living Skills Specialist, so
she got her CVRT certificate.
Some of Mary Ann’s hobbies are gardening, researching
things via the computer, trying out new appliances and
going for walks in the nice weather.
Dominic Gagliano
VP Sales, HumanWare
Presenter: 304. Case Study on How New Reading Aids Benefit Seniors for
Sustained Reading
608. iPad + Assistive Technology = Growing Student Success in
the Classroom
Dominic Gagliano, VP of Sales for HumanWare, has 26
years of experience in the assistive technology industry. He
has conducted many training workshops, seminars and
presented at many international disability and assistive
technology conferences such as AER, AFB Leadership,
CSUN, ATIA and Closing the Gap as well as numerous
regional conferences throughout the US and Pacific
Regions. He serves on the board for the Deaf Blind Citizens
in Action and currently manages all sales and marketing
activities for blindness, deaf blind and low vision for HumanWare in the US
and Canada.
Michel Pepin
Corporate Key Account Manager, HumanWare
Presenter: 304. Case Study on How New Reading Aids Benefit Seniors for
Sustained Reading
608. iPad + Assistive Technology = Growing Student Success in
the Classroom
With just over 12 years of experience in the Assistive
Technology market, Michel comes from a sales and
marketing background. Working with HumanWare for
the last 12 years, he has worn multiple hats within the
organization. Hired as a market development manager,
back then with Visuaid, Michel’s role was to develop the
distribution channels in Canada for the Victor Reader
line of products notably working with the CNIB
Canadian offices and Patrons during the Daisy
conversion period. A strong advocate on the
importance and role assistive technology plays on a daily basis for people
living with vision loss, he has participated and spoken at multiple assistive
technology events and conferences throughout his career.
Bryan Wolynski
Optometrist, OrCam Technologies
Presenter: 305. OrCam – Wearable Innovation for the Blind and Visually
Impaired
Dr. Bryan Wolynski has been in the eye-care field for over 25
years. He is a 2000 graduate of the New England College of
Optometry and previously was a licensed optician since
1992. He completed a residency in Primary Care at NOVA
Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, is a Fellow
of the American Academy of Optometry, a member of the
American Optometric Association and is President of The
Optometric Society.
Dr. Wolynski currently maintains a private practice in New York City
providing primary eye care and low vision evaluations. He previously
practiced low vision at the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind. He also provides
mobile eye care to financially underprivileged children in Florida and vision
screenings for Babies and Pre-K children in New York City.
Dr. Wolynski has provided community outreach and education on the
importance of eye care to school administrations and government. Dr.
Wolynski has also presented cases at the Southern Council of Optometry,
the American Academy of Optometry and has provided continuing education
lectures for Optometrists, Opticians, professionals in the field of low vision
and the Association of School Nurses. He has recently spoken at the annual
International Technology and Persons with Disabilities Conference, the
American Optometric Association and Envision. Dr. Wolynski also consults
for OrCam Technologies.
Dr. Wolynski is committed to improving access to eye care, education, and
an advocate for meaningful and responsible technology.
Denis Rondeau
Music Teacher for the Blind, W. Ross Macdonald School
Presenter: 306. Teaching Music to the Blind using Braille and Technology
Denis Rondeau has been teaching music at the W. Ross
Macdonald School for the Blind for over 30 years. He has
presented at many workshops concerning teaching music
to the student who is blind.
At W. Ross Macdonald School, music staff incorporate
many teaching techniques and tools to share the
knowledge of music. These techniques include rote, hand
over hand, large print and music braille to name a few.
Solutions for delivery of the curriculum can be administered by using digital
media, reduced Music Braille format, digital large print reader such as
Limelighter and Leggerio, SMART BOARDS, recording and music notation
software such as LIME, GOODFEEL, SONAR and FINALE.
Denis is a freelance musician and uses this experience to translate the
industry to the music students. For more information about the W. Ross
Macdonald music program please contact Denis at
[email protected]
Ryan Jones
Senior Trainer, Freedom Scientific
Presenter: 308. What Does it Say? Access to Printed Text
403. Success in the Classroom with JAWS and Braille
Ryan Jones has been in the assistive technology training industry since 2005
and has done one-on-one training and group training in the United States
and abroad. From 2007 to 2010 he worked for a non-profit organization in
Washington, DC doing assistive technology training for the federal
government and several state rehabilitation agencies. Ryan also worked to
promote the use of assistive technology in several countries in the Caribbean
region and is currently work for Freedom Scientific where he teaches both
in-person trainings as well as online webinar trainings. He has presented at
several conferences including ATIA, CSUN, and in October 2014 presented at
the CNIB Braille Conference in Canada. In 2014, Ryan lead an effort to
create an audio based JAWS training system designed to bring quality oneon-one style training to JAWS users who may otherwise not be able to
receive timely training.
Ryan received his Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems Management
from Auburn University in 2003. Most recently, he received a Master’s
degree in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy from Florida State University in 2013
along with the Vision Rehabilitation Therapist certification from ACVREP.
Judy Dixon
Consumer Relations Officer, National Library Service for the Blind and
Physically Handicapped, The Library of Congress
Presenter: 310. Accessibility of the Apple Watch
510. Using an iPhone to Scan Text
Judith M. Dixon is Consumer Relations Officer at the National Library Service
for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress in Washington,
DC. During her thirty-four years at the library, she has been concerned with
all aspects of reading by people with print limitations. In recent years, the
advent of new technologies has brought about an increased availability of
information access through many types of assistive devices and services and
she has been in the forefront.
Dr. Dixon earned a B.A. from Stetson University, DeLand, Florida in 1974;
an M.A. from Adelphi University, Garden City, New York, in 1976; and a
Ph.D. in clinical psychology also from Adelphi in 1980. Dr. Dixon was the
2005 recipient of the Francis Joseph Campbell Award from the American
Library Association for her many years of excellent work in the field of library
service for blind and physically handicapped persons and for her pioneering
efforts in the area of electronic braille materials on the Internet through the
NLS service, Web-Braille. She was also the 2009 recipient of the American
Foundation for the Blind's Gallagher Award for serving as an outstanding role
model to others who have vision loss.
In addition to publishing numerous articles, she edited the volume "Braille
into the Next Millennium" published by the National Library Service for the
Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress in 2000. She served
as Chair of the Braille Authority of north America from 2007 through 2011
and Secretary of the International Council on English Braille from 2008 to
the present.
One of her hobbies is writing books for National Braille Press about things
that are important to her. These include braille and mobile devices. She has
authored or co-authored seven titles. They include: Label It! Braille and
Audio Strategies for Identifying Items at Home and Work; Get the Picture!
Viewing the World with the iPhone Camera; Anyone Can Play: Accessible
Games for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch; and Out and About: Our
Favorite Travel Apps.
Helen McMillan
Volunteer Mathematics Braille Specialist, CNIB
Presenter: 311. UEB Technical Material
Helen and Lorraine are CNIB volunteer transcribers and
instructors and are part of a team developing a selfdirected course for UEB Technical.
Lorraine Banks
Volunteer Mathematics Braille Specialist, CNIB
Presenter: 311. UEB Technical Material
Lorraine and Helen are CNIB volunteer transcribers
and instructors and are part of a team developing a
self-directed course for UEB Technical.
Phyllis Landon
Chair, International Council on English Braille (ICEB) Code Maintenance
Committee
Presenter: 402. How Do I Braille ...?
Phyllis has been involved in braille since 1975 when she enrolled in the
braille course as a volunteer for CNIB in Toronto. In the years since, she has
been involved in leadership positions with CNIB's volunteer transcribers, in
authoring Canadian teaching manuals for braille transcribers, in conducting
workshops on braille and as a member of the BANA Literary Technical
Committee.
Her involvement with UEB started in 1998 as a member of the Rules
Committee. She was its chair from 2006 until its dissolution in 2010. She
then assumed her current position as the chair of the ICEB Code
Maintenance Committee (CMC). The CMC is responsible for maintaining The
Rules of Unified English Braille. It operates primarily through email and is
comprised of members and observers from the eight member nations of the
International Council on English Braille.
Tommy Théberge
Accessibility Counselor, Medeo Group Canada
Presenter: 404. GUIDINO: Powerful Indoor GPS Solution for the Blind
Tommy Théberge has been working in the field of
accessibility and vision loss for more than ten years.
Living with vision loss, he has held various positions such
as clinical instructor and the head of an assistive
technology department in a rehab center in Montreal.
Tommy has developed innovative solutions such as
"Tactile maps of Montreal subway stations" and "DAISY
Full Text document with synthetic voice" with his team.
Tommy graduated in Practice of Rehabilitation at the
Medicine and Health Sciences Department of the University of Sherbrooke.
Maureen Reed
Associate Professor, Psychology, Ryerson University
Presenter: 405. Coping with the University Challenges for Students with
Disabilities: The Reasons for Going to University Matter
Maureen Reed, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of
Psychology and was the Director of the Learning and Teaching Office at
Ryerson University in Toronto for four years. She has expertise and interest
in higher education and methods to improve academic success for students
with and without disabilities. Her focus has been to examine success and
access to university for students with disabilities and has written several
articles and reports surrounding the challenges for students with visual
impairment and blindness. She has recently written a book chapter outlining
the challenges non-traditional university students face in educational
institutions and methods professors should follow to better reach all
students.
Betty Nobel
Past Chair, BLC and Teacher of the Visually Impaired for the North
Vancouver School District
Presenter: 406. Braille Literacy Canada: The Brailler Bounce and Other
Initiatives to Promote Braille Literacy
Betty Nobel is a native British Columbian. She has
been a braille user since age five, and still loves to
read and write braille. After graduating from Killarney
Secondary School in 1969, Betty attended UBC where
she graduated first with a BA and later with a diploma
in adult education and a MA in Higher Education. Betty
worked at Vancouver Community College for more
than 30years teaching adults who were blind and
visually impaired. She taught braille and computer
courses and was the Department Head for much of
that time. Currently, she is a teacher of the visually
impaired for the North Vancouver school district.
Her many volunteer activities include serving as the Past chair of Braille
Literacy Canada. Betty is presently the Vice Chair of the board of Accessible
Media Inc. She is on the board of Blind Beginnings and serves on the
executive of the International Council on English Braille.
During her career, Betty served as the Division Chair of Adult Basic
Education. She also worked as Special Advisor on Disability Issues for the
Ministry of Advanced Education. In the year 2000, Betty received the YWCA
Woman of Distinction award in the category of Education Training and
Development in recognition of her community work and innovative
educational leadership.
Aquinas Pather
Tactile Graphics Specialist, T-Base Communications
Presenter: 407. UEB’s Guidelines for Tactile Graphics
Aquinas Pather is the Tactile Graphics and
Transcription Specialist at T-Base Communications
where he advises on all matters related to tactile
graphics and braille to ensure adherence to BANA
standards both internally and externally. As an expert
in this area, he trains and mentors T-Base transcribers
on tactile graphics design and participates in customer
meetings. He manages tactile graphic production at TBase and represents the company on the BANA Tactile
Graphics Technical Committee which he currently
chairs. He has been instrumental in the development of instructional materials
for novice tactile graphics designers and transcribers and continues to support
the application of tactile graphics, braille and accessible communications
within the education sector, and is well known in North America by experts in
this area. Aquinas is a member of Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) where he
serves on the web committee. A certified braille transcriber and tactile
graphics instructor, Aquinas began working with braille and tactile graphics as
a volunteer at CNIB in 1993 and played a significant role in the initial
research stages of the development of tactile graphics guidelines. He served
as one of the Canadian representatives on the joint CBA/BANA Ad hoc
Committee on Tactile Graphics which spear-headed the creation of the now
published Guidelines and Standards for Tactile Graphics, 2011, and in 2013
received the Braille Excellence Award as a member of this group of dedicated
individuals.
Aquinas has contributed as an author for The Journal of Blindness Innovation
and Research and has peer reviewed for the Journal of Visual Impairment &
Blindness. He devotes much of his spare time as an advisor for software
development of design solutions for computer generated tactile graphics.
Karen Wood
Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist, Private Contractor with the
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board
Presenter: 408. Proprioceptic Techniques to Improve Cane Technique
Karen Wood is a Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist with a
B.A in Sociology and diplomas in both Youth & Childcare Worker
andRecreation Leadership.
She has been a private contractor in the field of orientation and mobility for
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board in Hamilton, Ontario since 1997.
Karen was also aninstructor in the Orientation & Mobility Program at Mohawk
College from 1993 to 2012 and anOrientation & Mobility Specialist with
Hamilton CNIB from 1989-1997.
Lars Ballieu Christensen
Adviser and Accessibility Consultant, Sensus ApS and Synscenter Refsnaes Danish National Center for Blind and Partially Sighted Children and Youth
Presenter: 410. Universal Access to Alternate Media
Lars Ballieu Christensen works with technology and
design for people with special needs. He advises
government, organizations, academic institutions and
companies on accessibility and inclusive design.
Furthermore, he is the inventor of a range of
innovative technologies that support inclusion and
self-sufficiency amongst people with special needs,
including the award-winning RoboBraille service. Lars
holds master degrees in computer science and
journalism, as well as a Ph.D. degree in computer
science, all from the University of Roskilde, Denmark.
Tanja Stevns
Sensus ApS and Synscenter Refsnaes - Danish National Center for Blind and
Partially Sighted Children and Youth
Presenter: 410. Universal Access to Alternate Media
Tanja Stevns works with education and technology to
support inclusion of people with disabilities. With
more than 20 years of experience working at the
Danish National Center for Blind and Partially Sighted
Children and Youth, Tanja is a special education
teacher and speech therapist, specializing in visual
impairment and general learning disorders.
Andrea Byers
Specialist, Orientation and Mobility, CNIB
Presenter: 501. Youth Programming Opportunities
Andrea started her career with CNIB in June of 2012 as a
duel certified Orientation and Mobility and Independent
Living Specialist. She received her post-graduate
certification from Mohawk College in 2008 (ILS) and 2010
(O&M). Andrea enjoys that each day on the job she is able
to work with a variety of different clients and use creative
solutions to solve new challenges. She finds it extremely
rewarding working with clients to help them accomplish
their goals after vision loss. In her spare time, Andrea
enjoys spending time at her family’s cottage and horseback riding.
Adam Dupuis
Specialist, Orientation and Mobility, CNIB
Presenter: 501. Youth Programming
Adam has been an O&M instructor for more than 15
years and most of those have been with CNIB in
Niagara. He works with all ages and provides
instruction to children attending both the public and
Catholic boards throughout the Niagara region. He also
works with guide dog users regularly and enjoy
teaching clients how to become as independent as they wish, relative to
O&M.
Daiene Verissimo
Specialist, Orientation and Mobility/Independent Living Skills, CNIB
Presenter: 501. Youth Programming
Daiene Verissimo started her career as an Early
Childhood Educator. She furthered her education by
attending Mohawk College and received her postgraduated certification as an Orientation and Mobility
Specialist. Daiene has been with CNIB for 20 years and
works with a variety of clients, of different ages and
needs.
Dave Wilkinson
Business Development Manager, HIMS Inc.
Presenter: 502. The BrailleSense U2: A Vital Tool in the Classroom
Dave Wilkinson is the National Education Manager for
HIMS, a leading manufacturer of blindness and low
vision assistive technology based in Austin, TX. Dave has
a B.A. of Fine Arts in History and Radio and a Masters of
Education in Student Personnel Administration in Higher
Education from New York University.
Dave is a lifelong user of assistive technology and has
over 15 years of professional experience in assistive
technology for the blind. He has presented at national and international
events on a wide range of assistive technology including refreshable braille,
braille mathematics, creating and accessing e-books and GPS for the blind.
During his personal time, Dave was a former cross-country skier, and since
2003 he has run numerous marathons and half marathons.
Karen Brophey
Content & Program Coordinator, CNIB Library
Presenter: 503. Readasaurus Literacy Kit
With more than 30 years of experience at the CNIB
Library, Karen’s primary focus is developing and
delivering services and programs for youth. She is
passionate about literacy, braille, advocacy and inclusion.
Michael Ciarciello
Computer Educator, Mab-Mackay
Presenter: 505. Breaking the Barrier of Inaccessible Music Softwares
Michael Ciarciello is an educator and computer instructor
at the Mab-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre in Montréal,
Québec. Mike teaches students who are blind how to use
screen readers (such as JAWS), scanning and reading
software (such as OpenBook), and other assistive devices
used by the blind, such as the PacMate. Mab-Mackay has
one very unique advantage in having Mike in this
position, in that it is the only rehabilitation center in
Québec which is able to offer specialized adaptive
technology training in music notation software (most notably with GoodFeel
and Sonar/CakeTalking), enabling them to effectively serve the needs of
blind music students and professionals.
Indeed, it is Mike's passion for music which has defined many of his personal
and professional endeavours over the years. Inspired by his grandfather's
love for the accordion, Mike was strongly encouraged to pursue his musical
interests by his family, ultimately learning the accordion, piano and guitar
before starting high school. In 1984, he was afforded an opportunity to
appear on Don McGowan's television show - and it was at this point that
music became a serious affair for Mike. His high school career saw him
joining various bands and winning numerous 'Battle of the Bands'
competitions, and learning about music in a more in-depth, theoretical
manner.
Mike's success in music led him, naturally, to pursue the program at Vanier
College during his CEGEP years as well, starting in 1990. He studied the
guitar in-depth, and Mike recalls Two of his instructors “Mark Fleury, Tony
Romadini,” stating at the outset that "just because you have a good ear,
that's fine, but I’ll teach you how to play properly - the proper way, the way
it was supposed to be done." In fact, up to this point, he had learned
everything he knew by ear, without ever having been taught much of the
theory, terminology, or technicalities behind it. After all, none of his earlier
teachers necessarily had any experience with a student who is blind, and
while they found ways to adapt their methodology to suit Mike's abilities,
this was a time when greater formality became necessary.
Crucial to Mike's success has been his learning and knowledge of music
braille. Mike asserts that knowledge of music braille is essential for serious
pursuers of the craft, in much the same way as knowledge of sheet music is
essential for sighted students. Many musical subtleties simply cannot be
accurately represented - and more importantly, communicated - in any other
way. That being said, at the time, resources were very limited, and it was
only through the tireless efforts of Mab-Mackay volunteers that Mike was
able to participate fully in the music program at Vanier, including Mable
Edgerton and Don, the security guard, who together spent several days each
week transcribing music into braille.
Looking beyond CEGEP to university, Mike was determined to pursue music
at Concordia University. University was a very different realm from CEGEP,
though, and the expectation was that he would have or find some way to
communicate his musical knowledge with sighted professors and peers. After
much reflection, Michael decided that, in spite of the odds, and in spite of
the challenges to be overcome, music was his passion, and he was going to
set out to prove to all those who doubted just what was possible. Of course,
in 1990, personal computers were only in their infancy, and to the extent
that any musical notation software existed, it certainly wasn't accessible to
someone who was blind. After years of searching for a solution (beyond
spending hours upon hours dictating musical scores by hand), Michael was
put in touch with a company called Dancing Dots, which was working on a
product called "Goodfeel," a braille music translator. This was, in fact, the
answer to Michael's number one impediment to the industry, as he was now
able to create a musical score and produce both braille and regular print
versions, so others could benefit from his labour.
Where does this leave Mike now? Happy and content to teach at the MabMackay Center during the day, play in his bands, direct and accompany his
church choir (and, more recently, teaching instruments such as the Guitar,
Piano, Bass, and vocal coaching, in private studio’s here in Montreal), Mike
has reached a point where he will, as he put it, "probably stay for the rest of
my life." Someday, when he retires from teaching at Mab-Mackay, his music
will still be with him. Speaking with Mike, you quickly realize that he is just
an ordinary, down-to-earth person who has taken a passion, overcome the
obstacles and barriers, and made a life he can be happy with out of that
passion. Sure, there are those who have taken pity on Mike (such as the
band that let him in, only to kick him out a few weeks later, admitting in the
process that they just couldn't have said "no" to the blind guy); and there
are those who have doubted that he could succeed. Sometimes that will
mean banging down a few doors and making a bit of a ruckus; at other
times, when Mike stumbles across a product or service that truly meets his
needs and is accessible to him, it means congratulating a company or person
for a job well done - whether or not its applicability and usefulness to a
person who is blind was, in fact, intentional. But to Mike, challenges are
meant to be overcome, and if you really want to make something work - if it
is truly your passion - then you will find a way to do it, sooner or later,
someway, somehow.
Ann Breen
Parent
Presenter: 506. Sighted Parents Raising Blind Kids
Ann Breen is the mother of two, now grown, children. Her
daughter, who is 25 years old, was diagnosed with Retinitis
Pigmentosa (RP) at age 4. Vision loss further added to her
daughter’s challenges of kidney failure/transplant and many
other symptoms which are part of Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
(BBS). The RP diagnosis is what confirmed the BBS diagnosis,
a complex genetically-inherited syndrome. Very little was
known about BBS in 1994.
During her daughter’s growing years, Ann‘s full-time job was parenting and
volunteer work. In 1998, Ann responded to a newspaper ad seeking
individuals who were interested in learning braille and willing to volunteer
their time transcribing books into braille for CNIB. Ann successfully
completed the nine month course and became a Certified Literary Braille
Transcriber in 1999.
At present, Ann continues her career as full-time mom. In recent years, she
added to her job title, graduating from George Brown College (GBC). Ann
attended the Intervenor for Deafblind Persons Program, graduating in 2012
with an honour’s diploma. In 2013, Ann earned an honour’s certificate in
American Sign Language and Deaf Studies, also from GBC.
Ann volunteers as a teaching assistant at GBC in the Intervenor Program
Braille Course and works as a supply Deafblind Intervenor and Educational
Assistant Deaf/Hard of Hearing with the Toronto District School Board. In
addition, Ann is currently serving a volunteer term as president of the
Intervenor Organization of Ontario.
Anne Goulden
Parent
Presenter: 506. Sighted Parents Raising Blind Kids
Anne Goulden is the mother of Jen Goulden who has been blind from birth.
Presently living in Waterloo, Ontario, the Goulden family resided in Welland,
Ontario at the time of Jen’s birth and until nine years ago. Jen was fortunate
to have been able to attend area schools during the time Bill-82 (universal
access to public education for all children) was being introduced into the
Ministry of Education’s curriculum in 1980. Although it was not an easy
process to gain access to area schools for Jen, it was done and at the time of
her graduation from Secondary School, Jen was the only braille-using
student to go through the entire Ontario Public school system, thanks in part
to a decision by the then Director of Education for Niagara South Board of
Education — Marv Townsend. Following graduation from Centennial High
School in Welland, Jen proceeded to the University of Ottawa where she
graduated from the Arts Program.
Many teachers, CNIB workers, and friends have contributed to the success of
Jen’s education and many difficult decisions were made along the way. Right
from the very beginning, my then unanswered question was “Am I doing the
right thing by keeping this child at home for her education?” … sometimes
you never know; but I do now.
Cheryl Hampson
Parent
Presenter: 506. Sighted Parents Raising Blind Kids
601. An Introduction to Braille for Parents
Cheryl is the parent of a son who lost his vision at the
age of four as the result of a brain tumour. Robert is
now 23-years-old and going to College in Kingston.
Their journey together took them through the twists
and turns of the medical system and the education
system. Sports and volunteer opportunities were
important in making Robert the person he is today.
Christopher McLean
Director of Public Affairs (Ontario) and Regional Director (GTA Region), CNIB
Presenter: 507. Path to Change
Christopher McLean works at CNIB as Director of Public Affairs,
and Regional Director, Services and Operations, for Ontario. In
this role, Christopher has supported CNIB’s advocacy efforts to
increase the availability of services for blind and partially sighted
Canadians. He has participated on a number of advisory
committees with the Government of Ontario on topics including
the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and
Intervenor Services for Ontarians who are deafblind. Before joining CNIB,
Christopher worked in public affairs and communications in the private
sector. His volunteer work includes the Board of Directors for Halton Family
Services, where he was Chair from 2008 to 2011. He has Masters Degrees in
both Journalism and English from The University of Western Ontario; and
attended McMaster University for a Bachelor of Arts degree. Christopher and
his family live in Milton, Ontario.
Debbie Gillespie
Coordinator, Accessibility and Braille Promotions, CNIB
Presenter: 508. Harmonizing UEB and BANA Format Guidelines
Debbie can best be described as an all-round
information hound fueled by a healthy dose of
curiosity. Her need to know drives her forward to
learn and investigate. She believes knowledge is
empowerment which enables people to make
informed decisions that affect their daily lives.
She is responsible for various projects, evaluating
and testing both hardware and software products for accessibility, as well as
other advocacy initiatives.
Previously, Debbie was Manager of Braille Publishing for the CNIB Library,
President of the Canadian Braille Authority and served as a Canadian
Delegate to the International Council on English Braille.
Darleen Bogart
National Braille Convenor, CNIB
Presenter: 508. Harmonizing UEB and BANA Format Guidelines
Darleen Bogart is a volunteer with the CNIB and is the CNIB National Braille
Convenor. She chaired the Unified English Braille Project Committee from
UEB's inception until the completion of the project in 2010. She serves as
the CNIB representative on BANA (Braille Authority of North America).
David MacDonald
President, CanAdapt
Presenter: 509. Introduction to the International Association of
Accessibility Professionals
David MacDonald is the president of CanAdapt Solutions Inc.
(can-adapt.com). He is a member of the IAAP Certification
committee. David is the only Canadian on the Web Content
Accessibility (is this dash correct) Guidelines Working Group
(WCAG) which is the web standard used in the AODA. He has been in the
disability accommodation field for 19 years and has provided direct
accommodations of employees with disabilities for TD Bank, Scotiabank,
RBC, the Government of Canada and numerous other large and small
organizations. He has provided accessibility training through the University
of Ottawa in English and French. David wrote the WCAG theme song and has
received over 40,000 combined views on YouTube.com.
Mina Sedaghatjou
PhD Candidate of Mathematics Education, Simon Fraser University - Faculty
of Education
Presenter: 511. Visualizing Pre-calculus Concepts
Mina Sedaghatjou is part of the faculty at Learning Centre in Douglas College
and doctoral candidate in mathematics education at Simon Fraser University.
Her primary research interests focus on the ways that digital technology
(e.g. iPad apps, GSP and GeoGebra) enhances thinking and understanding.
She strongly believes in embodied cognition and studies the role of the body
in learning mathematics in the area of touchscreen-based technology.
In addition to her other ongoing research, Mina recently started a new study
called “Issues and Aids for Teaching and Learning Mathematics to Visually
Impaired Undergraduate Students”. For this study, she explores and
innovates new/alternative ways of learning and visualizing advance
mathematical concepts and objects in the absence of sight.
Cheryl Worboy
Vision Resource Teacher, Durham District School Board
Presenter: 602. Roundtable: Switch Access and Software for Our Students
Cheryl Worboy is a Special Education Teacher with 19 years of experience
working with students who present with severe, profound and multiple
challenges in a variety of settings including small class placements,
mainstream classrooms and home-school/hospital settings. Technology and
access to technology have been key components to student success in the
Developmental Program Class which Cheryl has taught for the past 14 years.
She is currently a Vision Resource Teacher with the Durham District School
Board and works with blind and low vision students and their teachers who
have a variety of access challenges.
David Best
Accessibility IT Specialist, BEST Consulting
Presenter: 603. Vision through Digital Communications
As an IT Specialist and Accessibility Consultant, with
more than 30 years of working experience in
software design and development, project
management, diversity leadership, and disability
advocacy, David is persistent in seeking out
accessibility solutions to business challenges for
greater productivity gains and market growth. He
started his career with Air Canada as a software
engineer, and recently retired from IBM to focus
more time in supporting organizations with creating
accessibility business solutions and workplace best practices to help Ontario
achieve a fully inclusive society by 2025.
David's life experiences and IT knowledge skills have given him a unique
opportunity to advocate for disabled professionals. In January 2013 he was
appointed, by the Ontario Premier, to the Accessibility Standards Advisory
Council (ASAC), under the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development,
Employment and Infrastructure, to review and update the Accessibility for
Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). He also is on the advisory board for
some nonprofit organizations and universities.
Rob Nevin
Principal owner of U-R-Able
Presenter: 603. Vision through Digital Communications
Rob Nevin is Principal of U-R-Able.com, a Canadian
company focused exclusively in the support of persons
who are blind. U-R-Able works with blindness
organizations around the world in supporting clients with
emerging technologies. clients run the range of Educators,
Doctors, Lawyers, Developers, Administrative, Business
Executives, and call-center staff with the common thread
of wanting to increase their contribution to self, their work
and the organizations they support. Rob’s 30 year career history includes
executive and C-level positions in Information Technology within Private
sector, Government, Venture Capital and
entrepreneurial ventures.
James McCarthy
President, HIMS Inc.
Presenter: 605. On the Go with eBot
James McCarthy, President of HIMS Inc in Austin, TX.,
received his MBA from the American Graduate School
of International Management, was former founder and
President of Freedom Vision Inc. in Mountain View, CA.
He has worked in the assistive technology field since
1982. James has presented at various conferences
such as ATIA, CSUN and the American Academy of
Optometry. James is visually impaired and a long-time
user of video magnifiers.
Classy Cyborgs
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Lisa Andrade, Parent and Coach Chaperone
Linar Smigalob, Mechanical Engineering Student at Lassonde School of
Engineering, York University
 Nicolas Casali Mechanical Engineering student at Lassonde School of
Engineering, York University
 Classy Cyborgs Team: Logan Maier, James Andrade , Disha Prashar,
Isabel Neufeld , Jenna Pezzack, Sean Lloyd, Sammay Emamian,
Sebastian Villate, Vera Cotturo, Rhys Binnie
Presenters: 607. Treasure Box Braille - Learning for Children
The Classy Cyborgs is a team of 12-14 year
old boys and girls who are on a quest to help
solve the braille literacy crisis. Through a
research project that began in September
2014, the team from Lester B. Pearson P.S. in
Aurora, ON learned that only 10% of the blind
can read braille. The students’ immediate
question was “how can we improve the way
blind children learn braille?” Since millions of
sighted children enjoy digital learning games like LeapFrog and Disney
programs, the team felt that there must be a way to adapt these systems so
that children without sight can learn how to read with the help of a
computer. The Classy Cyborgs are now working with engineering students
from Lassonde School of Engineering at York University to develop tablet
based learning software for the visually impaired.
Achievements:
 Winners of the “Globalization Champion Award” of the CST Inspired
Minds Learning Project national competition
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Winners of the 2015 Applause Award with the York Region District School
Board
Winners of the “Best Innovation Solution Award” at York Region’s First
Lego League competition
Semi-finalists in the Global Innovation Award competition in St. Louis, April
2015
First Lego League Global Innovation Ambassadors
Creators of the Classy Cyborgs Blog: Inspiring Youth in Innovation
Adam Spencer
Head of Document Accessibility Services, Accessibil-IT
Presenter: 610. Revolutionizing PDF Accessibility
Adam Spencer is the Head of Document Accessibility
Services for Accessibil-IT Inc, a dedicated PDF
accessibility specialist. As an active member on a
number of ISO Committees for PDF and PDF
Accessibility, Adam was also an active contributor to
the development of the new international standards
to ensure the accessibility and usability of PDF and
adaptive technologies.
One of the major focuses for Adam is ensuring that
all content is completely usable and accessible for users of adaptive
technologies, including the development of accessible advanced mathematics
techniques within PDF.
Adam is also the Vice-Chair of the Canadian Advisory Committee on TC 171
and TC 171/SC2 PDF and PDF Accessibility for the Standards Council of
Canada.
Victoria Nolan
Special Education Teacher and Former Paralympian
Presenter: Sports panel
Victoria Nolan wanted to be a teacher ever since she was
five. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) at 18, she
went on to obtain a Master's in Child Study and Education
and became a special education teacher in 1999. She has
faced many challenges because of her RP, but it has never
deterred her from succeeding in her career or in competitive
sports.
True to her competitive nature Nolan has participated as a
competitive rower. After just one year of learning to row, Victoria made
Canada’s national rowing team. Victoria has competed in four World
Championships (Germany, Poland, New Zealand and Slovenia) and two
Paralympic Games (Beijing and London). In 2010 Victoria broke the world
record and she and her crew won gold. Her medal count now includes a
bronze, silver, and gold medal. She has been awarded female athlete of the
year, Oarswoman of the year and the Queen’s Jubilee Medal.
Although retired from rowing, Victoria is still competing with one of Canada’s
Olympic rowers (Sarah Bonikowsky Chaudhery) in tandem cycling, and
finished fourth in this year’s National Road Race.
Victoria Nolan teaches Special Education students in Grades 2 through 6 at
Gledhill Public School in the east end of Toronto.
Melissa Dermody
B.PHE, B.Sc, M.Sc, PT
Presenter: Sports panel
Melissa is a physiotherapist on the neuromuscular
team at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.
She has a Master’s degree in physiotherapy as well as
a Bachelor’s degree in Physical and Health Education
from Queen’s University. Melissa has worked with
pediatric clients with a wide variety of physical
disabilities throughout her career. She is certified in
Neurodevelopmental Treatment for pediatrics and has
a special interest in aquatic therapy. Melissa
participates in clinical research at SickKids and Holland
Bloorview, completes Changing Minds, Changing Lives presentations for the
Canadian Paralympic Committee, and is being trained to become a medical
classifier for para swimming. Melissa is passionate about promoting sport for
her clients and currently volunteers with a local swim team for athletes with
a disability
Dr. Virginia Duff
Presenter: Sports panel
Dr. Ginny Duff is a psychiatrist practising in Toronto. She went to Medical
School at Queen's University and did her Psychiatric training at McGill
University in Montreal.
Ginny works at St. Joseph's Health Centre, Toronto. As part of her practice,
she works with people who are struggling with vision loss to help them sort
out how they can live the life they want.
Ginny is legally blind. She is an avid downhill skier, sailor and cyclist. She
has skied competitively with the Ontario Disabled Ski Team and with the
Canadian Disabled Ski team.
George Quarcoo
Presenter: Sports panel
George was born fully sighted, but lost most of his vision
at the age of 9. He has never let his vision loss get in the
way of any goal, dream, or opportunity that comes his
way. George successful competed in the 2015 Toronto
Parapan Am Games and also co-hosted CNIB’s first
annual mini-games event in Toronto.