AHEAD is offering the same high-caliber presenters and timely topics. The four in-depth Institutes cover a range of topics for disability service professionals, student affairs staff and administrators, and anyone working toward equity in higher education. AHEAD’s Management Institutes are facilitated by nationally-recognized faculty and offer opportunities for networking and individual support. While participants are traditionally limited to ONE two-day Institute for an in-depth focus on a specific topic, the virtual schedule allows energetic professionals to participate in more than one Institute this year.

As businesses continue to operate and/or reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many questions about how businesses can safely operate. The business model for many firms has been modified according to CDC guidance.

In this new way of conducting business, a key concern is how to also meet the needs of employees with disabilities that may be at higher risk as well as customers with disabilities. Join the webinar for a panel discussion with disability leaders, business owners, consultants, and professionals as we explore issues and share strategies, solutions, and resources.

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience complex age-related issues, including dementia-related disorders. Increased support needs can strain caregivers and existing community support systems. Massachusetts is working to enhance state systems, embed dementia knowledge into service networks, and deliver support services that are evidence-based. The presenters will discuss the Commonwealth’s unique approach to the diagnosis, care assessment and support, and training for people with dementia and IDD and their caregivers.

This webinar will explore how having a defined purpose drives our work, as well as discuss leadership styles, qualities of emerging leaders, and how to determine your professional “why” for the work you do.

With recorded sessions that focus on everyday strategies and live chats with presenters who can share tips about their areas of practice during the COVID-19 pandemic, this online conference is sure to give you innovative advice you can apply immediately with your students.

Expert presenters will discuss considerations for assessment, treatment, and collaboration on a range of clinical topics and populations within the elementary age group, including feeding and swallowing challenges, voice disorders, autism spectrum disorder and other social communication challenges, literacy and spoken language, apraxia, fluency, and speech-sound disorders. Sessions will also explore best practices for determining eligibility and providing school-based services. Each session will focus on strategies SLPs can put into practice right away to identify and target appropriate goals and supports to help achieve optimal success for school-age children.

Who should attend the Learning Disabilities Association of America conference?

• Teachers of special education and general education
• Counselors, Social Workers
• Para Educators/special education instructional assistants
• Principals and school administrators
• Psychologists
• Parents of children with learning disabilities
• Advocates
• Researchers, Medical and Mental Health Professionals
• Adults with learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• College student support personnel

This session will include concepts for communicating effectively and an overview for developing emotional intelligence. This webinar will explore how language can impact change, opportunities for critical conversations, and techniques for interacting with difficult people.

Abilities Expo is about bringing the necessary products and services together under one roof for the community of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, and healthcare professionals. It’s about introducing opportunities that can enrich your life …especially ones that you never knew were out there.

In this session, you will learn about your strengths, identify your interests, and develop/refine your skillset. The webinar will explore strategies for improving conversations with your supervisor, opportunities for career pathing, and methods for developing additional skills and expertise.