VIDBE-Q
Volume 62 Issue 1
The general session with Keynote Speaker Temple Grandin – a best-selling author, autism activist,
and role model for individuals with autism spectrum disorder - was filled to capacity with attendees excited to
hear the stories shared by Dr. Grandin and eager to learn how she, personally, overcame numerous
challenges to achieve her success. While books or video could have told her story, the group dynamic in the
room was unmatched. As participants walked away, numerous discussions continued well past the time of
the session.
In addition to the large general sessions, there were also a number of break-out sessions. In these
settings, leaders and presenters from around North America shared research, best practices, and policy
updates on a range of topics, all with a focus on supporting students and ways to assist them with opportunities
and growth. The small group nature of these sessions allowed participants to work together in learning, and
the variety of topics provided interesting content for a wide audience range.
Poster presentations, vendors, town halls, and division meetings allowed for meaningful interactions in
alternative settings addressing a number of diverse topics. The Division on Visual Impairments and
Deafblindness (DVIDB) business meeting and social hour allowed for members and students, alike, to
recognize leaders in the fields of visual impairments and deafblindness, networking as a united group of
professionals working towards similar goals for students with sensory disabilities. This time together
highlighted the impact that our DVIDB members have in advancing the education of youths with vision loss or
deafblindness.
Overwhelmingly, the conference provided excellent learning opportunities, recognition, and mingling
among a variety of cohorts – while leaving time for some group bonding and local fun in an exciting city, as
well. (Our student group from NLCSD had the chance to attend a baseball game at Busch Stadium and get
lost in the City Museum while we were in town!)
The experiences of a national CEC Conference are nonpareil. Whether you are a student, practitioner,
parent, administrator, or an individual with a vested interest in serving students with special needs, this
26
