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VIDBE-Q Volume 63 Issue 2
deafblindness go without needed services.
Dr. Landa Vialard has been a frequent visitor to legislators to provide information about
and seek support for the Cogswell-Macy Act. Whether it is in Washington D. C. or a local
office in Illinois, Dr. Landa Vialard can provide factual information that supports the stories
and heartfelt pleas of the parents and students who are the constituents of federals
members of the House and Senate. When she travels at her own cost to a legislator's
office to meet, she often will Skype and Facetime in families who cannot attend in person
so that they are equally represented. I have seen her quickly give her facts and then
support those who may be nervous about talking to legislators, but have important stories
to share. At conferences, Dr. Landa Vialard also does informative sessions on Cogswell
Macy and hosts booths where participants can write letters to their legislators. Her efforts
are starting to pay off in Illinois. Recently, language was approved making DeafBlind
Interveners a related service in Illinois, and this action was related to Section 3 of
Cogswell Macy! This is now making DeafBlind Intervention an option for students with
deafblindness in Illinois.
When Gary Mudd, the Vice President for Public Affairs at the American Printing House
(APH) learned of Dr. Landa Vialard's efforts, he asked for her assistance in locating
stories, quotes and pictures from people who use APH products in order to advocate for
an increase of quota funds. Dr. Landa Vialard has been spreading the message to all of
her many contacts, since she believes in the mission of APH and knows their work
supports the education of children and youth, and the families and teachers in their lives.
Dr. Landa Vialard also supports individual families and students through pro-bono
work as an advocate. She has attended IEP meetings and done assessment review in
