On behalf of the members of the Board of Directors, it is my pleasure to personally invite you all to the 57th Annual International Conference of the Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA), Building Connections: Making Equity Accessible. Join us in sunny Orlando, Florida, February 17-20, to soak in information from three excellent keynote sessions and over 150 general sessions focused on topics of interest for individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and professionals that work in the field of learning disabilities and related disorders. Our exhibitors and networking sessions will round out the conference leaving you armed with information and energized to help your students, clients or yourself.
As my term as President comes to an end I cannot express how honored I am for the opportunity to lead this organization. There is still so much more to do, however, I am confident that the organization is in good hands going forward. I can’t say enough about the dedicated individuals who contribute to the mission of the organization, its history, and its longevity. There are many people for me to thank-the Staff, the Board of Directors, Professional Advisory Board, Conference Planning and Program Chairs and committee members, Committee Chairs and members and State Affiliate Leaders. Without this dedicated group LDA would not be able to accomplish its lofty goals. Support, Educate, and Advocate are the core components of the LDA mission and it has been an honor to serve as President during this time leading the development of a new strategic plan, increasing awareness of the myths of learning disabilities, hiring a new Executive Director, developing a new website, working on improved membership benefits, creating new partnerships as well as collaborating with an awesome staff and a passionate group of volunteers. Keeping the interests of individuals with learning disabilities across the lifespan is the foremost goal of everyone within LDA.
Imagine a world where all individuals with learning disabilities feel supported and included in society without barriers. In 2020 you can help this dream come true by joining the LDA movement to build a better future. While attending the conference is one of many opportunities, joining as a member at the state level, volunteering on a national committee or participating in LDA public policy initiatives are a few ways to start your journey. And I would be remiss without saying it also takes donation dollars to keep these interests in the forefront. Not only do our kids academic success depend on it but even more importantly their social and emotional health depend on it as well. By providing our kids the support they need, preserving the laws that protect them, training our professionals, and educating society about learning disabilities it will lift up our kids to be confident, independent adults who can advocate for themselves in any situation. At least that’s my dream for a better future and I hope it is yours too.
Thank you and I hope to see you in Orlando!
