Dec 11, 2013 ... LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ... ored
to welcome you to the 38th Annual TASH Conference, ...
LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dear Friends, On behalf of the TASH Board of Directors, Conference Committee and TASH staff, we are honored to welcome you to the 38th Annual TASH Conference, A Movement United. Thank you for joining TASH’s vibrant, thriving community of stakeholders in our efforts to advance a common goal: equity, opportunity and inclusion in all aspects of life for people with significant disabilities. We are thrilled to be back in Illinois during such an exciting time of change and transition. The state’s focus on rebalancing resources from segregated to community settings, with employment as a priority outcome, and a renewed interest and commitment to inclusive education, are all great signs that life in Illinois for people with disabilities, their family members and their communities will become richer. We know from experience that such transitions aren’t easy, but the rewards are incredible. To our colleagues in Illinois, stick with it! We’re with you.
David L. Westling Board President of TASH
We look forward to continuing the conversation to achieve equal access for all, from education and transition planning to workforce development and community living. This year’s theme, A Movement United, is not about a single issue or aspect of a person’s life. It is about uniting to create more inclusive communities for all of us. Special thanks to the Conference Committee, chaired by Terri Ward, and the Local Host Committee, co-chaired by Kurt Schneider, Assistant Superintendent of Learning for the Community Consolidated School District 181 in Hinsdale, Ill., and Elizabeth Grace, self-advocate and Assistant Professor of Education at National Louis University in Chicago. We appreciate their hard work and guidance during the planning stages of the conference, as well as their active participation in Wednesday Workshops and concurrent sessions. Many thanks to all of our sponsors, especially those that have continued their support throughout the years. Their support allows TASH to make it possible for many participants to be here, including students, family members and self-advocates. Please make sure to share your appreciation of sponsors in the exhibit hall.
Barb Trader TASH Executive Director
We hope your conference experience provides valuable information, useful skills and tactics you can immediately implement, new friends and colleagues, and inspiration to drive your work throughout the year to come. We also hope you have chance to experience the great cultural attractions Chicago has to offer. And, don’t forget to save the date for the 39th TASH Conference in Washington, DC, December 3-6, 2014! Enjoy!
David L. Westling Board President of TASH
Barb Trader TASH Executive Director
TASH CONFERENCE / DECEMBER 11-14, 2013
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