2024 Annual Convention
#NFBMN
November 1–3, 2024

DoubleTree by Hilton Saint Paul East
2201 Burns Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55119

Corbb O’Connor, President
National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota
2801 Hennepin Avenue, South #126, Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 872-9363, president@nfbmn.org
www.nfbmn.org

National Representative:
Gary Wunder
Editor, Braille Monitor
and President Emeritus, National Federation of the Blind of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. We know that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination, and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.

Registration

Registration is required to attend and participate in convention activities. Please consult the times in the agenda for when the registration desk will be open. On-site registration is available for $30. A limited number of meals are available at the following rates:

• Friday lunch: $25
• Friday dinner: $25
• Senior breakfast: $25
• Saturday lunch: $25
• Saturday banquet: $50
• Sunday breakfast: $15

Please also ensure we have your most current contact information, including your email address. If you do not currently receive The Braille Monitor—our national monthly magazine—please let us know, and we will sign you up.

Assistive Listening Devices

We will again offer assistive listening devices to make it easier for people with hearing loss to hear presentations. A transmitter is directly connected to the sound system, and small receivers can receive the signal throughout the meeting room. You can connect your own headphones to the receiver, or we can supply headphones. In addition, we have a couple of neck loops available that will allow the receiver to be heard directly by hearing aids with T-Coils.

If you have a need for such a device, after you arrive at the hotel, you can contact Rocky Hart at (218) 839-4544 or Katie Inman at (904) 660-4060 to make arrangements to check out a receiver. We ask that you give a $10 cash deposit that will be returned to you when the receiver is turned back in.

A Note about Service Providers

Deafblind individuals may be engaging Support Service Providers (SSPs) and American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. SSPs help with environmental information, communication, and orientation, supporting their clients in a self-directed manner. ASL interpreters assist with signing or communication facilitation. SSPs and interpreters are here to support their clients and are not convention participants. Please refrain from asking them to introduce themselves or join convention activities, so they can focus on their assigned tasks.

Gender-Neutral Restroom

We have coordinated with the hotel to have access to a hotel room that can be used as a gender-neutral restroom. Please stop by the registration desk or contact Elizabeth Rouse if you would like a key that can be used throughout the weekend.

Auction

One of our largest state fundraisers will again be our auction of services, some baked goods, and other donated items.

Based on feedback from past years, we’re shifting to a silent-then-live auction! Please stop by our table in the exhibits area and hospitality hour on Friday to drop off your items. On Friday evening during hospitality, drop by to preview the items and place your bids! The highest silent bid will become the first live bid when the item comes up for final auction on the floor of the convention.

Door Prizes

Prizes will be awarded throughout the convention. To be eligible, you must be registered and present in the room when your name is drawn. Donations should be brought to the tables in the ballroom before the start of Friday or Saturday’s general sessions.

Live Streaming

For those unable to join us in person this weekend, the convention will be live streamed using the Zoom platform. Please note that you will not be able to participate or vote via Zoom.

Join Zoom meeting: https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/93943281631
Meeting ID: 939 4328 1631
Passcode: 027888

You may also join by phone by calling (312) 626-6799 and enter the meeting ID and passcode above.

Vehicle Donations

The National Federation of the Blind uses car donations to improve the education of blind children, distribute free white canes, help veterans, and so much more. We have partnered with Vehicles for Charity to process donated vehicles. Please call (855) 659-9314, and a representative can make arrangements. You can also donate online by visiting www.nfb.org/vehicledonations.

Friday, November 1

9:00 AM–5:00 PM—Pre-Registration Packet Pickup & On-site Registration (McKnight Ballroom Foyer)

Muffins and coffee will be available. Those who pre-registered should pick up meal tickets and agendas.

9:00 AM–6:00 PM—Exhibits (McKnight Ballroom Foyer)

• NFBMN Silent Auction
• American Printing House for the Blind
• Conservation MN
• EZ2See®
• Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library
• Selvas BLV
• State Services for the Blind

 

 

9:30 AM-11:15 AM—General Session (McKnight 2)

• 9:30 AM, Call to Order
• 9:35 AM, A Grand Slam for Independence: The Skills of Blindness at the Ballpark—Cody Beardslee, Student Services Manager, Saavi Services for the Blind
• 9:50 AM, The Interviewer for Your Next Job Has One Question on their Mind: Do You Know What It Is?—Kevin E. O'Connor, CSP, CEC
• 10:10 AM, Secrets of the Saint Paul Wabasha Street Caves: Gangsters, Ghosts, and Hidden History
• 10:55 AM, Convention Logistics—Elizabeth Rouse, Convention Logistics Coordinator
• 11:00 AM, Building Opportunity Together: Fundraising through our Silent Auction—Charlotte Czarnecki and Tara Coyne, Co-chairpersons
• 11:05 AM, Announcements
• 11:15 AM, Adjourn

11:30 AM-12:45 PM and 2:00 PM-4:00 PM—Foundations of Freedom Training: Sessions 1 and 2 (Tartan III)

This training offers a deep dive into the transformative approach of structured discovery: the gold standard in blindness training. Filled with hands-on activities and rich information, participants will experience firsthand what it’s like to attend a structured discovery training center. Whether you’re a trainee or professional, you’ll walk away with key insights on how this method fosters true independence, problem-solving, and adaptability for blind individuals. Hosted by the Minnesota Center for the Blind.

11:45 AM-1:00 PM—Diabetes Advocacy in Action: Shaping a More Inclusive Tomorrow (McKnight 2)

Discover how the Diabetes Action Network (DAN) is advocating for accessible diabetes management tools and supporting blind individuals living with diabetes. We’ll explore key strategies for managing diabetes, including nutrition, exercise, and accessible technologies, while promoting health and independence. The Medical Device Nonvisual Accessibility Act will also be discussed, outlining our stance on inclusive design. Learn how you can get involved with DAN and join the movement to create a more equitable healthcare landscape for the blind community. Debbie Wunder, Facilitator and President, Diabetes Action Network

1:00 PM-2:00 PM—Lunch (McKnight 1)

A limited number of lunches may be available for those who did not pre-register. Please check with the team at the registration table.

2:00 PM-3:30 PM—Building Confidence through the Arts (McKnight 2)

Get ready to bring out your inner performer! Learn fun and engaging ways to build confidence that can carry you through everything from social gatherings to job interviews. This session will be full of practical tips and a few laughs as you learn how to put your best foot forward. No acting experience required, just a willingness to have fun and embrace the journey to greater self-confidence! Elizabeth Rouse, Facilitator

2:00 PM-3:30 PM—Owning Your Dignity (Tartan III)

This breakout will feature real life stories of how dignity can be taken away from us. We will deep dive into these situations in an interactive way with discussions and acting out scenarios   This is based off of President Riccobono's 2024 banquet speech. Cody Beardslee, Moderator.

3:45 PM-4:45 PM—Resolutions Committee (McKnight 2)

Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson

5:00 PM-5:45 PM—State Services for the Blind: An Ongoing Evolution (McKnight 2)

Learn about the latest news and updates from across the agency, including information on the recently obtained Disability Innovation Fund grant. Afterward, attendees are invited to a “town hall-style forum” where they are free to ask questions, share concerns, offer ideas for improvement, and suggest changes to the SSB administrative rule that governs vocational rehabilitation and independent living services (Minnesota Rules Chapter 3325). Hosted by Director Natasha Jerde and Deputy Director Jon Benson.

6:00 PM–7:00 PM—Casual Dinner with Cash Bar (McKnight 1)

Join your federation family for a fast, casual, and affordable dinner with a cash bar.

7:00 PM–8:00 PM—Pre-registration Packet Pickup & On-site Registration (McKnight Ballroom Foyer)

 

7:00 PM-8:00 PM—Demanding Equal Access: A Conversation for Minnesota Guide Dog Users (Tartan II)

Join Minnesota guide dog users and prospective handlers as we discuss our recent rally in San Fransisco, where we demanded that Lyft and Uber drivers fully accommodate guide dogs and blind people. National representatives Debbie and Gary Wunder will share their experiences and the steps we’re taking to enforce these rights. We’ll also explore challenges faced by guide dog handlers in Minnesota and discuss the formation of a dedicated guide dog user group in the affiliate. Briley O’Connor and Aida Talic, Co-Facilitators.

7:00 PM-8:00 PM— Belonging Matters: Creating a Culture of Inclusion and Connection (Tartan III)

In this session, we will explore the importance of belonging through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through conversation, we will discuss how belonging leads to meaningful connections and lasting commitments. Participants will leave with actionable insights on how we can each contribute to building an equitable and inclusive community where every voice is heard, and everyone belongs. Kotumu Kamara, Moderator

7:00 PM–8:30 PM—Annual Meeting of the Minnesota Association of Blind Students (McKnight 2)

Ben Zheng, President

7:00 PM–8:30 PM—At-Large Chapter In-Person Meeting (Tartan I)

David Andrews, President

8:00 PM–11:00 PM—Hospitality and Silent Auction (McKnight 1)

Join the Metro Chapter for a fun evening of meeting others from around the state. There will be additional snacks and a cash bar.

Dream Makers Circle

You can help build a future of opportunity for the blind by becoming a member of our Dream Makers Circle (DMC). It is easier than you think. You can visit your bank and convert an account to a P.O.D. (payable on death) bank account, which is payable after your passing to our organization. Your legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota can be made in the form of a will or living trust, an income-generating gift, or by naming us as the beneficiary of a retirement plan, IRA, pension, or a life insurance policy. You can designate a specific amount, a percentage, or list NFBMN as one of several beneficiaries. For additional information, please call Patti Chang at (410) 659-9314 x2422 or email PChang@nfb.org.

Saturday, November 2

6:40 AM–7:00 AM and 8:30 AM-11:30 AM—Pre-registration Packet Pickup & On-site Registration (McKnight Ballroom Foyer)

 

7:00 AM—Seniors in Charge! Breakfast and Annual Meeting of the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota Seniors Division (McKnight 1)

Join us as we collaborate on topics for our upcoming winter meetings, ensuring they reflect the needs and interests of our older members experiencing vision loss. We’ll also hear from Ed Lecher, Director of the Senior Services Unit at State Services for the Blind, who will share about the services available for seniors. Judy Sanders, President

9:00 AM–12:00 PM—General Session (McKnight 2)

Coffee will be available in the back of the room.

• 9:00 AM, Call to Order
• 9:05 AM, Welcome to Saint Paul—Steve Sawczyn, President, NFBMN Metro Chapter
• 9:10 AM, Report from our National Office—Gary Wunder, Braille Monitor Editor and NFBMO President Emeritus
• 9:40 AM, Launching the Minnesota Braille Challenge—Colleen Feller, Director, SparkPath & HR Director, BrightWorks
• 9:50 AM, Meet our Joyce and Tom Scanlan Scholarship Winners: Majed Alhuwayri and Aida Talic—Steve Jacobson, Scholarship Committee Chairperson
• 9:55 AM, Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library: Moving Into the Future, the Sequel —Catherine A. Durivage, Library Program Director, Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library
• 10:10 AM, Who's Listening? Influencing the Bureaucrats—Judy Sanders, Chairperson, Minnesota State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind
• 10:25 AM, The Path to Eliminating Subminimum Wages: Current Outlook and Session Strategy—Jillian Nelson, Community Resource and Policy Advocate, Autism Society of Minnesota and Co-chairperson, Minnesota Task Force on Eliminating Subminimum Wages
• 10:40 AM, Minutes from our 2024 State Convention—David Andrews, NFBMN Secretary
• 10:50 AM, Advancing Access: Mobile Devices, AI, and Meta Glasses—Steve Sawczyn, NFBMN Vice President
• 11:05 AM, Leading with Innovation: Strengthening the Randolph-Sheppard Legacy for Blind Entrepreneurs—Mike Colbrunn, NFBMN Board Member and Second Vice President, National Association of Blind Merchants
• 11:15 AM, Sip & Savor: The Ultimate Soda Showdown—in partnership with Northern Soda Company
• 11:35 AM, Auction & Announcements
• 12:00 PM, Adjourn

12:15 PM-1:45 PM—Minnesota Center for the Blind Luncheon (McKnight 1)

We invite all BLIND, Inc. alumni, former staff, and supporters to join us for lunch. Executive Director Briley O'Connor and Board Chair Carla McQuillan will provide a detailed overview of the organizational assessment, share updates on what is next for the Minnesota Center for the Blind, and discuss ways to get involved. Come for the updates, stay for the great company and conversation!

2:00 PM–3:20 PM—General Session (McKnight 2)

• 2:00 PM, Call to Order
• 2:05 PM, It's Time to Turn the Page: Seeking Higher Expectations for Literacy and Learning—Samantha Flax, NFBMN BELL Academy Coordinator
• 2:15 PM, Update from the Minnesota Department of Education—Diane Dohnalik, M.S.Ed., COMS, Specialist for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Minnesota Department of Education
• 2:35 PM, Legacy in Motion: From BLIND, Inc. to Minnesota Center for the Blind—What’s Next—Briley O'Connor, Executive Director, Minnesota Center for the Blind
• 2:55 PM, Presidential Report—Corbb O'Connor, NFBMN President
• 3:10 PM, Auction & Announcements
• 3:20 PM, Adjourn

3:30–5:00 PM—Deafblind Group Meeting (McKnight 2)

Rocky Hart, Chairperson.

3:30–5:00 PM—Braille for Life: Advocacy, Learning, and Fun at Every Stage (McKnight 1)

We’ll have multiple stations covering everything from IEP advocacy to practical uses of braille, like labeling and daily tasks. Whether you're a fluent braille reader or just starting to explore alternatives to print, this session has something for everyone; kids are welcome and encouraged to attend. We'll also show you how braille can be fun…whether in games, learning, or everyday life. Samantha Flax and Jennifer Wenzel, Co-Facilitators.

3:30 PM-5:00 PM—Foundations of Freedom Training Session 3: Employment Panel (Tartan III)

In this session, graduates of structured discovery centers will share how their blindness training prepared them for successful employment and how the skills they gained have empowered them in their careers and beyond. This is a must-attend for anyone interested in the real-world application of blindness skills training. Briley O’Connor, Moderator.

6:00 PM—Social Hour and Cash Bar (McKnight Ballroom Foyer)

Join us before the banquet for good conversation and a cash bar.

7:00 PM—Banquet (McKnight 2)

Kayde Rieken and Judy Sanders, Co-emcees

• Invocation
• Introduction of Harvest Table
• Auctions, Raffles, and Drawings
• Presentation of Joyce and Tom Scanlan Scholarships
• Keynote Address: Gary Wunder, Braille Monitor Editor and NFBMO President Emeritus

10:00 PM–11:30 PM—Post-Banquet Social and Cash Bar

Preauthorized Contributions

Can you help the National Federation of the Blind on a regular basis? Please consider joining our preauthorized contribution (PAC) plan. Starting at $5 monthly, you can help us turn dreams into reality and raise expectations. Call (877) 632-2722, visit www.nfb.org/pac to fill out the online form, or email pac@nfb.org for additional information.

 

 

Sunday, November 3

Please remember to set your clocks one hour back. Daylight Savings Time ends at 2:00 AM on Sunday morning, which gives us one extra hour of sleep.

8:30 AM—Breakfast (McKnight 2)

9:00 AM—General Session (McKnight 2)

Coffee will be available on each table.

• 9:00 AM, Call to Order and In Memorium—
• 9:05 AM, Skills for the Journey: Navigating Your Career with Confidence and Purpose—Jennifer Wenzel, Product Specialist, American Printing house for the blind and Vice President, NFBWI Milwaukee Chapter
• 9:25 AM, Treasurer's Report—Jennifer Dunnam, NFBMN Treasurer
• 9:45 AM, Empowering Independence through Shared Skills and Experience—Judy Sanders, President, NFBMN Seniors Division
• 9:55 AM, Elections and Proposed Bylaws Amendments
• 10:15 AM, Election of Delegate and Alternate Delegate to the 2025 National Convention
• 10:20 AM, Resolutions—Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson, Resolutions Committee
• 10:45 AM, State & National Student Division Update—Ben Zheng, President, Minnesota Association of Blind Students; Joshua Olukanni, Board Member, National Association of Blind Students
• 11:00 AM, The Federation on External Committees and Boards—
• 11:10 AM, Chapter Reports
• 11:30 AM, Auction & Announcements
• 11:50 AM, Concluding Remarks from our National Representative—Gary Wunder, Braille Monitor Editor and NFBMO President Emeritus
• 12:00 PM, Adjourn

 

 

Special Thanks

The activities of this organization can only succeed with the help and dedication of many Federationists, and the convention is no exception. The National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota offers particular thanks to the Metro Chapter for their hospitality, and to all of the many Federationists who have worked both out in front and behind the scenes to make this convention happen.

NFB of Minnesota Board of Directors:

• Corbb O’Connor, Saint Paul (President)
• Steve Sawczyn, Richfield (Vice President)
• Jennifer Dunnam, Saint Louis Park (Treasurer)
• David Andrews, Stillwater (Secretary)
• Yadiel Sotomayor, formerly Minneapolis
• Kotumu Kamara, Saint Anthony
• Michael Colbrunn, Mankato
• Jan Bailey, Rochester
• Steve Jacobson, Edina

NFB of Minnesota Chapters

• At-Large: David Andrews, President
• Metro: Steve Sawczyn, President
• Rochester: Jan Bailey, President

 

 

Divisions, Committees, and
Work Groups

• Convention Auction: Tara Coyne and Charlotte Czarnecki
• 2
• Convention Door Prizes: Justin Salisbury, Chairperson
• Convention Logistics: Elizabeth Rouse
• Convention Photography: Lorraine Rovig
• Convention Sound, Recording, and Streaming: Steve Jacobson
• Deafblind Group, Rocky Hart, Chairperson
• Government Affairs Committee: Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson
• Membership Committee: Jan Bailey, Chairperson        
• Minnesota Association of Blind Students: Ben Zheng, President                     
• Minnesota Bulletin Editorial Team: Jennifer Dunnam and Kayde Rieken
• Resolutions Committee: Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson
• Scholarship Committee: Steve Jacobson, Chairperson
• National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota Seniors’ Division: Judy Sanders, President