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Saavi Phoenix Assistant Director Opportunity | Structured Discovery Leadership Position
by Joanne Williams 31 Jul '26

31 Jul '26

Dear Colleagues, Saavi Services for the Blind is seeking a passionate and experienced Structured Discovery practitioner and leader to serve as our Phoenix Assistant Director in Phoenix, Arizona. We appreciate your assistance in sharing this opportunity with qualified candidates who are committed to the philosophy and principles of Structured Discovery. Saavi Services for the Blind is committed to providing high-quality Structured Discovery training that empowers blind people to develop confidence, independence, and the belief that blindness need not define their opportunities. We are looking for a leader who embraces a positive philosophy of blindness, believes in high expectations, and is dedicated to helping blind individuals achieve their goals. The Phoenix Assistant Director will work closely with the Center Director to provide leadership and oversight for student services, staff supervision, program implementation, and overall student success. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of Structured Discovery training while supporting the growth and development of both students and staff. Preferred Qualifications: * Strong foundation in Structured Discovery philosophy and practice * Experience in blindness rehabilitation and comprehensive adjustment-to-blindness training programs * Leadership and supervisory experience * NBPCB certifications (NOMC, NCRTB, NCATB, NCUEB) and/or ACVREP certification highly encouraged * Commitment to high expectations, student-centered instruction, and blindness empowerment * Excellent communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills Salary Range: $65,000-$75,000 annually, based on qualifications and experience. If you are passionate about transforming the lives of blind individuals through Structured Discovery and are ready to take the next step in your leadership journey, we encourage you to apply. To Apply: Please send your resume and cover letter to Joanne Williams at jwilliams(a)saavi.us<mailto:jwilliams@saavi.us>. For additional information and to view the full job description, please visit: https://saavi.us/careers/job_posting_0731202601/ All the best, Joanne Williams, M.A., NOMC, NCRTB Chief People Officer SAAVI Services for the Blind 3350 E. Grant Road Tucson, AZ 85716 Office: 520-795-1331 ext. 333 Email: jwilliams(a)saavi.us<mailto:jgabias@saavi.us> Expect more, Achieve more, Become more! www.saavi.us<http://www.saavi.us/>

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TCSD Braille Monitor Article
by jimorris0116＠gmail.com 29 Jun '26

29 Jun '26

I am excited to share that an article about the renaming and rebranding of the Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery (TCSD) has been published in the July edition of the Braille Monitor. A special thank you to Maurice for his assistance in writing the article, as well as to our committee chairs for their valuable contributions. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated team that is committed to advancing Structured Discovery and empowering our profession. You can read the article at the link below: https://nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm26/bm2607/bm260712.htm Warm Regards, Jimmy Morris MA, NOMCT

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Excited to see you in Austin! 2026 NBPCB Annual Conference Final Agenda & Details
by martinez.joni＠gmail.com 29 Jun '26

29 Jun '26

Greetings Conference Attendees, We are thrilled to welcome everyone to Austin, Texas, for the 2026 National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) Annual Conference! To help you navigate your time with us, the final conference agenda is attached to this email and pasted below for your convenience. Please take note of our key locations this year: * Conference Sessions: All sessions will take place on Level 3 of the hotel in Salon C and Meeting Rooms 301 and 302. * Evening Reception: Join us for our evening reception on Level 2 in the Brazos Room. We look forward to an incredible event filled with learning, collaboration, and networking. Safe travels, and we will see you very soon in Austin! Warm regards, The NBPCB Conference Planning Committee National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) 2026 Annual National Rehabilitation and Orientation and Mobility Conference Agenda 25 Years of Excellence and Empowerment for the Blind From Strong Roots to Expanding Horizons July 3, 2026 8:30 AM-7:30 PM CDT JW Marriott Austin 110 E. 2nd St. Austin, TX 78701 800-627-7468 Acknowledgements We would like to express our appreciation to the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). The NFB has not only hosted these rehabilitation events for more than 20 years, but more importantly, it has provided the philosophy, leadership, and guidance upon which the most effective rehabilitation practices have been established. We would also like to give special thanks to the many individuals who contributed their time, energy, and expertise to making this rehabilitation and orientation and mobility conference a success. It is through the dedication, determination, and fortitude of these leaders in the organized blind movement that we have collectively shifted the focus of rehabilitation in this country. Together, we are truly helping people to live the lives they want! General Session Room: Salon C 7:30AM-In-Person Registration Opens 8:30AM-Welcome & Opening remarks Joni Martinez, NOMC, Conference Committee Chair, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Austin, TX Dezman Jackson, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, Conference Committee, Independent Contractor & Owner of Directed Solutions LLC; Baltimore, MD Jordan Moon, NOMC, Graduate Certificate Louisiana Tech, Conference Committee, Director of Strategic Initiatives, SAAVI Services for the Blind; Phoenix, AZ 8:35AM-A Welcome from NFB Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, MD 8:50AM-Keynote: From Strong Roots to Expanding Horizons Jeff Altman, MA, NOMCT, CVRCB, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery; Lincoln, NE 9:20AM-What's New with NBPCB Colin Wong, MA, President, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Seattle, WA 9:30AM-Updates From PDRIB Kristen Sims, MED, NOMC, Interim Director, Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness; Ruston, LA 9:40AM-A Word From the Orientation & Mobility Specialists Association Jimmy Morris, MA, NOMCT, Vice President, Orientation & Mobility Specialists Association, Lead Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA 9:50AM-Announcing Dare to Be Remarkable 2026 Nikki Jackson, Employment Program Coordinator, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, MD 10:00AM-Advocating for Local Change Jesse Shirek, Director of Advocacy, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, MD 10:15AM-Transferring Success: Incorporating Family & Friends as Partners in the Journey Pam Allen, Executive Director, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, LA 10:30AM-AI and Structured Discovery: Can They Work Together? Yadiel Sotomayor, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, NCATB, NCUEB, Access Technology Instructor, Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA 10:45AM-Functional Strategies for Building Effective Communication with ESL and Deafblind Students Jennifer Kennedy, NOMC, Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Salt Lake City, UT 11:00AM- What Structured Discovery Means to Me Liz Delgado, MA, COMS, NOMC, NCRTB; Oklahoma City, OK 11:10AM-Panel: 25 Years of NBPCB: The History and Evolution Ron Brown, MEd, NOMCT, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery, Cane Travel Instructor, Cane & Able; Indianapolis, IN Curtis Chong, NCATB, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery; Aurora, CO Casey Robertson, Ed.S, NCUEB, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness, Louisiana Tech; Ruston, LA 11:55AM-Closing Remarks 12:00PM-2:00PM-Lunch, Learn, & Network Afternoon Breakout Sessions 2:00PM-2:50PM Breakout 1 Session A - Ethics: Maintaining Professional Relationships with Coworkers & Students, Room: 301 Jessica Bartenbach, NCUEB, NCRTB, Supervisor, Nebraska Center for the Blind, Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Lincoln, NE Jamie Sibson, MRC, NCUEB, Director, New Mexico Orientation Center for the Blind, New Mexico Commission for the Blind; Alamogordo, NM Session B - Cane Travel: Guide Dogs and Structured Discovery Room: Salon C Macaulay Beasley, NOMC, Center Director, Mississippi EMERGE Center, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services; Long Beach, MS Rachel Grider, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, Cane Travel Instructor, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, LA Becky Keller, NOMC, COMS, Director of Orientation & Mobility, Pre-Employment Transition Specialist, Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA Domonique Lawless, MA, NOMC, NCUEB, National Program Director, Blind Veterans Association; Mechanicsville, VA Session C - Incorporation of Braille Across Different Mediums Room: 302 Kelly Burma, NCUEB, Skills Center Coordinator, New Mexico Commission for the Blind; Albuquerque, NM Emily Smith, NCUEB, Braille Instructor, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland; Baltimore, MD 3:00PM-3:50PM Breakout 2 Session A - A Focus on Functional Technology Room: 301 Joe Goode, Access Technology Instructor, SAAVI Services for the Blind, Access Technology Committee Chair, National Federation of the Blind of Arizona; Phoenix, AZ Jaime Trausch, Chief Technology Officer, SAAVI Services for the Blind; Tucson, AZ Session B - Accelerating Cycles of Advocacy: Successful Strategies for Bringing NBPCB Certifications to the Table Room: Salon C Justin M. H. Salisbury, Med, NOMC, NCRTB, Graduate Student, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; Minneapolis, MN Daniel Belding, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Indianapolis, IN Jordan Moon, NOMC, Graduate Certificate Louisiana Tech, Director of Strategic Initiatives, SAAVI Services for the Blind, Legislative Director, National Federation of the Blind of Arizona; Phoenix, AZ Session C - Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery Meeting (Closed Event) Room: 302 Jimmy Morris, MA, NOMCT, Committee Chair, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery, Lead Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA 4:00PM-4:50PM Breakout 3 Session A - An Approach to Training Co-workers and Apprentices in a Safe and Professional Space Room: 301 Colin Wong, MA, President, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Seattle, WA Roland Allen, NOMCT, Cane Travel Instructor, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, LA Session B - Building a Structured Discovery Training Center From the Ground Up Room: Salon C Jordan Moon, NOMC, Graduate Certificate Louisiana Tech, Director of Strategic Initiatives, SAAVI Services for the Blind; Phoenix, AZ Dorothy Young, Director, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services; Madison, MS Joanne Wilson, Founder, Louisiana Center for the Blind, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Alexandria, VA Session C - Exploring the Application of Structured Discovery to Deafblind Instruction Room: 302 Maurice Peret, NOMCT, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery, Orientation & Mobility Therapist III, Ho’Opono Services for the Blind New Visions Adjustment Program; Honolulu, HI Evening Reception Room: Brazos 5:30PM-7:30PM-Conference Mix & Mingle Facilitated by NBPCB and PDRIB  Speak with the day’s presenters in a less formal setting.  Networking opportunity for job seekers and employers.  Meet our newest NOMC certificants.  Meet our newest NCRTB certificants.  Meet our newest NCUEB certificants.  Awards and recognition  Announcements from centers across the nation  Cash bar and light snacks will be available. Sponsors National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) Colin Wong, President www.nbpcb.org admin(a)nbpcb.org Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB), Louisiana Tech University Kristen Sims, Interim Director www.pdrib.com ksims(a)latech.edu *Agenda subject to change

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Fw: Work with us! DBVI Career Opportunities - 6/24/26
by Keller, Becky (DBVI) 24 Jun '26

24 Jun '26

Morning all, Please see our openings here in Virginia. More specifically, we would love some of our NBPCB folks to join us as an Orientation and Mobility instructor in Fairfax, or a Wellness Instructor at our training Center in Richmond. Have a great day today everyone!! Best regards, Becky Keller, NOMC, COMS Pre-ETS Specialist & Director of Orientation and Mobility Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired Becky.Keller(a)dbvi.virginia.gov (804) 845-0685 ________________________________ From: Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired <VADBVI(a)public.govdelivery.com> Sent: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 8:21 AM To: Keller, Becky (DBVI) <becky.keller(a)dbvi.virginia.gov> Subject: Work with us! DBVI Career Opportunities - 6/24/26 Find info regarding open positions at DBVI. Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fa…>. [Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired] DBVI Career Opportunities - 6/24/26 Work with us! Below are the DBVI Career Opportunities currently posted. Vacancies are posted frequently, so check PageUp for the most up to date listing at jobs.virginia.gov<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.jobs.virginia.gov%2Fjob…>. <https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.jobs.virginia.gov%2Fjob…> Job Title: Braille Unit and Operations Manager Location: Richmond Position #: BVI00364 Closing Date: 07/08/2026 Quicklink: Apply Now<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.jobs.virginia.gov%2Fjob…> Job Title: Reader Advisor Location: Richmond Position #: BVI00066 Closing Date: 07/06/2026 Quicklink: Apply Now<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.jobs.virginia.gov%2Fjob…> Job Title: Wellness Instructor Location: Richmond Position #: RCB00008 Closing Date: 07/06/2026 Quicklink: Apply Now<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.jobs.virginia.gov%2Fjob…> Job Title: Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Specialist Location: Fairfax Position #: BVI00367 (Previous applicants need not reapply) Closing Date: Open until filled Quicklink: Apply Now<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.jobs.virginia.gov%2Fjob…> Job Title: Fiscal Support Specialist (Wage) Location: Richmond Position #: BVIWE079 Closing Date: 07/01/2026 Quicklink: Apply Now<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.jobs.virginia.gov%2Fjob…> ________________________________ Here are some helpful tips to remember when applying: * Review the position’s Job Description. * Complete PageUp application accurately to reflect relevant work history as it relates to the position for which you are applying. * Contact HR, prior to the position closing, if you have any issues accessing PageUp or submitting an application. * PageUp closes all positions at 11:55 pm on the Closing Date. * Screening is based upon information relevant to the position for which you are applying. HR determines candidates for interview by comparing the information disclosed in the application, resume, cover letter and transcripts to the screening criteria for the particular position. Be sure to like DBVI on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VDBVI<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FVDBVI%3F…> and visit us on the web at https://www.dbvi.virginia.gov<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dbvi.virginia.gov%3Futm…>. © Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired Stay Connected with Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired: [Facebook]<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FVDBVI%3F…> [Youtube] <https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fuser%2FVA…> SUBSCRIBER SERVICES: Manage Subscriptions<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fpublic.govdelivery.com%2Fac…> | Unsubscribe All<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fpublic.govdelivery.com%2Fac…> | Help<https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsubscriberhelp.govdelivery.…> ________________________________ This email was sent to becky.keller(a)dbvi.virginia.gov using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired · 397 Azalea Avenue · Richmond, Virginia · 23227 · (804) 371-3140 [GovDelivery logo] <https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsubscriberhelp.granicus.com…> [https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CI0/0101019ef993a7a3-1f7246d7-759c-4bd9-88c…]

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NCUEB Testing Opportunity in Austin
by admin＠nbpcb.org 17 Jun '26

17 Jun '26

Hello, We have just a few more seats for anyone who might want to take the national Certification in Unified English Braille exam in Austin, TX on July 4. If you will be attending the NFB's national convention and would like to take the test in order to earn this certification, please do not delay in registering to reserve your spot. You can find all of the details regarding this certification on our website, www.NBPCB.org <http://www.NBPCB.org> . Please reach out if you have any questions that are not covered there. Best, Maria NBPCB Office PO Box 2373 Ruston LA 71273 318 299-7340 <mailto:admin@nbpcb.org> admin(a)nbpcb.org <http://www.nbpcb.org/> www.nbpcb.org <https://www.nbpcb.org/pages/lookup.php> Click here to verify the status of NBPCB certified professionals Sign up for the Structured Discovery Announcement mailing list <https://lists.nbpcb.org/mailman3/lists/sdteaching.lists.nbpcb.org/> here.

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Reminder: Cane Walk 2026
by Michell Gip 12 Jun '26

12 Jun '26

Hello, Instructors still needed for the Cane Walk! If you are planning to be at National Convention in Austin, TX; please consider helping. What is the Cane Walk? The Cane Walk is put on by the National Organization Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC). It is an opportunity for parents or family members of blind children to learn about cane travel. They will receive a teaching cane, learning shades, and a lesson with a NOMC. The Cane Walk will be during the morning of July 4, 2026 from 8:30AM-11:30AM. Please email me at michellgip(a)gmail.com <mailto:michellgip@gmail.com> if you are interested in participating or have questions. If you have already reached out to me regarding your interest to participate, you should have heard back from me. Look forward to hearing from you soon! Kind Regards, Michell Gip

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TONIGHT: Minnesota Center for the Blind Board Meeting
by Justin Salisbury 09 Jun '26

09 Jun '26

Hi everyone, In case you're interested in following the developments with the Minnesota Center for the Blind, it appears that this might be the last ever meeting of its Board of Directors. There is a pending vote to dissolve. If you've never attended such a meeting and still want to, this is likely to be your last chance. Meeting information is in the forwarded email that appears below my message. For those who are new to Structured Discovery, welcome! This entity used to be one of the three training centers that was affiliated with the NFB and was accredited by the NBPCB. In its glory days, it was a truly wonderful place that changed so many lives. BLIND, Incorporated, has forever been a part of growing the Structured Discovery teaching model that we strive to practice today. Aloha, Justin Justin MH Salisbury, MEd, NOMC, NCRTB English Pronouns: He/Him/His Email: President(a)Alumni.ECU.edu<mailto:President@Alumni.ECU.edu> ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Justin_Salisbury<https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Justin_Sa…> LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-salisbury<https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-salisbury&s…> ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-1786-2786 Recent Public Scholarship: Salisbury, J. (2025). Defining and understanding the blind community<https://ojs.scholarsportal.info/ontariotechu/index.php/id/article/view/323>. Including Disability, 6. "Until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter." Chinua Achebe From: NFBMN-News <nfbmn-news-bounces(a)nfbnet.org<mailto:nfbmn-news-bounces@nfbnet.org>> On Behalf Of Corbb O'Connor via NFBMN-News Sent: Sunday, June 7, 2026 11:37 PM To: News NFB <nfbmn-news(a)nfbnet.org<mailto:nfbmn-news@nfbnet.org>> Subject: [NFBMN-News] Tuesday night: Minnesota Center for the Blind Board Meeting The following message comes from Steve Decker, Chairperson of the MCB Board of Directors. Greetings from the Board of the Minnesota Center for the Blind. We invite you all to our next public board meeting, held on Tuesday, June 9th at 6:30 PM Central. This will likely be a shorter meeting than normal. In alignment with the MCB Task force recommendation to dissolve MCB, we'll be discussing and voting on a resolution and plan to dissolve. We'll also share an overview of our finances and recent MCB activity. We'll close with a brief Q&A. Please note that we will not hold a lengthy discussion on the merits of dissolution, as this has already occurred within the task force, and we received ample public comments at the recent public task force meeting in April. If you have any questions, please email boardchair(a)blindinc.org<mailto:boardchair@blindinc.org> Thank you, Steve Decker Topic: MCB Public Board Meeting Join Zoom Meeting<https://zoom.us/j/97789382148?pwd=0b7JgpWprdOXoogyAZmfJpt3HZZNaR.1> https://zoom.us/j/97789382148?pwd=0b7JgpWprdOXoogyAZmfJpt3HZZNaR.1 Meeting ID: 977 8938 2148 Passcode: 134037 One tap mobile +13017158592,,97789382148#,,,,134037# US (Washington DC) +13052241968,,97789382148#,,,,134037# US instructions for joining by phone<https://zoom.us/meetings/97789382148/invitations?signature=e-7YJyKJRNUIT6nT…>

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2026 NBPCB Conference Registration Reminder and Agenda
by martinez.joni＠gmail.com 02 Jun '26

02 Jun '26

Register for the 2026 NBPCB Annual Conference! Remember to secure your spot for the **2026 National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) Annual Conference**. Our annual conference is a premier opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, earn continuing education credits, and engage with the latest advancements in our field. * **Online Registration Deadline:** June 25, 2026 Don't wait until the last minute—secure your spot today by clicking the link below: https://nbpcb.org/members/login.php?r=/members/er.php?eid=619 If you have any questions regarding registration, accommodations, or the schedule, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Conference Committee: Joni Martinez (Martinez.joni(a)gmail.com) Dezman Jackson (jackson.dezman(a)gmail.com ), or Jordan Moon (jmoon(a)saavi.us) We look forward to seeing you there! National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) 2026 Annual National Rehabilitation and Orientation and Mobility Conference Agenda 25 Years of Excellence and Empowerment for the Blind From Strong Roots to Expanding Horizons July 3, 2026 8:30 AM-7:30 PM CDT JW Marriott Austin 110 E. 2nd St. Austin, TX 78701 800-627-7468 Acknowledgements We would like to express our appreciation to the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). The NFB has not only hosted these rehabilitation events for more than 20 years, but more importantly, it has provided the philosophy, leadership, and guidance upon which the most effective rehabilitation practices have been established. We would also like to give special thanks to the many individuals who contributed their time, energy, and expertise to making this rehabilitation and orientation and mobility conference a success. It is through the dedication, determination, and fortitude of these leaders in the organized blind movement that we have collectively shifted the focus of rehabilitation in this country. Together, we are truly helping people to live the lives they want! General Session Room: TBD 7:30AM-In-Person Registration Opens 8:30AM-Welcome & Opening remarks Joni Martinez, NOMC, Conference Committee Chair, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Austin, TX Dezman Jackson, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, Conference Committee, Independent Contractor & Owner of Directed Solutions LLC; Baltimore, MD Jordan Moon, NOMC, Graduate Certificate Louisiana Tech, Conference Committee, Director of Strategic Initiatives, SAAVI Services for the Blind,; Phoenix, AZ 8:35AM-A Welcome from NFB Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, MD 8:50AM-Keynote: From Strong Roots to Expanding Horizons Jeff Altman, MA, NOMCT, CVRCB, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery; Lincoln, NE 9:20AM-What's New with NBPCB Colin Wong, MA, President, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Seattle, WA 9:30AM-Updates From PDRIB Kristin Sims, MED, NOMC, Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness; Ruston, LA 9:40AMA Word From the Orientation & Mobility Specialists Association Jimmy Morris, MA, NOMCT, Vice President, Orientation & Mobility Specialists Association, Lead Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA 9:50AM-Announcing Dare to Be Remarkable 2026 Nikki Jackson, Employment Program Coordinator, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, MD 10:00AM-Advocating for Local Change Jesse Shirek, Director of Advocacy, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, MD 10:15AM-Transferring Success: Incorporating Family & Friends as Partners in the Journey Pam Allen, Executive Director, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, LA 10:30AM-AI and Structured Discovery: Can They Work Together? Yadiel Sotomayor, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, NCATB, NCUEB, Access Technology Instructor, Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA 10:45AM-Functional Strategies for Building Effective Communication with ESL and Deafblind Students Jennifer Kennedy, NOMC, Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Salt Lake City, UT 11:00AM- What Structured Discovery Means to Me Liz Delgado, MA, COMS, NOMC, NCRTB; Oklahoma City, OK 11:10AM-Panel: 25 Years of NBPCB: The History and Evolution Ron Brown, MEd, NOMCT, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery, Cane Travel Instructor, Cane & Able; Indianapolis, IN Curtis Chong, NCATB, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery; Aurora, CO Casey Robertson, Ed.S, NCUEB, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness, Louisiana Tech; Ruston, LA, 11:55AM-Closing Remarks 12:00PM-2:00PM-Lunch, Learn & Network Afternoon Breakout Sessions Rooms: TBD 2:00PM-2:50PM Breakout 1 Session A-Ethics: Maintaining Professional Relationships with Coworkers & Students, Jessica Bartenbach, NCUEB, NCRTB, Supervisor, Nebraska Center for the Blind, Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Lincoln, NE Jamie Sibson, MRC, NCUEB, Director, New Mexico Orientation Center for the Blind, New Mexico Commission for the Blind; Alamogordo, NM Session B-Cane Travel: Guide Dogs and Structured Discovery Macaulay Beasley, NOMC, Center Director, Mississippi EMERGE Center, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services; Long Beach, MS Rachel Grider, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, Cane Travel Instructor, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, LA Becky Keller, NOMC, COMS, Director of Orientation & Mobility, Pre-Employment Transition Specialist, Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA Domonique Lawless, MA, NOMC, NCUEB, National Program Director, Blind Veterans Association; Mechanicsville, VA Session C- Incorporation of Braille Across Different Mediums Kelly Burma, NCUEB, Skills Center Coordinator, New Mexico Commission for the Blind; Albuquerque, NM Emily Smith, NCUEB, Braille Instructor, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland; Baltimore, MD 3:00PM-3:50PM Breakout 2 Session A- A Focus on Functional Technology Joe Goode, Access Technology Instructor, SAAVI Services for the Blind, Access Technology Committee Chair, National Federation of the Blind of Arizona; Phoenix, AZ Jaime Trausch, Chief Technology Officer, SAAVI Services for the Blind; Tucson, AZ Session B-Accelerating Cycles of Advocacy: Successful Strategies for Bringing NBPCB Certifications to the Table Justin M. H. Salisbury, Med, NOMC, NCRTB, Graduate Student, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; Minneapolis, MN Daniel Belding, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Indianapolis, IN Jordan Moon, NOMC, Graduate Certificate Louisiana Tech, Director of Strategic Initiatives, SAAVI Services for the Blind, Legislative Director, National Federation of the Blind of Arizona; Phoenix, AZ Session C-Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery Meeting (Closed Event) Jimmy Morris, MA, NOMCT, Committee Chair, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery, Lead Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired; Richmond, VA 4:00PM-4:50PM Breakout 3 Session A- An Approach to Training Co-workers and Apprentices in a Safe and Professional Space Colin Wong, MA, President, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Seattle, WA Roland Allen, NOMCT, Cane Travel Instructor, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston, LA Session B- Building a Structured Discovery Training Center From the Ground Up Jordan Moon, NOMC, Graduate Certificate Louisiana Tech, Director of Strategic Initiatives, SAAVI Services for the Blind; Phoenix, AZ Dorothy Young, Director, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services; Madison, MS Joanne Wilson, Founder, Louisiana Center for the Blind, National Blindness Professional Certification Board; Alexandria, VA Session C-Exploring the Application of Structured Discovery to Deafblind Instruction Maurice Peret, NOMCT, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery, Orientation & Mobility Therapist III, Ho’Opono Services for the Blind New Visions Adjustment Program; Honolulu, HI Evening Reception Room: TBD 5:30pm-7:30pm-Conference Mix & Mingle Facilitated by NBPCB and PDRIB  Speak with the day’s presenters in a less formal setting.  Networking opportunity for job seekers and employers.  Meet our newest NOMC certificants.  Meet our newest NCRTB certificants.  Meet our newest NCUEB certificants.  Awards and recognition  Announcements from centers across the nation  Cash bar and light snacks will be available. Sponsors National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) Colin Wong, President www.nbpcb.org <http://www.nbpcb.org> admin(a)nbpcb.org <mailto:admin@nbpcb.org> Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB), Louisiana Tech University www.pdrib.com <http://www.pdrib.com> pdrib(a)latech.edu <mailto:pdrib@latech.edu> *Agenda subject to change

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Volunteer Needed: Promote Structured Discovery and Inspire Future Professionals
by jimorris0116＠gmail.com 31 May '26

31 May '26

Hi All, Convention will be here before we know it, and the TCSD Recruitment Committee is requesting your support in helping the NBPCB recruit the next generation of Structured Discovery teachers and professionals. We are seeking NBPCB-certified individuals to volunteer for one or more one-hour shifts staffing NBPCB's first-ever exhibit hall table. Volunteers will help greet attendees, answer questions about NBPCB certifications, enter visitors into a raffle, and distribute flyers and swag. Each shift will have two volunteers assigned. All volunteers can earn Continuing Education Credit for their NBPCB certification. You will earn 1 Point per hour. You can sign up for available time slots using the link below. NBPCB Exhibit Hall sign up <https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0544A5A92EA2FA7-64130233-nbpcb> If the shift you were hoping for is already filled, please feel free to contact Carley to be added as a backup volunteer in case an opening becomes available. This is an exciting opportunity to promote Structured Discovery training and connect with future professionals in the field. We deeply appreciate your willingness to support this important outreach and recruitment effort. If you have any questions, please contact Carley at carleymullin(a)gmail.com <mailto:carleymullin@gmail.com> . Best, The TCSD Recruitment Sub-Committee Warm Regards, Jimmy Morris MA, NOMCT

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Cane Walk 2026
by Michell Gip 18 May '26

18 May '26

Hello NOMCs, If you are planning to be at National Convention in Austin, TX; please consider helping with the Cane Walk. What is the Cane Walk? The Cane Walk is put on by the National Organization Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC). It is an opportunity for parents or family members of blind children to learn about cane travel. They will receive a teaching cane, learning shades, and a lesson with a NOMC. The Cane Walk will be during the morning of July 4, 2026. Please email me at michellgip(a)gmail.com <mailto:michellgip@gmail.com> if you are interested in participating or have questions. Look forward to hearing from you soon! Kind Regards, Michell Gip

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