BLDA's Inaugural RossAbilities Conference
[Image Description: Event image shows BLDA logo in top right corner and title "RossAbilities" with subtitle "Conference on Disabilities and Accessibility in Business School and Beyond." The bottom right reads Friday February 7th, 10:00am-5:00pm, Tauber Colloquium, Ross School of Business, Live-streamed online in white text on a dark blue background]
Join us for the BLDA's Inaugural RossAbilities Conference, a groundbreaking event dedicated to exploring disability and accessibility within the business landscape. Hosted by Business Leaders for Diverse Abilities, the disability affinity club at the Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor, this conference will be an enlightening experience for all attendees, both in-person and virtual. Dive into engaging panels that cover crucial topics such as the future of accessibility, entrepreneurship and closing the disability funding gap, and strategies for navigating recruiting and the business world with a disability or as an inclusive leader.
This conference is a unique opportunity to connect with thought leaders, innovators, and advocates shaping the future of inclusivity in business. Whether you're a student, professional, or an ally, you'll gain valuable insights and practical tools to foster a more accessible and equitable business environment. Don't miss this chance to be part of a transformative conversation that champions diversity and empowers individuals of all abilities.
Agenda
9:30-10:30 AM Registration and Light Breakfast
10-10:05 AM Opening Remarks
10:10 -11:00 AM Empowering Connection: Building Inclusive Workplaces Through ERGs
11:10-11:55 AM Breaking Barriers: Navigating Disability in the Job Hunt
12-1:00 PM Lunch and Disability Resources Fair
1-1:55 PM Shaping Tomorrow: Inclusive Design and the Power of Accessibility
2-2:45 PM Demystifying Disability: An Open Conversation
3-3:50 PM Innovating Access: Founders and Funders Shaping Disability Ventures
3:50-4:00 PM Final Remarks
4-5:00 PM Community Reception: Networking and Snacks
Accessibility Statement
We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event environment for all attendees. We strive to provide an event that is welcoming, accommodating, and supportive of diverse accessibility needs. Please indicate on the registration form or contact us at blda-rossabilities@umich.edu at least a week in advance to let us arrange accommodations!
Venue Accessibility: Our venue is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for easy navigation. Accessible parking spaces are available upon request.
Assistive Technologies: We will offer CART captioning services and ASL translators (note: ASL services might only be available in person).
Dietary Accommodations: We are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies and are offering a variety of food options.
Other Accommodations: We provide a quiet space for attendees needing a break or a low-sensory environment. Nursing rooms at Ross are available upon request. Please do not wear strong fragrances to the conference!
If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please contact blda-rossabilities@umich.edu. We welcome your inquiries and will do our best to ensure your full participation in our event.
Thank you to our generous sponsors, General Motors and the Ford Foundation, for making this event possible!