Session Descriptions
Welcome Remarks.
8:30am – 8:45am.
Speaker:
Kristin Harvey, BA, Executive Director, Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC).
Speaker Bio:
Kristin Harvey, BA, has served as the Executive Director for the Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) since 2020. She was born and raised in Delaware. Through her work with the DDC, Kristin recognized traits of neurodivergence in herself. She is now proud to be a person with lived experience in the disability community. Kristin is passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and supported in pursuing the lives they want. She views advocacy not as speaking for others, but as standing beside them in community and purpose. Kristin lives in Dover with her husband and is the proud stepmother of two daughters.
2027 Keynote Address.
8:45am – 9:30am.
We Belong: Building Lives, Love and Community Together.
Speaker:
Patrice Jetter, Emmy Award Winning Actor and Disability Advocate.
Keynote Address Description:
Join Patrice Jetter from Patrice: The Movie for an inspiring Keynote Address about disability, advocacy, relationships and belonging. Patrice will share stories from her life and talk about the challenges that people with disabilities can face when trying to live independently, build relationships and be fully included in their communities. Through honesty, humor and personal experience, Patrice encourages people to think differently about disability and inclusion. Participants will leave with a better understanding of disability rights and ways to help create more welcoming and supportive communities.
Speaker Bio:
Patrice Jetter stars in the Emmy Award-winning documentary, Patrice: The Movie. Her speech at the Emmy Awards was shared over 1million times on social media. She has appeared on Good Morning America, The View, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. As a disability rights activist she has spoken all around the United States and has met personally with members of Congress and even President Joe Biden, who mentioned her on CSPAN that same day. Patrice spent years fighting against disability discrimination to become the first disabled crossing guard in her New Jersey town. She is also a comic book artist, figure skater, miniature train enthusiast, cheerleader, bowler, Special Olympics athlete, quilter, snowboarder, gymnast, bocce ball player, horseback rider, cable access TV show host, anti-bullying advocate, clown, costume designer, camp counselor, and much more. She has been building elaborate model train sets for over 25 years and she’s the only black and female member of the Model Railroad Club of New Jersey. Patrice has received over 100 medals from the Special Olympics, and she hosted her own weekly public access television show for four years. Patrice has also designed costumes for the internationally touring rock band, The Moldy Peaches.
Concurrent Session 1.
10:30am – 11:45am.
A Seat at the Table: An Interactive Discussion.
Speakers:
Delaware State Senator Kyra Hoffner.
Delaware State Representative Michael Smith.
Andrew (“Drew”) Wilson, BA, JD, Deputy Secretary, Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS).
Christen Young, JD, Secretary, Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS).
Session Description:
Now more than ever it is important to have your lived experience heard by key decision makers in Delaware and also for you to hear from the panelists what priorities they are working on. It’s critical for key leadership in Delaware to hear directly from people who will be affected, so they understand how a new law or policy could change the daily lives and independence of Delawareans with disabilities.
Federal uncertainties will impact the disability community. Ask questions, listen and learn! Advocacy is about helping decision makers understand the challenges people with disabilities face and how to better support them.
Speaker Bios:
Senator Kyra Hoffner represents Delaware’s 14th Senate District, which includes Townsend, Smyrna, Clayton, Cheswold, and Leipsic. Raised on Long Island, New York, she moved to Delaware with her family in 2001 and worked in the mortgage industry until retiring in 2008. Hoffner began her public service career as an advocate and volunteer coordinator for the Delaware Advocacy Network and later served as a lobbyist for the League of Women Voters. She co-chaired the People Powered Fair Maps Redistricting Team, helping educate Delawareans and promote transparency during the 2021 redistricting process. Elected to the Delaware Senate in 2022, Senator Hoffner has focused on social justice work, affordable housing, and strengthening Delaware’s agricultural economy.
Representative Michael Smith of Newark represents the Pike Creek Valley and parts of Hockessin and Newark. He believes strongly in family and community. Along with his wife, Christy, they have three handsome and active sons. Mike participates in numerous community organizations, such as Kids with Confidence, Newark Morning Rotary, Christ Community Church, New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, and Delaware State Chamber of Commerce. In addition, he is a coach for teams with Western YMCA U7 Flag Football, Piedmont Baseball, and Rush Soccer. On the legislative side, Mike serves on the Joint Capital Infrastructure (Bond) Committee, as well as the House Education, Health & Human Development, Revenue & Finance, and Economic Development Committees.
Andrew (“Drew”) Wilson is the Deputy Secretary for Medicaid for the State of Delaware, where he leads policy, strategy, and operations for a $3.2 billion program serving over 250,000 residents. With a background in law and a deep commitment to public service, Drew brings a sharp analytical lens to complex healthcare financing, delivery reform, and system integrity. He is known for driving cross-sector collaboration, advancing equity in access and outcomes, and translating policy into practical, people-centered solutions.
Christen Young, JD, is the Cabinet Secretary for the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) and a nationally recognized health policy leader with more than 15 years of experience in federal and state government. From 2021 to 2025, she served as Deputy Director of the White House Domestic Policy Council and Deputy Assistant to the President for Health and Veterans, leading major health policy initiatives, including implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act’s prescription drug provisions and efforts to expand health coverage nationwide. She previously served as Deputy Secretary for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and held leadership roles at CMS, HHS, and the Obama White House. Young earned a J.D. from Yale Law School and a B.S. from Stanford University.
Beyond Awareness: Creating Spaces Where Everyone Belongs.
Speakers:
Kurtis Cherry, Sales Associate, Goodwill Rodney Village.
Zoey DePrisco, Rodney Store Manager, Goodwill of Delaware and Delaware County.
Casey Reynolds, MS, Director of Sales and Engagement, Dover YMCA.
Session Description:
This session focuses on real inclusion in everyday places like restaurants, recreation spaces, and local businesses. Awareness is important, but it does not always lead to change. This session shares simple, practical ways to make spaces more welcoming for everyone. Participants will learn, share ideas, and take part in open discussions. Families and people with disabilities will help guide the conversation by sharing their experiences. Two organizations with inclusive practices will briefly share what they do and what they have learned. This will show how inclusion can work in real life. To extend the impact, ideas discussed during the session may also be shared with community groups, businesses, and government agencies. The goal is to connect families, organizations, and businesses so that real experiences lead to meaningful change.
Speaker Bios:
Kurtis Cherry was born in 1988 in Panama City, FL to Kurt and Kathie Cherry. He spent his early childhood moving with his family while his father served in the Air Force. While living in Iceland, Kurtis attended a developmental preschool and was diagnosed with autism after being evaluated in England. After returning to the United States, he attended special education programs in Clovis, NM and later Dover, DE. Kurtis was eventually enrolled in the Delaware Autism Program at the John S. Charlton School. He graduated from the Transition Program at Wesley College in 2009.
Kurtis began working at Goodwill Industries in Milford, DE in December 2009 and later transferred to the Rodney Village store in Dover, where he continues to be a valued employee. In 2011, he was honored with the Senator William Roth Achievement Award in recognition of his hard work and determination. Outside of work, Kurtis enjoys traveling, watching Star Trek, train videos, and learning about school buses.
Zoey DePrisco believes the most meaningful workplace success begins with possibility, trust and human connection. As a Store Manager for the non-profit Goodwill of Delaware & Delaware County, Zoey leads with a hands-on, people-first approach that empowers team members of all abilities to grow in confidence, independence and skill through the Power of Work!
Prior to joining Goodwill, Zoey built a strong foundation in customer service through management roles with Navy Federal Credit Union and Dunkin/Baskin Robbins. Zoey brings a practical, real-world perspective on what authentic inclusion can look like in everyday workplaces and community spaces. Her experiences demonstrate that inclusive hiring is not simply about accommodation, it is about creating cultures where people are encouraged, challenged, supported and genuinely seen.
Casey Reynolds, MS, has over a decade of experience at the YMCA and serves as Director of Sales and Engagement at the Dover YMCA, driving mission focused growth while deepening community engagement. Casey previously served as a coach for multiple YMCA Community Health Programs, including the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). She is dedicated to expanding health accessibility and creating inclusive environments where all can thrive. Casey has also contributed to the coordination and hosting of the GACEC Disability History & Awareness Month Resource Fair in 2025, proudly hosted by the Dover YMCA for the past three years.
Using Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) Services to Achieve Employment Success.
Speakers:
Stacey Bragg, MS, Deputy Director, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR).
Zachary Gonzalez, AAS, Disability Advocate.
Jennifer Jurczak, Business Relations Specialist, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR).
Brenda Rodriguez, MS, Statewide Transition Administrator, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Session Description:
Finding a job can be challenging for people with disabilities. This session will explain the services available through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and how DVR can help people prepare for, find, and keep a job. Participants will learn about the DVR application process, eligibility requirements, and individualized services for each participant.
Participants will learn about Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for students with disabilities, starting at age 14. These services help students learn about careers, build job skills, practice self-advocacy, explore education and training options, and gain work experience. The session will also discuss services for students who are transitioning from high school to work, college, training programs, or other education opportunities.
Speaker Bios:
Stacey Bragg, MS, serves as Deputy Director for the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and brings 30 years of experience supporting individuals with disabilities. In her 17 years at DVR, Stacey has fulfilled the roles of Deputy Director, District Administrator, and Employment Specialist. Stacey serves on the Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council, advocating for systems, policies, and opportunities that promote inclusion and equity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Stacey is also an Adjunct Instructor at DTCC. She holds two degrees from Wilmington University, a Master of Science in Administration of Human Services and Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management. Inspired by her experience as a parent of a child with disabilities, Stacey is a passionate supporter of Special Olympics Delaware.
Zachary Gonzalez, AAS, is an Administrative Specialist with Delaware Division of Health and Social Services. He provides excellent customer service and detailed office operations at the Northeast Social Services location. Zachary was awarded the 2025 SRC NDEAM Employee of the Year for New Castle County!
Zachary received DVR services beginning with Pre-Employment Transition Services while in high school, supporting him with post-secondary education, working with the Business Relations Unit for job search support services, and resulting in an administrative position with the State of Delaware. Zachary holds an Associate of Applied Science in Visual Communication, Multimedia, from Delaware Technical Community College in Dover. Outside of work, Zachary enjoys creating advertisements for small businesses, design portraits, and video game content.
Jennifer Jurczak is a Business Relations Specialist for the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), bringing more than 25 years of experience in assisting people with disabilities, workforce development, and business relations. She works directly with employers throughout Delaware to identify workforce needs, develop recruitment strategies, promote disability inclusion, and connect businesses with qualified candidates and workforce resources.
Jennifer is an active member of the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Milford, where she served as the Executive Secretary for eight years, and the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, where she currently serves as an Ambassador. Outside of work, Jennifer is an instructor at Polytech Adult Education, is an avid supporter of Autism Delaware, and enjoys spending time with family and traveling.
Brenda Rodriguez, MS, is the Transition Services Administrator for the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). Brenda has served individuals with disabilities for the past 28 years. During her 22-year tenure at DVR, she has served as Transition Services Administrator, District Administrator, and Vocational Rehabilitation Senior Counselor. In her current role, Brenda provides statewide leadership and oversight of Transition Services and the Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) program, supporting students with disabilities as they prepare for employment and post-secondary opportunities.
Brenda earned a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling from Assumption University in Worcester, MA, and a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, with a minor in Psychology, from the University of Puerto Rico. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending time at the Jersey Shore.
Concurrent Session 2.
1:45pm – 3:00pm.
Embracing All Abilities: Visibility, Invisibility, and Self-Acceptance.
Speakers:
Derek Diaz, Student, Wilmington University.
Christina Feil, Community Relations Officer, Delaware Office for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing.
Debbie Rice, Disability Advocate.
Session Description:
This session is about people with visible and invisible disabilities learning to accept and feel good about who they are. The speakers will talk about real-life experiences and how people can build confidence and feel more comfortable with their disability. Participants will learn how stigma (how others think or feel about disability, and how we sometimes feel about ourselves) can affect self-confidence. The speakers will also share ways to challenge those negative ideas.
Attendees will learn how to recognize your strengths, talk about your needs with others, and help create spaces where everyone feels respected and included. This session is helpful whether you are learning for yourself or to support someone else.
Speaker Bios:
Derek Diaz is a 21-year-old senior attending Wilmington University in New Castle, Delaware. Growing up, he participated in baseball, chess, gymnastics, and Jiu Jitsu, where he found his greatest success. Today, he enjoys time with friends, gaming and participating in Dungeons & Dragons. Derek has earned numerous academic honors throughout his school career, including induction into the National Society of Leadership and Success. He has also volunteered with organizations such as the Delaware Public Library System, Food Bank of Delaware, and 3 Palms Zoo & Education Center.
A graduate of the 2022 Junior Partners in Policymaking Program and a former 2023 LIFE Conference panelist, Derek developed a passion for advocacy and empowering youth with disabilities. He plans to earn his bachelor’s degree in 2027 before pursuing an MBA focused on nonprofit leadership, with the goal of building a career in advocacy and helping others create positive change.
Christina Feil is the Community Relations Coordinator for the Delaware Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing within the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. As a Deaf professional and advocate, she brings both lived and professional experience to her work in communication access, community outreach, and disability inclusion. Christina works with state agencies, healthcare systems, law enforcement, and community organizations to improve accessibility and promote effective communication for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals throughout Delaware. Her work focuses on advocacy, public education, assistive technology, and creating more inclusive environments where individuals feel respected, empowered, and supported. Christina is passionate about empowering individuals, encouraging self-acceptance, building confidence, and strengthening community connections within the disability community.
Debbie Rice is a 54-year-old woman who was born with cerebral palsy. She attended John G. Leach School until she was sixteen when she went into Claymont High School and then graduated with a diploma from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1992. At a young age, Debbie attended Camp Manito as a camper. As she became an adult, she later volunteered and was employed by Camp Monito. Debbie loves traveling with her family to the beach, camping and Disney World. She has spent much of her adult life on a journey toward independence and living independently in the community. In 2019, her dream became a reality, and she has been living independently in the community ever since with a wonderful support system who assist her each and every day.
Financial Literacy: Setting the Foundation While Receiving Benefits.
Speakers:
Christopher Chadwick, Disability Advocate.
Alan Scott, AAS, WIP, CPWIC, Assistant Director of Benefits, Community Integrated Services (CIS).
Session Description:
This session gives a simple, practical guide to managing money on your own, especially for people with disabilities. You will learn how to track different types of income and create an easy budget that covers needs, personal spending, and savings. The session also introduces budgeting tools and apps that are easy to use and accessible. It explains basic banking topics, including how to choose a bank or credit union, use accessible banking services, and safely manage money with tools like direct deposit, mobile banking, and fraud protection.
The presentation also covers ABLE accounts, including who can open one, how much money can be saved, and how these accounts help people save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. These accounts can support greater financial stability and independence. The session will conclude with a Question-and-Answer period, as well as sharing of various resources supporting financial literacy, disability employment, and benefits navigation.
Speaker Bios:
Christopher Chadwick is a valued team member at Vistra/IHI Garrison Energy Center in Dover, where he joined the Environmental Department in May 2023. In his role, Christopher plays an important part in maintaining a safe, clean, and sanitary work environment, making him a dependable and integral member of the team. Christopher actively participates in financial literacy and coaching programs that support his goal of achieving financial independence. Outside of work, he enjoys playing video games and spending time with friends. Christopher is a graduate of Caesar Rodney High School in Camden, Delaware.
Alan Scott, AAS, WIP, CPWIC, is the Assistant Director of Benefits at Community Integrated Services (CIS), a Supported Employment Agency located in Delaware that focuses on integrated, community-based employment. As a former Employment Specialist for CIS, Alan has an in-depth understanding of both the employment search and benefits counseling, which allows him to address issues comprehensively. Alan counsels’ individuals and actively works to advise the community about benefits counseling. Alan provides Social Security Benefits guidance and counseling for the Pathways to Employment program, Delaware DVR and DVI participants, the Promise program and school districts, as well as other state, local, and federal partners.
Alan earned his Business Degree from Johnson and Wales University. He is certified as a Work Incentive Practitioner through the Employment and Disability Institute at Cornell University and a Community Partner Work Incentive Counselor from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Navigating Delaware State Systems: A Personal Experience.
Speakers:
Kyle Eaves, Self-Advocate.
Dr. Shekelia Hines, PT, DPT, Director, Division of Services for Aging & Adults with Physical Disabilities.
Dava Newnam, Deputy Secretary for Special Populations, Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS).
Lisa Schieffert, MPA, Deputy Secretary for Social Services and Innovation Lead, Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS).
Session Description:
Have you ever asked yourself, “where do I begin to find help?” Hear one person’s experience with the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) on how to navigate (find your way around) some of the state systems available and identify what disability resources are available to you. Knowing which state agency to turn to can be overwhelming during a time of need. In addition to this person’s story, this session also gives a high-level overview of the different state agencies that offer disability support services and the latest developments to make state resources more accessible to the public.
Speaker Bios:
Kyle Eaves is a Delaware resident who has experienced a gradual loss of vision over the years. After undergoing seven years of cancer treatments beginning in 2003, his retinas thinned, and he became legally blind in May 2016. Kyle moved from Florida to Delaware in April 2023 and says Delaware has been the most supportive place he has lived for individuals with disabilities. The Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities has helped him maintain his independence by providing an Emergency Response System, personal assistance with household tasks and shopping, GoGo transportation services, and Meals on Wheels. The Division for the Visually Impaired has assisted Kyle with obtaining adaptive devices, applying for DART Paratransit services, and receiving his guide dog, Echo. In the summer of 2024, Kyle spent six weeks in Pennsylvania training with Echo where they built a strong partnership that helps Kyle navigate daily life with greater confidence and independence.
Dr. Shekelia Hines, PT, DPT, is Director of the Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD), where she is helping reshape services to meet the evolving needs of older adults and individuals with disabilities. With experience across Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), home care, hospice, and hospital settings, she brings a systems-level approach to care delivery. Dr. Hines has led efforts to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen service quality. Her division provides critical supports including Adult Protective Service (APS), case management, Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), and oversees the Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill (DHCI). Grounded in practical solutions and person-centered care, Shekelia is committed to building sustainable systems that support both individuals and those who serve them.
Dava Newnam is the Deputy Secretary of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) where she helps lead statewide efforts to improve service delivery for Delawareans. With more than 30 years of experience at DHSS, she has held a range of leadership roles, overseeing department-wide operations, strategic planning, and a multibillion-dollar budget. She also previously served as Director of the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities, where she led programs supporting vulnerable populations, including older adults and individuals with disabilities, and managed key state-run facilities and protective services.
Throughout her career, Deputy Secretary Newnam has been recognized for her deep institutional knowledge, operational leadership, and commitment to strengthening services for Delaware’s most vulnerable residents.
Lisa Schieffert, MPA, has more than 20 years of experience in health and social services, with a distinguished career spanning policy development, advocacy, and executive leadership. Social Services (DHSS) and most recently held the role of Program Operations Director at Catholic Charities. A dedicated servant leader, Lisa is known for fostering creativity, collaboration, and strong community partnerships. She holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Delaware. She previously served as Chief Policy Advisor for the Delaware Department of Health and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Marquette University. Lisa lives in Middletown with her husband, their two daughters, and an “overly joyous” goldendoodle.
Concurrent Session 3.
3:15pm – 4:30pm.
How to Support Your Well-Being When Everything Keeps Changing
Speakers:
Trina Cale-Rosario, MEd, Training and Education Manager I, Parent Advocate, Consumer of Respite Services.
Chantal Garrison, BS, Training & Education Specialist III, Delaware Division of Public Health, Office of Preparedness.
Angela Sartin, Self-Advocate.
Session Description:
Sometimes it feels impossible to just keep up in a world that is always changing. This session is about self-care for people with disabilities and their support networks. Attendees will learn things they can do to support physical health, emotional well-being, and build Personal Resilience: which is how we move forward knowing and feeling like we are ok. Presenters will share inclusive exercise resources for all abilities and explain how individuals and caregivers could use respite services to reduce stress and maintain balance in daily life. Attendees will leave with easy-to-use ways to build healthy routines, build resilience, and support well-being during stressful times of social and policy change.
Speaker Bios:
Trina Cale-Rosario, MEd, Training Manager, has over 26 years of training experience working for the State of Delaware since 1993 developing engaging training on Emergency Preparedness and Effective Communication for Access and Functional Needs Families and Assistive Technology. From 2020 – 2024, Trina coordinated Autism Delaware Parent 2 Parent training. Degrees: Master of Education Applied Technology, Bachelor of Science Organizational Dynamics Wilmington University, and Associate degree Applied Science Visual Communications Multimedia Technology Delaware Tech. Her love of instructional design includes developing curriculum for learners applying technology using webpages, videography, interactive infographics, and fliers. Trina spends time with her three children, Kia (37), Kalea (27), and TJ (22), advocating for their person with autism.
Chantal Garrison, BS, is dedicated to empowering others through knowledge, preparedness, and purpose. In her professional role as Training and Education Specialist with the Division of Public Health, Office of Preparedness, she facilitates impactful training for internal teams while coordinating statewide outreach efforts, encouraging Delaware communities to take ownership for emergency preparedness. A graduate of Delaware State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, she brings both expertise and empathy to her work. Grounded in resilience, she embodies a mindset rooted in gratitude and intentional living. Her message is simple yet powerful: never give up, make every moment count, appreciate each day, and pursue your passion with purpose. Chantal truly inspires others to move forward with strength, clarity, and hope.
Angela Sartin was born prematurely and diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 17 months. Despite being told she would never walk or talk, Angela exceeded expectations through determination, family support, and access to services. A 2011 graduate of Middletown High School, she has participated in Easterseals programs since 2014. Following the loss of her father in 2023, Angela continued to demonstrate resilience and independence. Since joining the EPIC program at the Bear-Glasgow YMCA in 2025, she has achieved significant improvements in strength, mobility, balance, and daily living skills. Angela enjoys family time, dining out, football, music, photo editing, Facebook, and lifelong learning.
Stronger Together: Building Friendships and Community Throughout Our Lives
Speakers:
Rebecca (“Becky”) Bradbeer, BSW, ART-REACH Board Member, HMS School Board Chair.Anthony Casillas, Recreational Aide, HMS School.
Vivien Terrell, Disability Advocate.
Session Description:
Relationships are the foundation of a happy life. But many individuals with disabilities may not have much experience developing those relationships with people who don’t have disabilities. In this session, we will discuss how relationships make us feel supported and connected and how good relationships can make us feel a part of a bigger community. Speakers will share their experiences building relationships and friendships and getting involved in their communities through work, play, and volunteering together.
Speaker Bios:
Rebecca (Becky) Bradbeer, BSW, is a 60-year-old woman with Cerebral Palsy who lives in Berwyn PA. Growing up in Philadelphia and on the Main Line, she is a graduate of Cabrini College, an avid theatergoer, and Ambassador of accessible Arts and Culture both locally and regionally. She is also on the Boards of several institutions including HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy, Philadelphia PA, and Art-Reach, Philadelphia PA and enjoys this role immensely. Becky also derives great pleasure sharing her life experiences as a means to broaden society’s positive perceptions of disability.
Anthony Casillas works as a Recreational Aide at the HMS School. In addition, he works at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and DJs at night. In 2024 Anthony became a member of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia LEND program. This program is specifically designed for individuals who have experienced disability and are looking to learn more about it and further develop their leadership skills; to then share their knowledge with others. Anthony describes himself as 33 years young and ready to go!
Vivien Terrell is a 2023 Partners in Policymaking graduate and proud daughter of Jeffrey Terrell and Deanna Warner; sister to Tru Terrell and granddaughter to Patsy Warner. Vivien identifies herself as an individual with autism as well as learning disability who is interested in kpop, anime, art and sports. During her experience participating in Partners in Policymaking, she was given the opportunity to speak in front of legislators/ representatives about bullying and how we can collectively better approach the topic of bullying. Vivien has experience speaking on the importance of assistive technology and the different kinds of assistive technology.
The State of Voting Accessibility in Delaware
Speakers:
Nina Kegelman, BA, Voting Rights Advocate, Community Legal Aid Society, Inc.
Cathleen Hartsky-Carter, BA,Community Relations Officer, State of Delaware Department of Elections.
Session Description:
What is voting like for people with disabilities in Delaware? Nina Kegelman, Voting Rights Advocate, and Cathleen Hartsky-Carter from the Department of Elections will provide an overview. This session will cover disability voter rights, common barriers according to surveys of Delaware’s polling places, and how to overcome problems throughout the voting process. The session will also share ways to get involved and help make voting more accessible for everyone. The Department of Elections will also be available at the LIFE Conference to demonstrate the voting machine and its accessibility features for participants.
Speaker Bios:
Nina Kegelman, BA, is a Voting Rights Advocate and paralegal at Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. in the Disability Rights Delaware program. Her advocacy work includes educating the public on disability voting rights and identifying and addressing barriers to voting for people with disabilities. She also assists with adult disability cases involving Medicaid, accommodations, and self-advocacy with community-based care providers. A native of Wilmington, Delaware, she is committed to making Delaware a leader for disability rights in the country.
Cathleen Hartsky-Carter, BA, is the Community Relations Officer at Delaware Department of Elections and has nearly 30 years of hands-on experience advancing voting accessibility. Her work with election accessibility began while she was an undergraduate history student at the University of Delaware, where she along with other students visited every polling site in the county to assess accessibility and conduct surveys according to ADA guidelines. She later became a Voter Registration and Elections Supervisor, where she continued contributing to polling place accessibility efforts. Since 2021, she has served as the Department’s Community Relations Officer, working closely with organizations such as Disability Rights Delaware to address the needs of voters with disabilities. Her responsibilities include resolving polling place accessibility issues, expanding outreach efforts, and improving access to voter information. Recently, she has also collaborated with the Department’s IT team to redesign the agency’s website in accordance with the latest digital accessibility standards.
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