External Conference

This three day conference provides a host of information and networking opportunities for those interested in improving lives of individuals with disabilities. The mission of DCDT is to promote national and international efforts to improve the quality of and access to career/vocational and transition services, increase the participation of education in career development and transition goals, and influence policies affecting career development and transition for persons with disabilities.

The Postsecondary Disability Training Institute (PTI) is sponsored by the Center on Postsecondary Education and Disability at the University of Connecticut. Now in its 30th year, PTI is held in conveniently located cities in the Northeast each June and draws over 300 participants per year from across the United States and Canada.

This popular conference of 300+ participants provides opportunities for colleges and universities, researchers, program staff, parents and self-advocates to learn about the current state of research and practice in the field, and to network with each other. Panels that include faculty and staff from postsecondary education initiatives, parents, self-advocates, and other experts, share effective practices during break-out sessions with opportunities for group discussion.

Now in its 41st year, Equity & Excellence: Access in Higher Education draws approximately 1,500 participants from around the world for a week of extraordinary professional development and networking. Presenters and participants come from diverse fields, including education, technology, law, scholarship, and government, but share a common interest in fostering equitable higher education experiences for disabled individuals.

Each year, thousands of people from across the globe attend the NDSC Annual Convention. For most, it’s to hear the latest information from world-renowned experts. PARENTS, come and learn from the best, as internationally known experts come to Sacramento to share their knowledge across the life span of individuals with DS. SELF ADVOCATES, join together with over 300 friends from across the world to learn, share, become empowered and have an amazing time! SIBLINGS, come and share and learn alongside peers, from each other, as well as from professionals.

The Williams Syndrome National Convention is comprised of more than 50 educational sessions for caregivers and professionals. Valuable information and resources will be presented to help you understand Williams syndrome, and provide strategies to use in helping your child be the best that he or she can be.

This summit is designed to connect creative educators and researchers seeking to transform higher education through innovations that enhance student learning. The Higher Education Innovation Summit will give you the opportunity to:

The Disability Policy Seminar is the premier opportunity to cultivate champions on Capitol Hill and advance the grassroots movement for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). For 40 years, this unique platform has offered the opportunity to come together with passionate advocates, self-advocates, experts, and professionals in the field to learn about key issues.

Think College Coalition Master Session is held on Friday before the annual All Born (in) Cross-Disability Best Practices Inclusive Education Conference. This session brings together youth, parents, and professionals to build partnerships for collaboration and inform advocates invested in generating more post-secondary options for students with intellectual/developmental disabilities in the NW region.