This summer took me somewhere I’d never been before, both literally and figuratively. I had the chance to attend Disability:IN’s annual conference in Orlando, and even now, I’m still processing just how powerful those few days were. It was my first time at the conference, and it left an imprint I’m not sure I’ll ever fully shake… in the best possible way.
From the moment I stepped into the mainstage sessions, I felt the energy buzzing. Two conversations in particular stayed with me long after the lights dimmed. The dialogue with Eva Erickson and Mitch Guerra was deeply inspiring, the kind of conversation that reminds you why this work matters. And the session featuring Molly Burke and Sinéad Burke was an absolute standout. I’ve just recently finished reading an advance copy of Molly’s memoir Unseen and hearing her speak about her journey added a whole new layer of meaning. Her story is remarkable. So resilient, honest, and full of the kind of perspective that shifts something inside you.
But the moment that felt the most surreal?
Being on stage myself.
I had the honor of joining a powerhouse panel focused on marketing and building consumer‑centric campaigns that genuinely include and empower people with disabilities. It was part of my work with Disability:IN’s CCO and CMO Coalition, a space where I get to bring together two parts of my life that don’t always get to meet: the world I navigate outside of work, and the world I operate in professionally. Standing there, speaking alongside leaders who care deeply about representation and equity, I felt that rare click of alignment. It was like I was exactly where I was supposed to be.
The conversations were rich. The insights were deep. And the energy? Electric.
Another highlight was finally meeting Jim O’Connell, our equitABLE BRG Lead at Weber Shandwick, in person. We’ve exchanged countless ideas virtually, but getting to connect face‑to‑face sparked a whole new wave of inspiration. I left with a notebook full of thoughts I can’t wait to bring back to our team and agency. Especially as I gear up as the incoming lead for equitABLE for 2026.
I realized, as I sat down to write this, that part of why it took me a while to put these reflections into words is because the experience was bigger than a single moment or session. It was a reminder of the momentum building across industries, across communities, and within myself. It was a reminder that the work of inclusion isn’t abstract. It’s personal, it’s evolving, and it’s powered by people who show up with intention.
So here I am, marking the moment.
There’s more to unpack, more to build, and more to share as this journey continues. But for now, I’m holding onto the gratitude. Gratitude for the conversations, the connections, and the chance to stand at this intersection where my worlds meet and make something meaningful.
More to come soon as we keep pushing forward.
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