November 20-22, 2019
Greater Columbus Convention Center | Columbus, OH
OCALICON is the nation’s premier conference where 3,000+ participants from around the nation and across the globe come together to learn, network, and share research, best practices, and resources to support people with autism spectrum disorder, sensory disabilities, and low-incidence disabilities across the lifespan.
With only about a month to go, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome you to Columbus, Ohio! For those already registered or those thinking about attending for the first time, here are a few things you don’t want to miss:
1. Inclusive Education Leadership Institute
OCALI is excited to continue its ongoing partnership with the Ohio Department of Education’s Office for Exceptional Children by integrating the 2019 Inclusive Education Leadership Institute with OCALICON. Through this partnership, attendees will have the opportunity to extend their professional learning and networking experiences.
With its expanded platform for both general and special education leaders, the Institute provides a forum for leaders to work together to develop a system of coordinated partnerships to support and address the needs of the whole child. From principals, superintendents, curriculum directors, special education directors, building team leaders, pupil service directors, and general and special educators – the Inclusive Education Leadership Institute has something to offer everyone.
2. Dynamic Keynotes
Wednesday Keynote: Lee Stickle, Emily Rubin, and Shawn Henry
As leaders in their respective states, each for more than two decades, Lee Stickle, director of the TASN Autism and Tertiary Behavior Support Project in Kansas; Emily Rubin, director of the Educational Outreach Program and the Marcus Center and Emory University; and Shawn Henry, executive director at OCALI will share from their experiences and provide a framework for a collective vision as we look toward the future. As authors, influencers, international presenters, and respected leaders, this trio will inspire us to work together to effect change.
Thursday Keynote: Sheila Graschinsky
Sheila Graschinsky is the mother of 4 boys. Her eldest, Ian, has cerebral palsy, a condition that affects his mobility and language. She is the founder and president of Fundación IAN, which promotes inclusion by bringing disability closer to homes and providing tools so that we can all be an active part in building a more inclusive society. Ian was also the inspiration for the recent animated short film of the same name produced by renowned director, Juan José Campanella.
Friday Keynote: LeDerick Horne
Diagnosed with a learning disability in the third grade, LeDerick Horne defies any and all labels. He’s a dynamic spoken-word poet. A tireless advocate for all people with disabilities. An inspiring motivational speaker. A bridge-builder between learners and leaders across the U.S. and around the world who serves as a role model for all races, genders, and generations.
3. NEW: Power Walk with Peers
6:00 am | Thursday, Nov. 21 and Friday, Nov. 22
Calling all early risers! Jump start your day – and connect with fellow attendees – with an early morning group walk ’n talk! Join the fun and fellowship as we take a lap around the Greater Columbus Convention Center (inside, of course! It is Columbus in November, after all) before conference sessions and activities begin. It’s a great way to informally connect with other conference-goers, all while getting in some steps for the day. Bonus—complimentary coffee will be waiting for you at the end to help further charge your morning and get you ready for more learning, connections, and discovery. All are welcome. Come one or both days!
4. Hundreds of Sessions & Networking Opportunities
OCALICON offers more than 260 learning sessions on a range of topics across the lifespan and across diverse population targets, including individuals with autism, visual and hearing impairments, communication and sensory processing disorders, and emotional and intellectual disabilities. Learn and connect with 450+ experts, practitioners, and leaders in the field from across the U.S. and beyond.
5. Tuesday Night Kickoff
6:00 pm | Tuesday, November 19
We’re going to get the OCALICON party started at our Kickoff Festivities! Beat the Wednesday morning registration rush, while you pick up your conference tote bag, program, and CEU packet. Plus, you can spin the prize wheel for a chance to win cool prizes, enjoy some delicious cookies and popcorn, rock out to music, and more. A few lucky winners will find a Golden Ticket in their tote bag – redeemable for a cool prize pack!
From learning new ideas and strategies, to hearing real-life stories of change, it is the power of this collective community that makes OCALICON a unique and unforgettable experience. And one that can continue after you leave Columbus.
OCALI Now 