Prince Conference Center Calvin University
1800 E. Beltline Ave. SE
Join us for Disability Awareness Day, an annual event that brings together persons with disabilities, advocates, agency staff, and community members for a day of connection, empowerment, and action, where you can discover valuable resources, learn new skills, and engage with local elected leaders to advance disability advocacy.
Registration: $25 per person (scholarships available upon request)
Vendor Tables: $50, includes display table, chairs and lunch.
________________________________________________
2026 Keynote Speakers
Morning Keynote: Rynita McGuire,
Ms. Michigan Wheelchair
Rynita McGuire, Ms. Michigan Wheelchair, brings a powerful blend of advocacy, lived experience, and leadership to the stage. As a statewide ambassador for disability awareness and inclusion, she uses her platform to elevate conversations around accessibility, representation, and the everyday realities faced by people with disabilities. Her keynote will offer an inspiring and grounded perspective on resilience, community, and the importance of designing systems and spaces that welcome everyone. Attendees can expect an energizing start to the day from a speaker who leads with authenticity and purpose.
Lunch Keynote: Elizabeth Hertel,
Director, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Elizabeth Hertel, Director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, will join us during the lunch hour to share insights from her leadership at the state’s largest agency. Director Hertel oversees critical programs that shape the health, safety, and well‑being of millions of Michigan residents, including Medicaid, public health, behavioral health, and family services. Her keynote will highlight current priorities, emerging challenges, and the state’s vision for strengthening support systems across Michigan. Attendees will gain a valuable, high‑level look at the policies and partnerships influencing the future of health and human services in our region.
2026 Breakouts
What to Expect: Federal Funding Cuts and Michigan’s Status on Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, and Housing Assistance
Led by the Michigan League for Public Policy.
Community Mental Health Changes in Michigan
Led by Regina Salmi, Network 180
Employability Resource Panel Led by Ella Bonner of Disability Advocates of Kent County. Featuring Beyond 26, Noorthoek Academy, and Ready For Life Academy.
Technology Panel
Led by Veronica Horsley-Pettigrew, Care Resources on PACE and the Services they offer.
Leisure Activities and Disabilities: The Importance of Recreation
Led by Tasha Holliman, City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation.
________________________________________________
General Questions, GoBus Tickets, scholarships, or event accommodations:
Contact Lydia Shangle at intern3@dakc.us or 616.323.2218
Volunteer Opportunities:
Contact Courtney Redman at courtney.r@dakc.us or 616-600-6835
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Contact Michele Trevathan at michele.t@dakc.us or 616.323.2208
About This Event
March 13, 2026
9:00am-2:00pm
Prince Conference Center Calvin University
1800 E. Beltline Ave. SE
Join us for Disability Awareness Day, an annual event that brings together persons with disabilities, advocates, agency staff, and community members for a day of connection, empowerment, and action, where you can discover valuable resources, learn new skills, and engage with local elected leaders to advance disability advocacy.
Registration: $25 per person (scholarships available upon request)
Vendor Tables: $50, includes display table, chairs and lunch.
________________________________________________
2026 Keynote Speakers
Morning Keynote: Rynita McGuire,
Ms. Michigan Wheelchair
Rynita McGuire, Ms. Michigan Wheelchair, brings a powerful blend of advocacy, lived experience, and leadership to the stage. As a statewide ambassador for disability awareness and inclusion, she uses her platform to elevate conversations around accessibility, representation, and the everyday realities faced by people with disabilities. Her keynote will offer an inspiring and grounded perspective on resilience, community, and the importance of designing systems and spaces that welcome everyone. Attendees can expect an energizing start to the day from a speaker who leads with authenticity and purpose.
Lunch Keynote: Elizabeth Hertel,
Director, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Elizabeth Hertel, Director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, will join us during the lunch hour to share insights from her leadership at the state’s largest agency. Director Hertel oversees critical programs that shape the health, safety, and well‑being of millions of Michigan residents, including Medicaid, public health, behavioral health, and family services. Her keynote will highlight current priorities, emerging challenges, and the state’s vision for strengthening support systems across Michigan. Attendees will gain a valuable, high‑level look at the policies and partnerships influencing the future of health and human services in our region.
2026 Breakouts
What to Expect: Federal Funding Cuts and Michigan’s Status on Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, and Housing Assistance
Led by the Michigan League for Public Policy.
Community Mental Health Changes in Michigan
Led by Regina Salmi, Network 180
Employability Resource Panel Led by Ella Bonner of Disability Advocates of Kent County. Featuring Beyond 26, Noorthoek Academy, and Ready For Life Academy.
Technology Panel
Led by Veronica Horsley-Pettigrew, Care Resources on PACE and the Services they offer.
Leisure Activities and Disabilities: The Importance of Recreation
Led by Tasha Holliman, City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation.
________________________________________________
General Questions, GoBus Tickets, scholarships, or event accommodations:
Contact Lydia Shangle at intern3@dakc.us or 616.323.2218
Volunteer Opportunities:
Contact Courtney Redman at courtney.r@dakc.us or 616-600-6835
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Contact Michele Trevathan at michele.t@dakc.us or 616.323.2208
Getting There
Prince Conference Center-Calvin College
1800 E Beltline Ave SE
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546
United States
