Historic 25th U.S. Conference on Disability Set for Oct. 7

The University of Scranton's U.S. Conference on Disability will celebrate a major milestone on Wednesday, Oct. 7, commemorating a quarter-century of advocacy, education and leadership dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.

This year's conference theme, "25 Years of Progress: Honoring the Legacy of Edward R. Leahy, Jr.," will focus on disability inclusion and careers, as well as transforming barriers into opportunities.

Founded through the generosity and vision of Edward and Patricia Leahy and inspired by their son, Edward R. Leahy, Jr., the conference has become one of the nation's longest-running university-based forums on disability issues. The conference has created a space where educators, health care professionals, policymakers, students, families and advocates can share ideas and research to better the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Among those who will speak at the event, hosted on campus at the DeNaples Center, are:

• 8:45 to 9:15 a.m. - Former U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, who currently serves The University of Scranton as its Leahy Distinguished Fellow in Public Service.

• 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. - Mason Ameri, Ph.D., professor of professional practice at Rutgers University.

• 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. - Kerry Magro, Ed.D., best-selling author and speaker.

• 1 to 2:30 p.m. - Kathy West-Evans and John Evans, founders of Abilities United Consulting.

• 3 to 4:30 p.m. - Rebecca Alexander, award-winning author and disability rights advocate.

The daylong event begins with registration and a continental breakfast from 7:45 to 8:30 a.m. and concludes at about 4:30 p.m. It is presented by The University of Scranton, the Leahy College of Health Sciences and the Edward R. Leahy, Jr., Endowment.

For more information, visit the conference's webpage.