First Steps and Infancy Onward are partnering with the Early Childhood Center to hold a statewide conference for early intervention providers and families of children with disabilities. This special conference brings everyone together to share, learn, and network. The conference will be held in Bloomington, IN on June 8-9, 2023. The cost is $75 (early bird rate) until Feb 14, 2023 when it goes up to $100. There will be a live stream of the main conference room available for $25 to those who are unable to attend in person. For more information please visit the conference website.
Sonia Manzano
“MARIA” ON SESAME STREET & BEST-SELLING AUTHOR
For over 40 years, Sonia Manzano inspired, educated, and delighted children and families as "Maria" on Sesame Street. Named among the “25 Greatest Latino Role Models Ever” by Latina Magazine, Manzano broke ground as one of the first Hispanic characters on national television. Throughout her career, she has continued to contribute to enriching diversity on television, on the stage, and in the educational realm. A first generation Puerto Rican born on the mainland, Manzano’s tale is one of perseverance and courage as she overcame countless obstacles to become one of the most influential Latinas in television.
Dr. Gina Forrest
Dr. Gina Forrest is a native of Bloomington, Indiana. She graduated from Indiana University with a Master of Public Health and a PhD in Health Behavior, focusing on Health Disparities.
Dr. Forrest is also veteran educator, trainer, researcher, and thought leader who has been focusing on inclusivity issues for many years. She previously served as Chief Diversity Officer of the Indiana Supreme Court, lecturer and Director of Workforce Development and Community Engagement at Indiana University, and Executive Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Butler University. She also has experience as a clinic manager and health educator and now serves Aspire Indiana Health as its new Chief Culture Officer (CCO).
Adar Cohen
How to have difficult conversations
Adar Cohen is a mediator. For 20 years he has led conversations in conflict zones, family rooms, and other places where people can change the world. His work has been featured by the New York Times, MSNBC, and on the TED stage. Adar holds a PhD in conflict resolution from the University of Dublin. He has lectured at Harvard University, the University of Chicago, and at the invitation of the King of Bhutan, at Sherubste College, the Himalayan Kingdom’s first institution for higher education. He is a co-founder of Civic Leadership Foundation, which has supported over 25,000 young people in preparing for success in school, in their careers, and as citizens. His book, Jimmie Lee & James, is now available in paperback. Adar lives in New Hampshire where he and his wife are raising two tough little negotiators.
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