Friday, March 27, 2026 l 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM l Webinar

When systems shift, lived experience becomes one of our most reliable forms of policy intelligence. In a time of evolving policies, funding debates, and administrative change, disability systems are being tested in both visible and subtle ways. This session explores how disability policy shapes experiences across the lifespan — from education and employment to healthcare and aging — and what this moment reveals about the stability of those systems. Participants will reflect on the power of storytelling and affirming language to shape public understanding and strengthen systems by centering disabled voices and lived expertise.

Emily Voorde, MEd, MPP 
Founder and CEO
INTO Strategies
South Bend, IN

Friday, April 10, 2026 l 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM l Webinar

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD) share core similarities in neurocognitive functioning, self-regulation, and adaptive behavior symptoms. Current diagnostic frameworks emphasize adaptive functioning rather than IQ in determining disability severity, and emerging research indicates that FASD can impact daily functioning just as much as, or even more than, IDD. This presentation offers an overview of both conditions and examines areas of overlap and distinction, including scope of functional impairment, severity, screening and diagnostic considerations, planning for adulthood, and evidence-based interventions across the lifespan.

Natalie Novick Brown, PhD
Clinical Assistant Professor
University of Washington
Federal Way, WA

Friday, April 17, 2026 | Webinar

Research on autism in adulthood has grown over the last two decades, while still representing only a small portion of autism research. Notable advancements in the field include the direct involvement of autistic people in research and focusing on topics identified as important by the community. This presentation will delve into two high-priority areas of research — supporting successful transitions to adulthood and promoting mental health — to examine ways to support autistic people to thrive in adulthood. The presenter will share key concepts from two research-informed, community-based programs that can be integrated into service provision. Both programs were based on extensive interviews with autistic individuals and their family members, providing critical guidance on ways to support autistic people to thrive.

Anne V. Kirby, PhD, OTR/L
Researcher
Salt Lake City, UT

Friday, May 8, 2026

Medical providers, families, and schools often treat guardianship as the default for adults with developmental disabilities, viewing it as harmless and inevitable. There are risks and downsides to guardianship, even when the guardian is acting in good faith. There are numerous formal and informal alternatives to guardianship that allow people with developmental disabilities to communicate preferences and direct their own lives, while still receiving support from family, friends, and professionals. This presentation will discuss alternatives to guardianship, why alternatives are important, what the alternatives are, and practical tools for implementing these tools in professional and family settings.

Zoe Brennan-Krohn, JD
Director, Disability Rights Program
American Civil Liberties Union
San Francisco, CA