[Nfbnet-members-list] Join us virtually or in-person for the NFB of Minnesota State Convention this coming weekend!

[Corbb O'Connor]

[image: National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota. Live the life you
want.]

2025 Annual Convention
#NFBMN
November 14-16, 2025


*Best Western Rochester Hotel, Mayo Clinic Area*1517 16th Street SW,
Rochester, MN 55902

*Corbb O’Connor, President*
National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota
2801 Hennepin Avenue, South #126, Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 872-9363, president at nfbmn.org
www.nfbmn.org

*National Representative: *
Norma Crosby
Treasurer, National Federation of the Blind
and President, NFB of Texas
Alvin, Texas

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and
all blind people in the United States. We know that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination,
and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.
Registration

Registration is required to attend and take part in convention activities.
Please consult the times in the agenda for when the registration desk will
be open. On-site registration is available for $30. A limited number of
meals are available at the following rates:

   - Friday lunch: $20
   - Friday dinner: $30
   - Senior breakfast: $27
   - Saturday lunch: $30
   - Saturday banquet: $55
   - Sunday breakfast: $25

Please also ensure we have your most current contact information, including
your email address. If you do not currently receive *The* *Braille Monitor*—our
national monthly magazine—please let us know, and we will sign you up.
Assistive Listening Devices

We will offer assistive listening devices to make it easier for people with
hearing loss to hear presentations. A transmitter is directly connected to
the sound system, and small receivers can receive the signal throughout the
meeting room. You can connect your own headphones to the receiver, or we
can supply headphones. In addition, we have a couple of neck loops
available that will allow the receiver to be heard directly by hearing aids
with T-Coils.

If you have a need for such a device, after you arrive at the hotel, you
can contact Rocky Hart at (218) 839-4544 to make arrangements to check out
a receiver. We ask that you give a $10 cash deposit that will be returned
to you when the receiver is turned back in.
A Note about Support Service Providers

Deafblind individuals may be engaging SSPs and American Sign Language (ASL)
interpreters. SSPs help with environmental information, communication, and
orientation, supporting their clients in a self-directed manner. ASL
interpreters aid with signing or communication facilitation. SSPs and
interpreters are here to support their clients and are not convention
participants. Please refrain from asking them to introduce themselves or
join convention activities, so they can focus on their assigned tasks.
Gender-Neutral Restroom

A gender-neutral restroom is found near the pool. Please consult the front
desk for specific directions.
Auction

One of our largest state fundraisers will again be our auction of services,
some baked goods, and other donated items. We’ve also added several items
to an accessible, online silent auction.

Please stop by our table in the Royal Ballroom during General Sessions or
the hospitality reception on Friday to drop off your items.
Door Prizes

Prizes will be awarded throughout the convention. To be eligible, you must
be registered and present in the room when your name is drawn. Donations
should be brought to the tables in the ballroom before the start of Friday
or Saturday’s general sessions.
Live Streaming

For those unable to join us in person this weekend, the convention will be
live streamed using the Zoom platform. You will not be able to participate
or vote via Zoom.

Join Zoom meeting
<https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97449266106?pwd=ISVwPW6aKxXkCExebckDoLDgUyZObw.1>
– https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97449266106
Meeting ID: 974 4926 6106
Passcode: 19202025

You may also join by phone by calling (312) 626-6799 and enter the meeting
ID and passcode above.
Vehicle Donations

The National Federation of the Blind uses car donations to improve the
education of blind children, distribute free white canes, help veterans,
and so much more. We have partnered with Vehicles for Charity to process
donated vehicles. Please call (855) 659-9314, and a representative can make
arrangements. You can also donate online by visiting
www.nfb.org/vehicledonations.


Thursday, November 13, 2025: Reuniting our Community7:00 PM-9:00 PM—Unwind
and Connect: An Accessible, Low-Sensory Social (Hotel Breakfast Area)

Looking for a quieter way to kick off convention weekend? Start your
weekend your way with a relaxed, sensory-aware social gathering that offers
space to unwind and connect in comfort. Whether you prefer calmer settings,
want to meet new people, or simply need a break from the noise, you’ll find
an easy-going atmosphere and friendly faces here. Rocky Hart, Coordinator.
7:00 PM-10:00 PM—Splash, Soak, and Socialize: A Night at the Pool (Pool
Area)

Kickoff convention in a fun, family-friendly setting with a water slide,
splash pad, kiddie pool, basketball hoop, and hot tub. Come and go as you
please, meet up with friends, welcome some new faces, and start your
weekend in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Friday, November 1: Welcoming our Community8:00 AM-4:00 PM—Pre-Registration
Packet Pickup & On-site Registration (Grand Foyer & Empire Entrance)

Pastries, gluten-free pastries, and coffee will be available. Those who
pre-registered should pick up meal tickets and agendas. Registration is
required to attend convention sessions. A limited number of extra meals may
be available for purchase.
8:30 AM-6:00 PM—Exhibits (Grand Hallway)

   - EZ2See®
   - Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library
   - Selvas BLV
   - State Services for the Blind

9:30 AM-11:25 AM—General Session (Royal Ballroom)

Coffee will be available.

   - 9:30 AM, Call to Order
   - 9:35 AM, Welcome to Rochester—Jan Bailey, Rochester Chapter President
   - 9:50 AM, Working Together for Access and Opportunity in Minnesota's
   1st Congressional District—Congressman Brad Finstad
   - 9:55 AM, Report from our National Office—Norma Crosby, NFB Treasurer
   and President, NFB of Texas
   - 10:25 AM, The Stillwater Market Story: Confidence, Community, and a
   Wagon Full of Freshness—Dave Andrews, At-Large Chapter President and
   NFBMN Secretary
   - 10:35 AM, Convention Logistics
   - 10:40 AM, Creating Opportunity Together: Fundraising through our
   Online Auction—Charlotte Czarnecki, Chairperson
   - 10:50 AM, Words Matter: Strengthening Confidence from the Inside
   Out—Kotumu Kamara, NFBMN Board Member
   - 11:00 AM, Charting a Course for Accessible Learning and Mobility in
   Rochester—Mayor Kim Norton
   - 11:15 AM, Announcements
   - 11:25 AM, Adjourn

11:45 AM-1:00 PM—Get Ready: Turning Job Postings into Real Possibilities
(Grand C)

Start your employment journey with clear, practical guidance on how to
search smarter and prepare with confidence. We’ll explore where people are
finding job postings today, how to read a post for what really matters, and
how to align your experience to what employers are looking for.
Facilitators will share examples and strategies to help you get ready for
screenings and interviews with clarity and confidence. Hosted by the
Minnesota Center for the Blind and Saavi Services for the Blind.
11:45 AM-1:00 PM—Let’s Talk About Organizing: The Moral Questions Behind
Our Movement (Royal Ballroom)

The National Federation of the Blind has always believed that the blind
themselves must lead the way—but why is that leadership a moral duty as
much as a practical one? This conversation will explore the deeper reasons
behind organizing together: our obligations to one another, the balance
between independence and interdependence, and how unity strengthens, rather
than silences, diversity. Come ready to think, question, and share your
ideas on what it means to act collectively for truth and equality. Cody
Beardslee, NFBAZ Tucson Chapter President.
11:45 AM-5:00 PM—Imagination in Motion: A Drop-In Art Room for Makers and
Dreamers (Grand A)

Need a break from the hustle of convention? Come recharge your imagination
with direct, tactile artmaking in the Drop-In Art Room: a relaxed, creative
space open to everyone. No experience is needed; stay for a few minutes or
lose track of time while exploring rainbow loom jewelry, tactile drawing,
sculpting, flip-pics, and other imaginative projects. Whether you’re a
lifelong maker or just curious to try something new, this is a welcoming
place to express yourself, create freely, and connect with others through
art. Minh Ha, Tulie Lomax, and Tai Tomasi, Facilitators.
11:45 AM-6:00 PM—The Convention Escape Room Challenge: Wake Up and Break
Out (Hotel Breakfast Area)

After a fun night at convention, you fall asleep at breakfast. You wake
with only 30 minutes to get to the presidential report. While you were
passed out, mischief was about—now you must solve the clues in time to pay
your dues. Think fast and work together to solve several Federation-themed
puzzles.

To join the adventure, sign up with Debbie Hobson ahead of time, or stop by
to get her phone number and reserve a later time slot. Space is limited, so
be sure to claim your spot before the clock runs out! Debbie Hobson and Jen
Sawczyn, Facilitators.
1:00 PM-2:00 PM—Lunch (Grand A)


2:15 PM-3:45 PM—Demystifying AI: How to Use It, Shape It, and Thrive with
It (Grand B)

Whether you love it or hate it, artificial intelligence and tools like
ChatGPT are part of everything we do online. As this trend continues, the
ability to effectively interact with and leverage AI has become a critical
job skill. In this session, we’ll explore practical strategies for engaging
AI to solve real-world problems. We'll also discuss and differentiate
between the AI models you are likely to meet in both personal and
professional settings and demonstrate how to craft effective prompts to
help you use AI to its full potential. Steve Sawczyn, NFBMN Vice President.
2:15 PM-3:45 PM—When Access Meets Identity: Building Belonging for All
(Grand C)

A sense of home comes from knowing you belong. This conversation invites
open, genuine talk about what makes a space feel warm…and what happens when
it doesn’t. Together, we’ll explore how real access helps people feel seen,
valued, and connected, not just accommodated. Through shared stories and
reflection, we’ll look at how each of us can help build communities where
everyone feels welcome, respected, and at home. Kotumu Kamara, NFBMN Board
Member; Kia Sadler; and Showe Trela, Facilitators.
4:00 PM-4:45 PM—Resolutions Committee: Shaping the Policies of Our Movement
(Royal Ballroom)

All attendees are invited to contribute to the work of the Resolutions
Committee as we consider proposed policy statements that shape the
direction of the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota. This is
where members bring forward ideas, debate their language and purpose, and
determine which resolutions will advance to the full convention for final
consideration. It’s a terrific opportunity to understand how our movement’s
priorities are set and how Federation philosophy is reflected in our public
policy. Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson.
4:30 PM-6:00 PM—Own the Moment: Look and Feel Great in Any Photo (including
Selfies!) (Grand B)

Hosted by blind presenters who know what it takes to feel at ease and
expressive, this session brings a fresh, fun take on what it means to be
“photo ready.” We'll dive into the practical and empowering techniques that
help blind people feel confident, expressive, and self-assured in photos.
You’ll practice body language, posture, learn a few insider tricks, and
discover how to project your personality with ease. Expect to learn,
experiment, and enjoy the process. Photos are about more than
pictures…they’re about showing up as your authentic, confident self and
enjoying it! Tulie Lomax and Tai Tomasi, Facilitators.
5:00 PM-5:45 PM—Town Hall with State Services for the Blind: Your Voice
Matters in Our Continued Evolution (Royal Ballroom)

In this open conversation, agency representatives will highlight progress
and invite direct input from the community. Discussion will include public
comments and next steps related to housing and work-authorization policy
changes within Minnesota Rules Chapter 3325. Bring your ideas and questions
to help ensure that future programs and policies reflect the real
experiences and priorities of blind Minnesotans. Hosted by Director Natasha
Jerde and Deputy Director Jon Benson.
5:45 PM-6:45 PM—Casual Dinner (Grand A)

Grab a drink at the bar on your way in!
7:00 PM-8:00 PM—In-Person Meeting of the At-Large Chapter (Hotel Breakfast
Area)

David Andrews, President.
7:00 PM-8:30 PM—Minnesota Association of Blind Students Annual Meeting
(Grand C)

Ben Zheng, President.
7:00 PM-8:30 PM—Building a Brighter Financial Future: Budgeting, Credit,
Saving, and Investing for Beginners and Beyond (Grand B)

Money confidence starts with understanding where you are and where you want
to go. We'll share practical ways to track spending, build a realistic
budget, use credit responsibly, and begin saving and investing with
purpose. You’ll learn real examples of how steady, thoughtful choices can
lead to long-term stability and greater independence.

The session will also touch on more advanced topics, such as managing debt,
building credit, protecting your income with insurance, and getting started
with investments like retirement plans, ABLE accounts, and brokerage tools.
With straightforward discussion and personal insights, this workshop offers
a friendly, judgment-free space to strengthen your financial skills and
gain confidence in managing your money. Cody Beardslee, NFBAZ Tucson
Chapter President, and Mike Colbrunn, NFBMN Board Member, Facilitators.
8:00 PM-11:00 PM—Roll the Dice and Relax: Friday Night Hospitality (Grand A)

When the day’s done, the fun continues at our lively reception with good
company! Whether you’re a card shark, a Monopoly mogul, or just in it for
laughter, we’ll have accessible games ready for everyone to enjoy,
including favorites like Coup, Sorry, and Monopoly. We’ll also have a
spread of sweet, salty, and gluten-free snacks to keep you fueled for the
night at no cost to you. Hosted by the Rochester Chapter.
Dream Makers Circle

You can help build a future of opportunity for the blind by becoming a
member of our Dream Makers Circle (DMC). It is easier than you think. You
can visit your bank and convert an account to a P.O.D. (payable on death)
bank account, which is payable after your passing to our organization. Your
legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota can be
made in the form of a will or living trust, an income-generating gift, or
by naming us as the beneficiary of a retirement plan, IRA, pension, or a
life insurance policy. You can choose a specific amount, a percentage, or
list NFBMN as one of several beneficiaries. For more information, please
call Patti Chang at (410) 659-9314 x2422 or email PChang at nfb.org.
Saturday, November 2: Strengthening our Voice7:00 AM-8:30 AM—Breakfast with
the Seniors Division (Grand A)

Registration will be open 15 minutes before the meeting to pick up
breakfast tickets for those who arrived on Friday night.

Join us as we collaborate on topics for our upcoming winter meetings,
ensuring they reflect the needs and interests of our older members
experiencing vision loss. We’ll also hear from Ed Lecher, Director of the
Senior Services Unit at State Services for the Blind, who will share about
the services available for seniors. Judy Sanders, President.
8:30 AM-12:15 PM—Registration (Grand Foyer & Empire Entrance)


9:00 AM-11:45 AM—General Session (Royal Ballroom)

Coffee and a limited number of donuts will be available.

   - 9:00 AM, Call to Order
   - 9:05 AM, What the Department of Education’s Reduced Expertise Means
   for Blind Americans—Mike Colbrunn, NFBMN Board Member and Second Vice
   President, National Association of Blind Merchants, and Jennifer Dunnam,
   Chairperson, NFBMN Government Affairs Committee
   - 9:15 AM, Equal Work, Equal Worth: Advancing Disability Wage Justice in
   Minnesota—Jillian Nelson, Policy Director, Autism Society of Minnesota
   - 9:25 AM, What It's Really Like to be a Student in 2025: Words from our
   Joyce and Tom Scanlan Scholarship Finalists—Samantha Flax, Scholarship
   Committee Chairperson; Heather Kent; and Madeline Major
   - 9:45 AM, How Braille Displays and Advocacy Shape My Work while On the
   Record—Kayde Rieken, Court Reporter, Hennepin County District Court
   - 10:00 AM, Finding Your Pace: Building Community Through Adaptive
   Sports—Tai Tomasi, Accessibility Analyst, Renaissance Learning
   - 10:15 AM, Moving Literacy Forward—Catherine A. Durivage, Library
   Program Director, Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library
   - 10:30 AM, Minutes from our 2024 State Convention—David Andrews, NFBMN
   Secretary
   - 10:45 AM, Students Encouraging Confidence and Connection—Ben Zheng,
   President, Minnesota Association of Blind Students; and Benjamin Grelk,
   Board Member, National Association of Blind Students
   - 11:00 AM, Labels That Work for Us: Minnesota’s New Prescription
   Accessibility Law—Samantha Flax, Member, NFBMN Government Affairs Committee
   - 11:15 AM, The Federation on External Committees and Boards
   - 11:25 AM, Auction & Announcements
   - 11:45 AM, Adjourn

12:00 PM-1:45 PM—Lunch with the Minnesota Center for the Blind (Grand A)

Join us over lunch for updates from MCB. We’ll cover brief reports from the
staff and Board of Directors on current programs, partnerships, and plans
for the year ahead. One of our Senior Program participants will share their
experience with our latest initiative. Bring your questions and learn
simple ways to get involved, make referrals, and support the work. Briley
O'Connor, Executive Director.


2:00 PM-3:30 PM—General Session (Royal Ballroom)

   - 2:00 PM, Call to Order
   - 2:05 PM, Learning What Matters: Mastering Nonvisual Techniques for
   Tomorrow's Challenges—Cody Beardslee, NFBAZ Tucson Chapter President
   - 2:20 PM, Update from the Minnesota Department of Education—Diane
   Dohnalik, M.S.Ed., COMS, Specialist for the Blind and Visually Impaired,
   Minnesota Department of Education
   - 2:40 PM, Turning Feedback into Progress at State Services for the
   Blind—Natasha Jerde, SSB Director
   - 3:00 PM, Presidential Report—Corbb O'Connor, NFBMN President
   - 3:20 PM, Auction & Announcements
   - 3:30 PM, Adjourn

3:45 PM-5:15 PM—Get Reps: Firsthand Strategies for Real-World Employment
Success (Grand C)

You’ve done the prep—now it’s time for practice. In this guided, supportive
workshop, you’ll apply what you’ve learned through real-time feedback, mock
interviews, and collaborative problem-solving. We’ll tackle real employment
barriers and share tools for building confidence and persistence in your
job search. Hosted by the Minnesota Center for the Blind and Saavi Services
for the Blind.
3:45 PM-5:15 PM—Reimagining Chapter Leadership and Membership (Royal
Ballroom)

Strong chapters are built on shared leadership, active members, and a sense
of purpose. Yet too often, the work falls to a few. In this 90-minute
session, our national representatives will guide a discussion on how to
cultivate vibrant chapters that do more than hold monthly meetings. We’ll
exchange concrete ideas for community involvement, leadership development,
and meaningful action—reminding ourselves that local energy drives national
progress. Norma and Glenn Crosby, Facilitators.
3:45 PM-5:15 PM—Making Art with Code, Even If You’ve Never Written Any
(Grand B)

Text can transform into pictures even without AI! This beginner-friendly
session introduces a simple, text-based way to draw on a computer using
something called SVG, Scalable Vector Graphics. We’ll show how basic
commands can build shapes, apply color, and arrange designs. You can bring
a charged laptop to practice as we go or sit back and learn how it works.
No coding experience needed—just an open mind and a little curiosity. Minh
Ha, CPACC, Facilitator.
6:00 PM-6:45 PM—Happy Hour and Appetizers (Grand Foyer & Empire Entrance)

Join us before the banquet for friendly conversation, cocktails, and passed
appetizers.
7:00 PM-9:30 PM—Banquet (Grand A)

Steve Sawczyn, Emcee

   - Meditation: John Saphir, ManKind Project USA
   - Introduction of Harvest Table
   - Auctions, Raffles, and Drawings
   - Keynote Address: Norma Crosby, NFB Treasurer and President, NFB of
   Texas
   - Presentation of Joyce and Tom Scanlan Scholarships

9:30 PM-11:00 PM—Post-Banquet Social (Grand A)Preauthorized Contributions

Can you help the National Federation of the Blind on a regular basis?
Please consider joining our preauthorized contribution (PAC) plan. Starting
at $5 monthly, you can help us turn dreams into reality and raise
expectations. Call (877) 632-2722, visit www.nfb.org/pac to fill out the
online form, or email pac at nfb.org for additional information.


Sunday, November 3: Leading our Future7:00 AM-8:00 AM—Respect in Practice:
Navigating the World with and Around DeafBlind People (Grand B)

This practical discussion shares what to do—and what not to do—when
interacting with DeafBlind people. We’ll explore topics such as the
spectrum of DeafBlindness, why the term DeafBlind is written as one word,
and how to support—not overstep—when offering assistance. Afterward,
participants will share personal stories and insights that highlight the
diversity and richness of DeafBlind experiences. Rocky Hart, President,
National Federation of the Blind DeafBlind Division.
8:00 AM-8:45 AM—Breakfast (Grand A)


9:00 AM-12:00 PM—General Session (Royal Ballroom)

   - 9:00 AM, Call to Order and In Memorium
   - 9:10 AM, No Picture on the Box: Building Leadership Brick by
   Brick—Briley O'Connor, Executive Director, Minnesota Center for the Blind
   - 9:25 AM, Every Voice Matters: A Legislator’s Commitment to Families
   and Fairness—Minnesota Representative Kim Hicks
   - 9:40 AM, Beyond the Checkout: Building Access and Influence at
   Work—Steve Decker, Senior Manager of Accessibility, Target Corporation
   - 9:55 AM, Treasurer's Report—Jennifer Dunnam, NFBMN Treasurer
   - 10:15 AM, Outdoor Adventures for Blind Explorers on Slopes and
   Summits—Minh Ha, CPACC, Accessibility Consultant
   - 10:30 AM, Elections
   - 10:50 AM, Election of Delegate and Alternate Delegate to the 2026
   National Convention
   - 10:55 AM, Resolutions—Jennifer Dunnam, Resolutions Committee
   Chairperson
   - 11:20 AM, Brag & Steal: Chapter Reports
   - 11:40 AM, Announcements
   - 11:50 AM, Concluding Remarks from our National Representative**
   - 11:55 AM, Adjourn

Special Thanks

The activities of this organization can only succeed with the help and
dedication of many Federationists, and the convention is no exception. The
National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota offers particular thanks to
the Rochester Chapter for their hospitality, and to all of the many
Federationists who have worked both out in front and behind the scenes to
make this convention happen.
NFB of Minnesota Board of Directors:

   - Corbb O’Connor, Saint Paul (President)
   - Steve Sawczyn, Richfield (Vice President)
   - Jennifer Dunnam, Saint Louis Park (Treasurer)
   - David Andrews, Stillwater (Secretary)
   - Jan Bailey, Rochester
   - Michael Colbrunn, Mankato
   - Dale Heltzer, Rochester
   - Steve Jacobson, Edina
   - Kotumu Kamara, Saint Anthony

NFB of Minnesota Chapters

   - At-Large: David Andrews, President
   - Metro: Steve Sawczyn, President
   - Rochester: Jan Bailey, President



Divisions, Committees, and
Work Groups

   - Convention Auction: Charlotte Czarnecki, Briley O’Connor, and Jen
   Sawczyn
   - Convention Door Prizes: Amy Baron, Kallie Decker, Kyra Decker, John
   TeBockhorst, and Tom TeBockhorst
   - Convention Logistics: Samantha Flax and Steve Jacobson
   - Convention Photography: Lorraine Rovig
   - Convention Sound, Recording, and Streaming: Steve Jacobson and Mike
   Sahyun
   - Caring Circle: Steve Sawczyn, Chairperson
   - Deafblind Group, Rocky Hart, Chairperson
   - Government Affairs Committee: Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson
   - Minnesota Association of Blind Students: Ben Zheng,
   President
   - *Minnesota Bulletin* Editorial Team: Jennifer Dunnam and Kayde Rieken
   - Resolutions Committee: Jennifer Dunnam, Chairperson
   - Scholarship Committee: Samantha Flax, Chairperson
   - National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota Seniors’ Division: Judy
   Sanders, President
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