Florida Federation DCDT/CEC

Over 700 attended the 14th International Conference of the Division of Career Development and Transition at Disney's Contemporary Hotel and Convention Center in October. For two and half days, breakout sessions provided opportunities to gain insight to research-based practices and connect with colleagues from across the country. The Disney setting magically enchanted all to begin the process of "Building Castles...Building Dreams...and seeing the Magic of Transition", the theme of the conference.

Comedian Josh Blue opened the event with a comedic perspective of his life as an individual with a disability. He used his sense of humor to defy stereotypes and encourage others to overcome their preconceived notions about people considered disabled.

During the conference luncheon, Heather Whitestone McCallum, the first Miss America with a hearing impairment, inspired the audience with her road to success. She inspired others to use her Star's strategy, Success Through Action and Realization to reach for their dreams. Her courage and determination renewed the vitality to face the challenges each of us have occurring in our lives.

The conference provided the information and motivation to see the magic of transition and return to work ready to build castles and build dreams through a coordinated set of activities.

FSNA (Florida Special Needs Association) and Florida DCDT will be sponsoring the 15th VISIONS conference this year in Orlando at the Radisson World Gate Resort on February 14 and 15, 2008.

This conference is geared toward educators at middle, high and postsecondary schools, along with educators in exceptional education and in career and technical education. The conference is opened to administrators, counselors, business and agency partners, parents, students and advocates.

This year's theme "Open the Gate to Opportunity" will provide research-based and effective practices in the areas such as transition initiatives for post-secondary, middle and high school, diversity, business/employment, technology, advocacy, and interagency collaboration. Be watching for a call for presentations. Information on the conference can be found on the website of The Transition Center, www.thetransitioncenter.org.