Accessible Ohio Conference and Expo: Keynote Address by Dr. Rosemarie Rossetti

 

Director Miller shakes hands with Dr. Rosemarie Rossetti at the Accessible Ohio Conference & Expo on July 23, 2024.

 

We are excited to share the keynote address from the Accessible Ohio Conference and Expo, held on July 23, 2024, at the Fawcett Center in Columbus, Ohio. This inaugural event, themed "Ohio, The Heart of Accessibility," brought together experts, advocates, and organizations dedicated to promoting accessibility and inclusion throughout the state.

 

Meet Dr. Rosemarie Rossetti, Keynote Speaker

 

Dr. Rosemarie Rossetti is an internationally recognized expert in disability inclusion, universal design, and accessibility. As a dynamic speaker, author, and consultant, she has dedicated her career to advocating for inclusive environments that enhance the lives of people with disabilities.

 

In 2004, Dr. Rossetti was crowned Ms. Wheelchair Ohio, and since then, she has become a powerful voice in the disability community. Her personal journey began in 1998 when she acquired a spinal cord injury, leading her to connect with OOD’s Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation and champion the importance of accessibility in all aspects of life.

 

Together with her husband, Dr. Rossetti designed and built the Universal Design Living Laboratory, North America's highest-rated universal design home. This project serves as a national demonstration of how universal design principles can create welcoming and functional spaces for everyone.

 

Why Accessibility Matters

 

In her keynote presentation titled "Why Accessibility Matters," Dr. Rossetti shares valuable insights on the critical importance of incorporating accessibility from the outset. Her message motivates us to envision and work toward a more inclusive future.

 

Watch the video of Dr. Rosemarie Rossetti's keynote address.