Speakers and Sessions

Description: What if you knew that your smallest gesture could be the moment that changes everything for someone in your care? In this moving keynote, Sam Demma shares the inspiring story behind “Be Someone’s Taco”, a philosophy that celebrates the extraordinary power of everyday caregivers like you. Through personal stories and practical insights, Sam reveals how your daily acts of kindness create ripple effects that transform lives.  Perfect for Michigan’s dedicated Direct Care Workers, this empowering performance will help you recognize the profound impact you make every single day and feel deeply celebrated for the essential role you play in our communities.  Get ready to laugh, reflect, and leave feeling renewed in your purpose.  You are someone’s taco every day—discover how your compassion creates lasting change, one caring moment at a time.

Speaker Information

Sam Demma
Author, Keynote Speaker, and Performer

Sam Demma is a best-selling author and one of the most in-demand keynote speakers today. He has delivered over 600 performances across Canada, The United States and Kenya.  He was invited to deliver two TEDx talks, co-founded PickWaste—an organization that mobilized volunteers to pick up over 3000 bags of litter—and was awarded the prestigious Queens Platinum Jubilee Award for his exceptional national contributions. During the pandemic, Sam produced two viral graduation videos for students who missed their ceremonies and launched a partnership with Taco Bell to encourage people to engage in acts of kindness.

His work and interviews have been featured in The Globe & Mail, CBC, and CTV. He has been recognized as Top 25 Under 25. Sam’s multimedia platform, The High Performing Educator, has spotlit over 250 educators, and his bestselling debut book, Empty Your Backpack, has been called “a must-read for young dreamers.”. In his spare time, you can find Sam reading books, dancing the bachata, or journeying across the globe with his giant red backpack.

Description: IMPART Alliance has partnered with Corporation for a Skilled Workforce (CSW) and others to develop a series of competency-based direct care worker (DCW) certifications and build a sustainable model for their administration. This work began with a comprehensive job task analysis to define the full range of tasks, responsibilities, and competencies required of DCWs. Central to this process are DCWs themselves, who serve as subject matter experts and ensure the work reflects real-world practice. The resulting blueprint lays the groundwork for industry-recognized credentials that affirm DCWs as skilled professionals. In this session, attendees will learn about the statewide initiative to support DCWs, the credential development process, the important role DCWs are playing in credential development, and the next steps in the process.

Speaker Information

Jennifer Poole, PhD
Senior Policy Associate, Corporation for a Skilled Workforce (CSW)

Jenny Poole is a Senior Policy Associate with the Competencies & Credentials team, focused on dramatically expanding the use of competencies and non-degree credentials within learning and talent management systems to increase economic mobility for low-wage workers and close racial disparity gaps. Jenny has over 12 years of experience managing large, complex projects, including professional development programs for non-profit organizations like the American Institutes for Research (AIR), the University of Virginia, the U.S. Green Building Council, and the American Institute for Architects. Before joining CSW, Jenny was a postsecondary and workforce development researcher with the American Institutes for Research (AIR), an international behavioral and social science organization. She designed and led qualitative studies of transfer and career pathways, academic advising, adults returning to college, and collective impact in education for major organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Institute for Educational Sciences, and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. Jenny received her Ph.D. and master’s degree in higher education from the University of Virginia’s School of Education & Human Development and her bachelor’s degree in Government from the University of Virginia.

Bethany Duyser, DNP, RN, AGPCNP
Assistant Director, IMPART Alliance

Bethany Duyser, NP is the assistant director at IMPART Alliance, a position she’s held since 2023. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from the College of Nursing at Michigan State University in 2022. In addition to her DNP, Duyser holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Illinois Chicago. Duyser started with IMPART Alliance as a graduate student in 2021. Since joining, she has led efforts to educate and train direct-care workers. Her expertise spans numerous settings, including time spent as a nurse practitioner where she provided long-term care for older adults.

Description: Living Well with Dementia is a powerful presentation that challenges the stigma and misconceptions surrounding dementia by sharing the real-life stories of people who are living fully and meaningfully with the diagnosis. Through firsthand insights from individuals of different ages and backgrounds who are living with various types of dementia, you’ll hear how they continue to pursue passions, stay active, engage in community, and find joy in everyday life. Rather than viewing dementia as the end of life, these voices reveal it as a change—one that, with support, adaptation, and purpose, can still lead to a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Speaker Information

Brenda Roberts, MA
Executive Director, National Council of Dementia Minds

Brenda Roberts is a catalyst for change in the world of dementia. She leads the National Council of Dementia Minds, the first national nonprofit founded and governed by persons living with dementia. Brenda brings a rare blend of vision, conviction, and deep compassion, centering dignity, purpose, and lived experience in all she does.

She holds a Certificate in Advanced Clinical Dementia Practices from the University of Michigan, a Master’s in Education Administration and Community Leadership from Central Michigan University, and a Bachelor’s in Sociology from Alma College, along with multiple certifications in dementia care, education, and engagement.

After her husband, Mark, was diagnosed with young-onset dementia in 2014, they chose to live fully—and sparked a national movement. Brenda brings clarity, compassion, and a no-nonsense warmth to every conversation. She will be joined by a panel of persons living with dementia, who are the heart of this groundbreaking work, offering real-world insight, challenging outdated assumptions, and creating space for powerful dialogue about what it truly means to live well with dementia.

Panel of Persons Living with Dementia
Active members of the National Council of Dementia Minds

Description: Attendees can expect to learn real-life practical strategies to care for and meet their own needs, with an emphasis on the emotional self. The presentation will teach how to differentiate between day-to-day stress, overwhelm, and more serious mental health concerns, and when to seek professional support. Additional resources will be provided.

Speaker Information

Anne Farrell, LMSW, C-DBT
Psychotherapist, Wellspring Connection

Anne is a licensed mental health therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Motivational Interviewing. She has over 18 years of behavioral/mental health experience, working in various roles and settings including direct care, case management, therapy, supervisory and director roles. Anne strongly believes and works from a strengths-based approach which for her means, using the inherent strengths of a person or family and then building on each and every one of those strengths. She embraces her role and responsibilities as a clinician and is immensely rewarded each time she has helped to change a life for the better.

Description: Join us for an introduction to the Working with People and Train the Trainer initiative—an empowering, grant-funded opportunity from IMPART Alliance and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Rooted in the philosophy of Gentle Teaching, this initiative is designed to cultivate a Culture of Gentleness across caregiving organizations, enhancing relationships between Direct Care Workers (DCWs), trainers, and those they support.

• This session will provide a high-level look at:
• The purpose and structure of the Working with People 2-day training, including its focus on relationship-building, trauma-informed care, and the Four Tools of Gentle Teaching.
• The pathway to becoming a Trained Trainer, with emphasis on facilitation skills, community-building, and continued learning.
• Key outcomes and activities from both training days, including emotional safety, empathy, structure, transitions, and personal growth.
• How these trainings can immediately impact your work and strengthen your organization’s caregiving culture.

Whether you’re exploring the training for yourself, your team, or your organization, this overview will help you understand the journey, the benefits, and how to get started—at no cost to you!

Speaker Information

Shane Potis, BSW
Synchronous/Live Training Development Lead, Easterseals MORC

Shane designs, develops, and delivers a broad range of live, instructor-led courses for professionals in Health and Human Services, including Direct Support Professionals, Licensed Social Workers & Clinicians, and Educators. With more than 15 years of experience across human service fields, his background includes work as a Direct Support Professional, targeted case manager for adults with IDD, and child welfare/foster care licensing. Shane joined Easterseals MORC in 2019 and is also a certified e-learning instructional designer.

Zach Cardinell
Synchronous/Live Training Development Specialist, Easterseals MORC

Zach began his career as a Direct Care Worker in 2006 and has since become a strong advocate for disability rights, inclusion, and DCW rights. At Easterseals MORC, he trains Direct Care Workers on topics related to a Culture of Gentleness. Beyond his professional role, Zach has served on numerous committees and boards, including the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD), The Fowler Center, New Gateways, and The Arc of Michigan. He currently serves as Secretary of the Board for New Gateways and Vice President of the Board for The Arc of Michigan.

Carolynne VanderVeen, LMSW
Clinical Supervisor, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Behavioral Health, Easterseals MORC

Carolynne has nine years of experience at Easterseals MORC, where she leads with compassion and a commitment to trauma-informed, person-centered care. A Licensed Master Social Worker, she is deeply passionate about fostering a Culture of Gentleness and advocates for dignity, respect, and meaningful connection in behavioral health services.

Ed Kiefer, LBSW
Director of Learning & Development, Easterseals MORC

Ed began his career as a Direct Support Professional in 1995 and joined MORC as a Social Worker/Clinician in 2003. He transitioned to training leadership in 2009 during the statewide closure of Michigan’s last public institution for people with intellectual disabilities, helping to create Cultures of Gentleness in agencies across the state. Now Director of Learning & Development, Ed has led innovations in digital training, launched Easterseals MORC’s Educational Center, and spearheaded the IMPART-supported Working with People Train the Trainer initiative. He also serves as co-president of Leadership Oakland’s Class of 35. Outside of work, Ed enjoys playing guitar, cycling, mountain biking, and outdoor cooking.

Stella Cowan, M.Ed.
Senior Trainer, Easterseals MORC

Stella designs and delivers virtual courses for Easterseals MORC, including Working with People and Leading in a Culture of Gentleness. With more than 20 years of experience in training and organizational effectiveness, her expertise includes diversity and inclusion, management curriculum design, and employee development. She has also taught management and organizational behavior courses as an adjunct instructor for more than a decade at institutions including Spring Arbor University, Siena Heights University, Baker College, and Henry Ford College. Stella holds a master’s degree in education from Wayne State University.

Description: IMPART Alliance has partnered with the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce (CSW) and others to develop a series of competency-based direct care worker (DCW) certifications and build a sustainable model for their administration. This work began with a comprehensive job task analysis to define the full range of tasks, responsibilities, and competencies required of DCWs. Central to this process are DCWs themselves, who serve as subject matter experts and ensure the work reflects real-world practice. The resulting blueprint lays the groundwork for industry-recognized credentials that affirm DCWs as skilled professionals. In this session, attendees will learn about the statewide initiative to support DCWs, the credential development process, the important role DCWs are playing in credential development, and the next steps in the process.

Speaker Information

Jennifer Poole, PhD
Senior Policy Associate, Corporation for a Skilled Workforce (CSW)

Jenny Poole is a Senior Policy Associate with the Competencies & Credentials team, focused on dramatically expanding the use of competencies and non-degree credentials within learning and talent management systems to increase economic mobility for low-wage workers and close racial disparity gaps. Jenny has over 12 years of experience managing large, complex projects, including professional development programs for non-profit organizations like the American Institutes for Research (AIR), the University of Virginia, the U.S. Green Building Council, and the American Institute for Architects. Before joining CSW, Jenny was a postsecondary and workforce development researcher with the American Institutes for Research (AIR), an international behavioral and social science organization. She designed and led qualitative studies of transfer and career pathways, academic advising, adults returning to college, and collective impact in education for major organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Institute for Educational Sciences, and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. Jenny received her Ph.D. and master’s degree in higher education from the University of Virginia’s School of Education & Human Development and her bachelor’s degree in Government from the University of Virginia.

Description: When supporting older adults, it is important to know the unique care needs of this population. Generational gaps are real. What might be funny or playful for a younger crowd could be insulting or offensive to an older crowd. Our histories and experiences shape the way we look at the world around us. Being sensitive to the historical experiences of our Golden Generation can guide and direct our care.

In this presentation, we will explore the trends of our current Golden Generation as it relates to daily activities, personal care habits, and trauma experiences. In addition to life experiences, we are also navigating aging medical complexities that make caregiving feel like an ever moving target. So, come and learn about our aging adults and how we can best connect and provide “Gold” standard care for our Golden Generation.

Speaker Information

Jen Haak, LBSW
Behavioral Health and Dementia Specialist, Life Circles PACE

Jen Haak is a Licensed Bachelor Level Social Worker who has been actively supporting others for the past 24 years. Currently, she works at Life Circles – PACE (Program for the All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly) as a behavioral health and dementia specialist. Jen provides dementia education and care strategies to participant families and the community. She works with the Crisis Intervention Team in Muskegon County as a trainer providing education about supporting older adults in crisis and as a role player to help participants practice the skills taught. Jen co-facilitates a virtual educational group for PACE care partners in the Muskegon and Holland areas. Her work experience also includes assisting those with pervasive and chronic mental illness, as well as people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. She is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), leading groups to regulate strong emotions, improve interpersonal effectiveness and activate distress tolerance skills during times of crisis.

Description: This presentation will be co-facilitated by Robin Maloney, BA/SW, ACC, and Susan Rogers, LMSW, ACSW. Attendees will learn the following objectives: Identifying Emotions, Emotional Agility, Coping with Emotions, Compassion Fatigue, Direct Care Workers and Family Caregivers Contrast Attachment, Unique Roles, Wellness Principles and Strategies for Self-Care, Meditation and Mindfulness, Sleep/Recovery, Gratitude, Self-Compassion, and Optional: Nutrition and Physical Activity.

Speaker Information

Robin Maloney, BA/SW, ACC
Caregiver Coach, ROMA Consulting LLC

Robin Maloney is the owner of ROMA Consulting LLC in Clarkston and a parent caregiver of an adult son with disabilities. As a licensed social worker with a BA in Psychology, Robin built a professional career in university research, community mental health, medical social work, and nonprofit management. Since becoming a professionally trained and certified coach, Robin’s practice combines both her professional and lived experiences in order to serve the families and caregivers of adults with disabilities, supporting them in establishing balance with their multiple responsibilities and their personal needs.

Susan Rogers, LMSW, ACSW
Founder and Director of Parare Counseling and Consulting PLC

Susan H. Rogers, LMSW, ACSW, is the Director of Parare Counseling and Consulting PLC. She is a Michigan licensed master social worker with more than 25 years of experience in special education working with children and adolescents who have disabilities. This experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults, in individual, family, small and large group and experiential learning settings. Susan is a recognized leader in educating special needs adolescents and families in healthy relationships and sexuality. She is a facilitator for the Elevatus Training, a nationally recognized and trauma-informed curriculum on sexuality for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Additionally, Susan has developed innovative programs and oral presentations relating to communication and relationships. Susan is skilled at team building, conflict resolution, and developing positive group dynamics.

Description: Strong, interdependent teams do not simply happen by putting a group of people together. Strong, interdependent teams are built on trust. This training threads together tenants of leading with emotional intelligence with the anatomy of trust. The participant will walk away knowing the 7 elements of trust, how they directly correlate to building an ardent team, and how strong teams directly and positively impact the people they serve/support.

Speaker Information

Deirdre Mercer, BS, LBSW, QIDP
Director of Training, Community Living Services

Deirdre Mercer has over 30 years of experience providing support in the mental health sector. Deirdre started her career in direct care and identifies as a caregiver first. She has served others in the roles of Job Developer, Vocational Specialist, Support Coordinator, Utilization Analyst, Senior Trainer and Self Determination Specialist and Chief Operating Officer. Deirdre also has lived experience as a parent to a neuro diverse child and as a caregiver to her aging parents. With this extensive history of support, she has learned a thousand lessons from her thousands of mistakes. Deirdre is passionate about sharing real stories that weave together the ebbs of sorrow and joy that comes along with providing support to others. Today, Deirdre is the Director of Training for Community Living Services, a community-based organization serving counties across the state of Michigan and also provides training and consulting to organizations across North America.

Description: Every direct care shift holds the potential to be a positive, fulfilling experience—for both the caregiver and the individuals they support. This session is designed to equip direct care workers with simple, practical strategies to set themselves and their teams up for success each day. Drawing on the principles of Gentle Teaching, participants will explore how to create calm, connected environments, structure their shifts intentionally, and approach tricky situations with confidence and compassion. Through real-world examples, reflection, and interactive tools, this session will help attendees: Start and end shifts with purpose, Build trust-centered routines, Handle challenges without escalating, and Support one another as a unified team. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned caregiver, you’ll walk away with tools that make caregiving more sustainable, collaborative, and joyful. Let’s make every day at work not just manageable—but meaningful.

Speaker Information

Meaghan Hall
Residential Program Director, Transition Coordinator, Progressive Lifestyles, Inc.

Meaghan Hall leads a fantastic team of home managers and caregivers in providing excellent and empowering care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Progressive Lifestyles. She excels at coming alongside her team members to support and keep learning and growing together.

Callen Fillio
Residential Program Director, Progressive Lifestyles, Inc.

Callen brings an incredible amount of energy and experience to her role as a Residential Program Director at Progressive Lifestyles. She is a huge supporter and mentor for her team members.

Jennifer Bohne, MS, MBA, LPC, NCC
Executive Director, CEO, Progressive Lifestyles

Jennifer is incredibly proud to be nearing her 7 year anniversary supporting Progressive Lifestyles as Executive Director and CEO. She has spent the past 25 years serving in various roles in advocacy, supports coordination, needs assessment, behavior support, and counseling. Jennifer began her career as a caregiver and that is where her heart will always remain.

Description: Far too often “death and dying” are topics we have learned to avoid. Understandingly, death and dying can prompt feelings of discomfort, sadness, and loss. What if we planned for death just as intentionally as we plan for a birth. When we are expecting a baby, we read books like, “Know What to Expect, When Expecting” but rarely do we prep ourselves for the body’s physical and emotional responses to dying. During this presentation, we will explore the different levels of acceptance a person may experience as they enter the end-of-life phase, learn how to recognize terminal restlessness/delirium, and have some general awareness for the body’s natural shutting down process. End-of-life care is sacred space and for those interested in learning more about the caregiver role please join us for a respectful look at end-of-life care.

Speaker Information

Jen Haak, LBSW
Behavioral Health and Dementia Specialist, Life Circles PACE

Jen Haak is a Licensed Bachelor Level Social Worker who has been actively supporting others for the past 24 years. Currently, she works at Life Circles – PACE (Program for the All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly) as a behavioral health and dementia specialist. Jen provides dementia education and care strategies to participant families and the community. She works with the Crisis Intervention Team in Muskegon County as a trainer providing education about supporting older adults in crisis and as a role player to help participants practice the skills taught. Jen co-facilitates a virtual educational group for PACE care partners in the Muskegon and Holland areas. Her work experience also includes assisting those with pervasive and chronic mental illness, as well as people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. She is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), leading groups to regulate strong emotions, improve interpersonal effectiveness and activate distress tolerance skills during times of crisis.

Description: Join the IMPART Alliance communications team to learn how, with the insight and lived experience of more than 50 direct care workforce members across Michigan, we developed a multifaceted statewide marketing campaign to elevate awareness, spark support, and drive change for direct care workers. The title of this session, “Why Should You Care?” is the question behind our campaign. It speaks to both why someone should consider a career in direct care and why all of us, whether we’re part of the workforce or not, have a role to play in uplifting and supporting direct care professionals. This campaign strategy was rooted in more than just messaging. It was designed to promote real action with each piece of the campaign developed to attract new talent, empower existing workers, and engage the broader community, including those receiving supports and services, their families and loved ones, employers, and policy advocates. We will walk through the campaign’s development process, from listening sessions and interviews with direct care workers to the creation of strategy, messaging, and materials. Along the way, we’ll dig into the key themes that emerged from the people doing this work every day and show how their stories and insights guided our direction. We will also share how accessibility and inclusion remained at the center of our work to ensure that materials resonate with the wide range of people who make up or are supported by direct care workers. Lastly, we will close the breakout session, highlighting how this work is being carried forward by a growing network of partners across the state who share this mission with IMPART Alliance. Together, we are building momentum toward a stronger, more sustainable future for direct care in Michigan. A future that values and supports both those who provide care and those who depend on it.

Speaker Information

Tracy Anderson, M.A.
Communications Director, IMPART Alliance

With nearly 20 years of professional communications experience, Tracy Anderson is an award-winning journalist, university teacher and author who is passionate about journalism and staying on top of digital media trends. Tracy started her writing career covering the police beat and general news at the Lansing State Journal. She then transitioned into freelance writing and full-time work in marketing and public relations, gaining experience in the nonprofit, government and higher education sectors. She has held communications manager and director-level roles at Michigan State University, marrying her love for storytelling and branding at a Big Ten university. As communications director for IMPART Alliance, Tracy channels her passion for advocacy and storytelling into promoting the vital work of the Direct Care Workforce. With a background in journalism, Tracy is committed to amplifying voices often overlooked in the healthcare sector. Her expertise in crafting impactful stories drives IMPART Alliance’s marketing and communications strategies, ensuring that the essential contributions of Direct Care Workers are recognized and valued.

Mariana Bittencourt
Communications Coordinator, IMPART Alliance

With a dynamic background in journalism, marketing, graphic design, and digital media strategy, Mariana Bittencourt is a communications professional whose work spans higher education, nonprofits, and advocacy-centered organizations. Mariana began her career in student leadership and digital content development at Michigan State University (MSU), where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Journalism with a concentration in Media Design and is currently pursuing a master’s in Marketing Research and Analytics. She quickly established herself as a creative strategist, using data-driven insights and storytelling to elevate digital engagement across multiple university departments and nonprofit initiatives. As a Communications Coordinator at MSU’s IMPART Alliance, Mariana blends creative design with purpose-driven messaging to support the direct care workforce development in Michigan. Deeply committed to education and mentorship, Mariana has contributed to multidisciplinary research initiatives at MSU where she developed and led strategic media campaigns to increase public engagement, recruit participants, and translate complex research into accessible, compelling narratives.

Description: This panel presentation will explore the intersection of workforce development, creative expression, mental health, and public awareness through the lens of A Caregiver’s Butterfly Garden—a statewide art and advocacy initiative launched by IMPART Alliance. Through a moderated discussion with project leaders and direct care workers, attendees will gain insight into how art and storytelling are helping to elevate, recruit, and retain Michigan’s essential Direct Care Workforce (DCW). The panel offers a real-world, replicable model for workforce recognition and engagement, showcases an interdisciplinary approach involving arts, healthcare, strategy, and communications, and provides an emotional, inspiring experience that validates the caregiving profession.

Speaker Information

Clare Luz, PhD
Executive Director, MSU IMPART Alliance

Dr. Luz is Associate Professor, Family and Community Medicine, MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, and founding director of both MSU AgeAlive and IMPART Alliance. She is a gerontologist whose research focuses on quality of life for vulnerable older adults, long-term care health services, particularly the eldercare workforce shortage, and the intersection of aging, health, and the arts. AgeAlive is dedicated to elevating aging-related research, teaching, and outreach, in partnership with community, to promote wellbeing for all people of all ages and abilities. IMPART Alliance is an organization dedicated to helping Michigan build an infrastructure that expands and supports direct care workers (DCW). She Co-chairs both the statewide MDHHS DCW Advisory committee and the statewide Michigan DCW Coalition comprised of employers, DCWs, clients and other stakeholders who are jointly generating innovative, feasible, affordable strategies to tackle the critical DCW shortage.

Zahrah Resh
Contemporary Artist, Artist In Residence, MSU IMPART Alliance

Zahrah Resh is the artist in residence at IMPART Alliance. Her responsibilities include helping promote community outreach, assisting with presentations, workshops and anything related to art activity. Resh is a Michigan State University alumna of the Broad School of Business. Initially while in school, Resh was influenced to follow a traditional path in business or medicine. However, she realized that her future was as an artist. Despite starting later in life, Resh has experience in multiple disciplines including paint, collages and sculptures. As the artist in residence at IMPART Alliance, Resh hopes to use art to both promote the organizations as well as help people in the process. She believes that art is for everybody and has significant health benefits including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood through art therapy, increased self-esteem and even enhanced memory.

Tracy Anderson
Communications Director, MSU IMPART Alliance

With nearly 20 years of professional communications experience, Tracy Anderson is an award-winning journalist, university teacher and author who is passionate about journalism and staying on top of digital media trends. Tracy started her writing career covering the police beat and general news at the Lansing State Journal. She then transitioned into freelance writing and full-time work in marketing and public relations, gaining experience in the nonprofit, government and higher education sectors. She has held communications manager and director-level roles at Michigan State University, marrying her love for storytelling and branding at a Big Ten university. As communications director for IMPART Alliance, Tracy channels her passion for advocacy and storytelling into promoting the vital work of the Direct Care Workforce. With a background in journalism, Tracy is committed to amplifying voices often overlooked in the healthcare sector.

Rochelle Berry, MBA
Project Manager, A Caregiver’s Butterfly Garden, MSU IMPART Alliance (Panel Moderator)

Rochelle Berry is a strategist and storyteller with a passion for honoring and elevating the essential work of direct care workers. As the creative lead and project manager behind A Caregiver’s Butterfly Garden—an initiative of MSU’s IMPART Alliance—Rochelle oversees statewide installations that blend art, community engagement, and recruitment efforts to spotlight the value of Michigan’s direct care workforce. With a background in psychology, design, and business, Rochelle brings a unique cross-disciplinary approach to her work, bridging mental health, advocacy, and visual storytelling to amplify the voices of those who care for others. Her leadership in marketing, public relations, and event strategy continues to position IMPART Alliance as a statewide leader in the movement to uplift and professionalize caregiving.

Description: This session will highlight the unified statewide policy and action plan developed to address Michigan’s Direct Care Workforce (DCW) shortage. Attendees will learn why the recommendations were created by the MDHHS DCW Advisory Committee/State Policy Recommendations Workgroup and how they are serving as a road map for implementation. The plan identifies four key categories of action—leadership, wages and benefits, professionalism, and socio-cultural change—that must be advanced simultaneously to build and sustain Michigan’s direct care workforce.

Speaker Information

Lauren Swanson-Aprill, MA
Direct Care Workforce Specialist & Grant Manager, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Aging, Community Living, and Supports

Since 2002, Lauren Swanson-Aprill has worked as a grant manager and direct care workforce specialist for the Michigan State Unit on Aging, now part of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Bureau of Aging, Community Living, and Supports (ACLS). She has written and implemented numerous grants in collaboration with internal and external partners to create evidence-based direct care worker training curricula and programs.

Collaboration is at the core of her work, including partnerships with IMPART Alliance at Michigan State University, DCWs, lead trainers, providers, persons with lived experience, and statewide stakeholders to further develop Michigan’s direct care training infrastructure. Swanson-Aprill currently co-leads the MDHHS/ACLS Bureau Direct Care Workforce Advisory Committee, which advises the department on workforce issues, policies, and grants. Her pronouns are she/her/hers.

Learn more about MDHHS ACLS →

Clare Luz, PhD
Executive Director, MSU IMPART Alliance

Dr. Luz is Associate Professor, Family and Community Medicine, MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, and founding director of both MSU AgeAlive and IMPART Alliance. She is a gerontologist whose research focuses on quality of life for vulnerable older adults, long-term care health services, particularly the eldercare workforce shortage, and the intersection of aging, health, and the arts. AgeAlive is dedicated to elevating aging-related research, teaching, and outreach, in partnership with community, to promote wellbeing for all people of all ages and abilities. IMPART Alliance is an organization dedicated to helping Michigan build an infrastructure that expands and supports direct care workers (DCW). She co-chairs both the statewide MDHHS DCW Advisory Committee and the statewide Michigan DCW Coalition, comprised of employers, DCWs, clients and other stakeholders who are jointly generating innovative, feasible, and affordable strategies to tackle the critical DCW shortage.

Description: Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are living longer than ever, and with longer life comes an increased risk of dementia. This session will provide an overview of the risk factors for dementia in this population, highlight the unique signs and symptoms, and explore best practices for modifying support to meet changing abilities.

Speaker Information

Kristi Davis
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist & Program Manager, Alzheimer’s Association – Michigan Chapter

Kristi Davis is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and Program Manager at the Alzheimer’s Association – Michigan Chapter. For more than nine years, she has served in a role dedicated exclusively to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who are also living with dementia. A frequent presenter on dementia and IDD, Kristi brings expertise in both direct support and community education.

Prior to joining the Alzheimer’s Association, she spent 15 years as the recreation manager for a community-based residential and support program, where she designed and implemented activity programming for people with IDD, including individuals with Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease.

Description: This presentation will discuss the definitions of compassion fatigue and burnout, teach participants how to recognize signs that they may be experiencing or moving toward either condition, and provide practical tips and strategies to help avoid or reduce symptoms. Attendees will leave with tools to improve their wellbeing and maintain resilience while supporting others.

Speaker Information

Carolynne VanderVeen, LMSW, QIDP, QMHP, CMHP
Clinical Supervisor, IDD Behavioral Health, Easterseals MORC

Carolynne VanderVeen is a LMSW who has worked with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) for almost nine years. Prior to that, she had the privilege of growing up surrounded by this population through family friends and classmates with IDD. She is also the proud mom of an awesome autistic son.

Carolynne has worked as a supports coordinator, therapist, and behaviorist, and now serves as a clinical supervisor. She is a passionate advocate for individuals with IDD and for utilizing a Culture of Gentleness to guide care and support.

Description: Direct care workers are the heart of assisted living, and your voice, actions, and compassion shape the resident experience every day. This uplifting, interactive session offers an overview of MALA’s Supervisor Training Series, focusing on how every team member can benefit from leadership principles rooted in empathy, communication, and consistency.

Attendees will explore how understanding a Philosophy of Care—not just tasks—can transform approaches to support, teamwork, and resident relationships. Participants will leave with tools, stories, and resources that demonstrate how even small leadership actions can create big changes in care outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

• What “Philosophy of Care” means—and why it matters in every role

• Simple leadership strategies DCWs can use daily

• How MALA’s free Supervisor Training supports growth and teamwork

• Real-life stories of how frontline workers are leading from within

This session is designed to be encouraging, engaging, and supportive, with humor, honesty, and inspiration throughout.

Speaker Information

Erin Wallace
Director of Quality Assurance and Education, Michigan Assisted Living Association

Erin M. Wallace is a dedicated and compassionate leader with over two decades of experience in program development, education, and supportive services within aging and disability care. With a background in interdisciplinary health services and gerontology, she has championed person-centered approaches, empowered direct care staff, and crafted educational resources that inspire confidence and compassion in caregiving settings.

Since 2024, Erin has served as the Director of Quality Assurance and Education at MALA. She finds joy in teaching, mentoring, and creating environments where staff feel seen, supported, and equipped to deliver high-quality, dignified care. Throughout her career—whether managing large-scale programs, developing dementia-specific curricula, or providing hands-on training—she has remained grounded in the belief that direct care staff are the heart of every successful service model.

John Williams
Board President, Michigan Assisted Living Association

John Williams has over 37 years of experience in human services, including as Executive Director of Progressive, a Michigan nonprofit supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across community settings. For the past 25 years, he has also worked as a consultant and trainer in the “Culture of Gentleness” philosophy of care.

Throughout his career, John has prioritized the training and recognition of direct care staff. He currently serves on the board of a nonprofit advocating for service providers supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities, mental illness, substance use disorders, traumatic brain injuries, and physical disabilities, while volunteering and consulting with long-term care providers on training, human resources, and business operations.

Description: Direct care workers, the backbone of our long-term care system, face significant challenges, including high turnover, low wages, and limited career opportunities, which threaten access to quality care for older adults and people with disabilities. States play a major role in addressing these issues, and many are developing comprehensive approaches that include training, credentialing, wage improvements, and career pathway opportunities.

This session will begin with a concise overview of the latest national workforce data, including metrics on turnover and job quality. It will examine how a universal direct care workforce model—incorporating core competencies, stackable credentials, and advanced roles—supports workforce retention, improves job quality, and enhances care outcomes. The discussion will also highlight how states beyond Michigan are investing in integrated models and building the infrastructure needed to strengthen the workforce, enhance care coordination, and address critical social determinants of health through long-term supports and services.

Speaker Information

Emily Dieppa Colo
Vice President of Workforce Innovations, PHI

Residing in Metro Detroit, Emily Dieppa Colo has worked at the forefront of direct care workforce development for 15 years. As PHI’s Vice President of Workforce Innovations, she leads a team of experts designing and implementing evidence-informed interventions to improve job quality and address systemic inequity for direct care workers.

Emily has led several high-impact programs at PHI, including entry-level, specialty, and advanced training for diverse workers using trauma-informed and culturally competent approaches. She works closely with long-term care employers to integrate the PHI Coach Approach® and other recruitment and retention strategies, and has developed advanced role models that accelerate career mobility while improving outcomes for older adults and people with disabilities.

Prior to PHI, Emily created and led a home care training program for incumbent workers in Detroit and served as chief of staff for a healthcare workforce organization, gaining extensive experience in organizational development and culture change. She holds an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction – Adult Education from Louisiana State University and a BA in Political Science from the University of Arizona, and is an Economic Opportunities Fellow through the Aspen Institute’s Detroit Workforce Systems Leadership Development Academy.

Jeannine LaPrad
Managing Director of Strategic Initiatives, PHI

Jeannine LaPrad leads PHI’s strategic initiatives, which integrate research and evaluation, workforce innovation, policy advocacy, and public education to strengthen the direct care workforce. She oversees efforts to establish a universal training and credentialing system, supporting professional recognition, workforce retention, and quality care for older adults and people with disabilities.

With decades of leadership experience across nonprofit, government, education, and business sectors, Jeannine has shaped employment and education policy to improve job quality, economic mobility, and equity for workers. Prior to PHI, she served as Managing Director of Policy & Research for the National Skills Coalition and spent 23 years with the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce, including roles as President & CEO and Senior Fellow.

Jeannine holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational psychology and communications and a master’s degree in higher education policy from the University of Michigan. She is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Description: From the perspective of a daughter, this presentation shares a personal journey of caring for aging parents—from vibrant independence to the tender final stages of palliative and hospice care. It is a tribute to the Direct Care Workers whose compassion, strength, and presence became a lifeline for the family.

Attendees will gain insight into the quiet heroism of caregivers—their ability to bring dignity to daily routines, comfort in moments of vulnerability, and peace in times of uncertainty. Through heartfelt stories and reflections, this session celebrates the invaluable role Direct Care Workers play in the lives of those they support and the families who walk alongside them. It is a message of deep gratitude, recognition, and a call to uplift and support those who give so much of themselves to others.

Speaker Information

Deirdre Mercer, BS Special Education, LBSW, QIDP
Director of Training, Community Living Services

Deirdre Mercer brings over 25 years of experience in the mental health and human services sector, with a career rooted in direct care and a lifelong commitment to cultivating cultures of gentleness. She currently serves as the Director of Training for Community Living Services, a Michigan-based organization dedicated to person-centered support across multiple counties.

Deirdre began her journey as a Direct Care Worker and has held diverse roles including Job Developer, Vocational Specialist, Support Coordinator, Utilization Analyst, Senior Trainer, Self-Determination Specialist, and Chief Operating Officer. Her leadership is shaped by real stories, hard-earned lessons, and a deep belief in the transformative power of safe and valuing relationships.

Her most profound insights come from her personal experience as a caregiver to her parents during their final stages of life. Walking alongside them from independent living through palliative and hospice care, she witnessed firsthand the irreplaceable role Direct Care Workers play in preserving dignity, offering comfort, and supporting families through life’s most tender transitions. Deirdre is passionate about honoring caregivers and sharing the emotional truths of support work—where sorrow and joy intertwine, and where the smallest acts of kindness leave the deepest impact.

Description: This presentation explores the evolution of how society has perceived people with mental illness and disabilities, beginning with trephination and Hippocrates and moving through the mismanagement of state-run institutions. Attendees will gain context for the origins of stereotypes and the stigma surrounding mental health, while reflecting on both historical missteps and the occasional breakthroughs that shaped modern care.

Speaker Information

Amanda Ritchie
Training Specialist, Northern Lakes Community Mental Health Authority

Hello! My name is Amanda Ritchie, and I’m the Training Specialist at Northern Lakes Community Mental Health Authority. I’ve spent the last 20 years in hands-on roles supporting folks with mental illness and developmental disabilities. Six of those years were spent managing a contracted Specialized Residential home and learning to navigate the community mental healthcare system—since then, I’ve moved to the “mothership.”

It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m honored to use my experience and knowledge to help educate caregivers. I’ll never forget being a 20-something in a class of much “adultier” adults, clutching my coffee like a lifeline, inspired by a trainer who taught me to be kind and ask questions. Now, two decades later, I’m at the front of the room—still clutching my coffee, still looking for an adultier adult, but hoping to pay that experience forward.

I have the privilege of working with some of the most amazing humans as they take on one of the most undervalued jobs out there. Direct care providers aren’t just caregivers; they’re cooks, housekeepers, nurses, aides, nutritionists, first responders, activity coordinators, and emotional support humans—all rolled into one. My goal is to help change that narrative and provide a little extra knowledge to the next generation of caregivers.

Outside of work, I’m a mom of two little Martians who feature in way too many anecdotes (sorry coworkers), a history enthusiast, devoted crafter, occasional gamer, and proud nerd. Work or play, I try to show up with energy, enthusiasm, and maybe some snacks.

Description: We all know the Golden Rule is to treat others like you’d want to be treated. In this session, attendees will reflect on the importance of seeing the people we serve as individuals—not just as tasks to be completed. Often, daily routines can turn into a checklist: Laundry – check…Meds – check…Sweep – check…Talk to Bob – check. This session reminds caregivers that they are in someone’s home and that genuine human connection matters as much as completing tasks.

Speaker Information

Mickey Bauchan
Assistant Director, Michigan Community Services, Inc

Mickey Bauchan has over 30 years of experience in the field. His career began alongside his wife at a day program and has included work in AFC homes and independent living programs. He has held management roles for many years and currently oversees AFC homes, a vocational program, two senior programs, and two independent living programs.

Description: Michigan is taking the lead on supporting the direct care workforce by adhering to a new model for change: the Integrated Model for Personal Assistance, Research and Training. One critical component of this Model is the professionalization of the direct care workforce, which includes all the hallmarks of any profession: competency, professional, and ethical standards, training guidelines, credentials, career pathways, continuing education, and networking opportunities.  These features are all meant to lead to greater economic security and respect for DCWs through having a recognized professional identity.

The Model maintains that career success is not contingent on training alone or even getting a decent job. There are many DCWs who have had both and still drop out of this work that they love, for multiple reasons. The IMPART Career Success Model offers DCWs an opportunity to explore direct care work as a profession, to determine what type of DCW they want to be, and what they need to do to make their goals a reality. It helps individuals identify barriers to success and how to remove these barriers. This novel and exciting resource is currently in development and will soon be ready for piloting with DCWs and DCW Employers who can take part in shaping this program from the ground up so that it truly benefits both. Participants in this session will learn about the Model, its importance to recruitment and retention goals, personal career goals, and to the state in ensuring that Michigan has enough qualified DCWs who love and want to advance their careers. They will learn what steps they can take to take charge of their own careers and set themselves up for lifelong success.

Speaker Information

Clare Luz, PhD
Executive Director, MSU IMPART Alliance

Dr. Luz is Associate Professor, Family and Community Medicine, MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, and founding director of both MSU AgeAlive and IMPART Alliance. She is a gerontologist whose research focuses on quality of life for vulnerable older adults, long-term care health services, particularly the eldercare workforce shortage, and the intersection of aging, health, and the arts. AgeAlive is dedicated to elevating aging-related research, teaching, and outreach, in partnership with community, to promote wellbeing for all people of all ages and abilities. IMPART Alliance is an organization dedicated to helping Michigan build an infrastructure that expands and supports direct care workers (DCW). She Co-chairs both the statewide MDHHS DCW Advisory committee and the statewide Michigan DCW Coalition comprised of employers, DCWs, clients and other stakeholders who are jointly generating innovative, feasible, affordable strategies to tackle the critical DCW shortage.

Description: In this interactive workshop, participants will be introduced to A Culture of Gentleness as a practical, relationship-driven approach to person-centered support. Grounded in safety, connection, and presence, this approach invites supporters to slow down, listen deeply, and create space where individuals feel truly seen and valued.

Through stories and reflection, attendees will explore how gentleness isn’t about being soft—it’s about being intentional. The session examines the role of the supporter as a gentle presence who builds relationships that foster trust, growth, and belonging. Participants will leave with practical insights and a renewed sense of how relational practices can transform support, services, and community.

Speaker Information

Sheldon Schwitek
Certified CoG Mentor & Trainer; Co-Founder, Consultant, In the Company of Others

Sheldon Schwitek brings more than 30 years of experience supporting people with disabilities, beginning with the birth of his youngest brother when he was 13. Grounded in Person-Centered Work through long associations with Inclusion Press and the Toronto Summer Institute, Sheldon focuses on encouraging people to “dream bigger” as a pathway to true citizenship. He is passionate about helping people live meaningful lives of contribution in their communities.

In 2011, Sheldon began working with The Center for Positive Living Supports to implement a Culture of Gentleness in Michigan, solidifying his belief that relationships and community connections are fundamental to a safe and happy life. He has served as Executive Director of The Arc Community Advocates and Director of People & Culture at the Eiros Group in New Jersey.

Currently, Sheldon is Co-Founder and consultant for In the Company of Others, working nationally and internationally to weave together Person-Centered work and mentorship as tools to help people realize their full potential as citizens. His key message: all people can lead rich and meaningful lives, and supporting that is our most important work.

Description: The absolute foundation of a Culture of Gentleness is establishing that individuals feel safe and loved/valued. McGee’s “Psychology of Interdependence” emphasizes that equal and mutual relationships are the outcome of Gentle Teaching. This workshop expands on conventional understandings of what it means to be “safe” and “equal and mutual,” applying these principles through structure and transitions to support positive interactions through an autistic lens.

Attendees will have guided opportunities to reflect on their own safe and loved/valued practices. Alex Kimmel shares lived experience insights on executive function and communication, demonstrating best practices for shifting beyond viewing individuals as “care receivers.” Participants will reinforce their understanding of the four pillars, expand their definition of equality, bolster interdependence practices, and share aha-moments and laughs along the way.

Speaker Information

Alexander Kimmel
Certified Peer Mentor; Owner, SelfDeterminator

Alex Kimmel is an experienced trainer, presenter, and owner of SelfDeterminator. He delivers keynote and breakout sessions locally, statewide, nationally, and internationally on topics including Inclusion, Disability Acceptance, Neurodiversity, Culture of Gentleness, Self-Direction, Autism, and Person-Centered thinking.

Alex has been educating students, professionals, congregations, and communities since 2006. His work is recognized with multiple awards, including:

• 2024 Oakland Community Health Network “Stigma Buster” Award

• 2023 Jane Vermeulen Leadership State Award, Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute at Wayne State University

• 2019 Robert Thomas Support Professional Award, The Arc of Oakland County

• 2017 Dan Moran Award, Oakland Community Health Network

He was also the featured presenter for the By, With and For Autistic Adults “LAUNCH You!” Life Leadership course, establishing an autistic-led think tank on self-determination skills and goal attainment. Alex blends his passion for training with travel, visiting national parks and zoos as part of his personal business plan.

Description: This presentation explores leadership styles that are trauma-informed and designed to reduce turnover among direct support professionals (DSPs) working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Topics include vicarious trauma, strategies to reduce compassion fatigue, and practical approaches for trauma-informed leadership that support both staff well-being and organizational resilience.

Speaker Information

Karyn Harvey, Ph.D.
Psychologist, Author, and Consultant, Myoho Supports

Karyn Harvey holds a Ph.D. in Applied Developmental Psychology from the University of Maryland and has worked as a therapist with people with IDD for over 39 years. She is the author of three books in the IDD field, published by NADD and AAIDD, and has contributed chapters and articles to numerous publications.

Currently, Karyn conducts trainings and trains trainers across North America, specializing in trauma-informed approaches for leadership and direct support professionals. Her work emphasizes reducing vicarious trauma, promoting staff well-being, and implementing evidence-based strategies that enhance care outcomes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Description: This presentation explores the vital relationship between caretakers and individuals with disabilities, highlighting how open communication, collaboration, and shared experiences can empower both groups. Attendees will learn strategies for advocacy, supporting care recipients in accessing resources, and creating meaningful change at the state and federal levels. The session emphasizes mutual respect, shared goals, and active engagement, helping caretakers and care recipients unite as a strong collective voice to foster a sustainable, inclusive future.

Speaker Information

Shanta’ Favors
Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2024 | Founder, FAVE (Fortitude Advocates Valiant Everyday)

Shanta’ Favors is a passionate disability rights advocate, devoted wife, and mother from Taylor, Michigan. She is the immediate past Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2024 and first runner-up for Ms. Wheelchair America 2025. Her advocacy focuses on bridging the gap between caretakers and the disability community.

A former Director of Care at a senior living facility, Shanta’ brings both professional expertise and lived experience as a care recipient following a spinal cord injury. She founded FAVE, an organization dedicated to empowerment and support for individuals with disabilities, and actively participates in the Michigan Legislative Disability Caucus and the United Spinal Associates Care Support Working Group.

Shanta’ combines her advocacy, mentorship, and personal experience to guide caretakers and care recipients toward stronger collaboration, inclusive policies, and meaningful community engagement. Her motto: “Roll on purpose, with purpose.”

Description: Direct Care Workers (DCWs) provide essential long-term care and personal assistance, yet many face challenges navigating digital tools, including federally mandated Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) systems. This interactive workshop presents findings from a statewide survey conducted by IMPART Alliance and explores how DCWs use technology, where barriers exist, and how digital literacy impacts care.

Participants will engage with real data, stories, and interactive exercises, reflecting on how to better support DCWs’ digital access, training, and agency. The session emphasizes collaboration, discussion, and hands-on experiences to uncover solutions that enhance both workforce capability and client care.

Core Topics:

• Personal experiences with EVV systems

• Digital literacy skills and training needs

• Barriers DCWs face in navigating technology

• Opportunities for supportive digital tools

Speaker Information

Jara Pallas-Brink
PhD Candidate, Anthropology | Research & Development Lead, IMPART Alliance

Jara designs and supports research and pilot programs that strengthen Michigan’s direct care workforce. With over 10 years in qualitative research, facilitation, and participatory methods, she uses ethnography and storytelling to elevate DCWs’ experiences.

Sharmila Suresh
B.S. Economics | Research Assistant, Research & Development, IMPART Alliance

Sharmila focuses on incentives, decision-making, and economic systems affecting DCWs. Her research examines health economics and workforce sustainability, aiming to support effective care delivery.

Description: Recognizing healthcare needs in individuals with communication or sensory challenges can be complex. These individuals may struggle to express how they feel, making it difficult for caregivers and support staff to detect early signs of serious health concerns.

This session focuses on the Fatal Five—aspiration, constipation, dehydration, seizures, and sepsis—among the most common and preventable causes of morbidity and mortality in congregate care environments. Participants will:

• Gain a deeper understanding of each condition

• Learn how to identify early warning signs

• Explore practical strategies to reduce risk and improve health outcomes through observation and proactive support

Direct care workers will leave equipped with actionable knowledge to enhance safety and wellbeing, and to intervene before conditions become critical.

Speaker Information

Patricia Helton, RN
Training Coordinator | Community Living Services

Patricia brings over 15 years of clinical experience across skilled nursing and outpatient settings, enriched by her perspective as a family caregiver. She specializes in equipping caregivers with practical, evidence-based strategies to provide high-quality, person-centered care. Patricia is known for connecting with learners, inspiring confidence, and fostering a culture of compassion and excellence.

Kayla Frey, RN, BSN
Training Specialist | Community Living Services

Kayla has over 12 years of clinical experience in home care, clinics, and hospitals, with a focus on empowering caregivers who support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). She provides practical education in health and medication management, blending clinical insight with compassion to strengthen caregiver knowledge and improve health outcomes.

Brittany Wilson, QIDP, CMHP
Training Specialist | Community Living Services

Brittany supports caregiver training with a focus on IDD populations. Her expertise helps caregivers build confidence, competence, and readiness to act effectively in health-related situations.

Description: “Possibilities!” is part of the award-winning Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute video project, presenting a vision of how individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities—and their families—can lead lives without barriers and pursue their true goals.

In this session, Alex Kimmel, also known as The SelfDeterminator, shares his mission to help self-advocates, families, professionals, and communities realize the positive impact of living a self-determined life. Attendees will engage with humor, stories, and reflection to update their understanding of neurodiversity, inclusion, acceptance, and self-direction.

Speaker Information

Alexander Kimmel
Certified Peer Mentor; Owner, SelfDeterminator

Alex Kimmel is an experienced trainer, presenter, and owner of SelfDeterminator. He delivers keynote and breakout sessions locally, statewide, nationally, and internationally on topics including Inclusion, Disability Acceptance, Neurodiversity, Culture of Gentleness, Self-Direction, Autism, and Person-Centered thinking.

Alex has been educating students, professionals, congregations, and communities since 2006. His work is recognized with multiple awards, including:

• 2024 Oakland Community Health Network “Stigma Buster” Award

• 2023 Jane Vermeulen Leadership State Award, Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute at Wayne State University

• 2019 Robert Thomas Support Professional Award, The Arc of Oakland County

• 2017 Dan Moran Award, Oakland Community Health Network

He was also the featured presenter for the By, With and For Autistic Adults “LAUNCH You!” Life Leadership course, establishing an autistic-led think tank on self-determination skills and goal attainment. Alex blends his passion for training with travel, visiting national parks and zoos as part of his personal business plan.

Description: People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) experience sexual assault at rates over seven times higher than those without IDD. Yet, discussions around sex, sexuality, and relationships often exclude this population, leaving them more vulnerable.

This session equips Direct Care Workers (DCWs) to confidently engage in conversations about sexuality and relationships with the people they support and their families. Participants will:

• Understand why individuals with IDD are at higher risk of sexual exploitation

• Learn strategies to promote sexual self-advocacy

• Gain knowledge of state resources supporting comprehensive sexuality education

• Build comfort in discussing sex, sexuality, and relationships while fostering safety

The training emphasizes removing barriers to meaningful education and empowering DCWs to create inclusive, informed, and safe spaces for all individuals.

Speakers

Christie Kay, LMSW
Director of Programs & Operations, The Arc of Oakland County

Christie Kay has been working in the IDD field since 2013. With experience as a Support Coordinator, Intake and Eligibility Assessment Coordinator, and Support Coordination/Social Work Supervisor, Christie now leads programs that ensure equal access and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Susan H. Rogers, LMSW, ACSW
Director, Parare Counseling and Consulting, PLC

Susan Rogers brings extensive experience in supporting individuals with developmental, intellectual, and educational disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder. She has developed health and sexuality curricula for students across multiple educational levels, facilitated weekly groups for Project BOLD at Oakland Community College, and is a nationally recognized facilitator for the trauma-informed Elevatus curriculum. Susan is passionate about reducing vulnerability and promoting healthy relationships for people with disabilities.

Description: The Magic of Hope blends world-class magic, mentalism, and comedy with powerful messages about mental health, resilience, and well-being. He shares his personal journey—from being a competitive wrestler and facing injuries, to struggling with identity, mental health challenges, and even a suicide attempt—to highlight the importance of resilience, self-love, and finding hope in difficult times.

Audiences walk away with key takeaways:

• The way we respond to an event is more important than the event itself.
• Anxiety, depression, and stress are not unique—we all face them.
• School and community resources should be used in pursuit of a better future.

Anthony currently visits more than 200 school districts each year, where his engaging and meaningful programs leave a lasting impact.

Speaker Information

Anthony Grupido
Keynote Speaker

Anthony is a keynote speaker who works with schools, organizations, and businesses, teaching about mental health, resiliency, leadership, and connection. He has given TEDx talks, trained Air Force bases, and captivated millions of students with his unique mix of storytelling and magic.

Description: In this highly interactive session, participants will engage in three rounds of guided small-group conversations to reflect on their conference experience, share challenges and solutions, and envision what true empowerment for Direct Care Workers looks like. Together, we’ll “harvest” key insights that can inspire collective action and culture change across the caregiving community.