The East Valley SELPA hosted an Inclusion Summit on May 1, 2024, aiming to ensure quality special education programs. Dr. Patty Metheny led the event, featuring discussions on inclusion and training sessions. The SELPA coordinates services for 8,000 special education students across five districts. Their mission emphasizes respect, integrity, and collaboration. Participants praised the impactful keynote, emphasizing the commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of students.
Mason Branstrator’s journey from paralysis to purpose emphasizes positivity, family support, and a thriving online presence. His podcast appearance with Alycia Anderson showcases his resilience and advocacy for disability rights. Mason’s optimism and determination shine through as he shares his story, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and embracing what cannot be changed. His use of E-assist devices like the Firefly illustrates the possibilities of mobility for wheelchair users.
In Episode 46 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast,” Alycia Anderson interviews Mason Branstrator, a public speaker, content creator, and adaptive athlete. Mason, paralyzed at 17 due to a skiing accident, embraced optimism, gaining a large following inspired by his journey. The Firefly attachment enhanced his mobility, leading him to advocate for accessibility. Key takeaways include redefining disability, parental support, overcoming limitations, and Mason’s message of accepting challenges and realizing potential.
In Episode 45 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Marty’s sister, Peggy Sellery shares her bipolar journey during Mental Health Awareness Month. She discusses overcoming societal stigmas, managing the pendulum swings of bipolar disorder, and her initiative, “Let’s See Love Today,” promoting authentic social connection. Alycia emphasizes empowering self-talk and celebrates Peggy’s vulnerability and resilience. This heartfelt conversation aims to foster understanding and support for mental wellness.
In Episode 45 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast,” Marty’s sister, Peggy Sellery, an MIT and Columbia graduate, shares her journey with bipolar disorder during Mental Health Awareness Month. Growing up with disability in her family shaped her perspective. Peggy discusses embracing her condition, advocating for mental health, and overcoming societal stigmas. She emphasizes community support and offers advice on breaking the mental health stigma. Resources for help are provided. Connect with Peggy for SAT and ACT test preparation services or to explore her personal journey and tutoring philosophy.
Alycia Anderson, a distinguished alumna of California State University, Chico, returned to receive the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Communication and Education. Despite her prior commitments, a separate event was arranged to honor her achievements in diversity, equity, and accessibility. Engaging with students and faculty, Alycia emphasized the importance of inclusive environments, fostering collaborations and initiatives within the university. Her journey from student to advocate exemplifies the transformative power of education and community support, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations.
Kimberly Elliott, founder of belikejosh.org, advocates for dogs with neurological disabilities like her own dog, Josh. Through Be Like Josh, she rescues and educates on disabilities, aiming to create an inclusive society. Kimberly’s work challenges stigmas in veterinary medicine and promotes understanding through school visits. She seeks support to expand her impact. Kimberly’s message: ‘March to the beat of your own drum, embracing freedom and grace.
Episode 44 of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia’ features Kimberly Elliott, founder of the Be Like Josh Foundation. The foundation advocates for dogs with neurological disabilities, inspired by Kimberly’s own dog, Josh. They educate on conditions, rescue unadoptable dogs, and promote inclusivity. Kimberly’s work, highlighted on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, aims to challenge perceptions and create a more accepting society. Her vision for Be Like Josh is to enlighten, educate, and empower.
In this enlightening podcast episode, host Alycia Anderson welcomes Yan Vishnepolsky, an entrepreneur and AI enthusiast diagnosed as neurodiverse. They delve into neurodiversity, its intersection with AI, and Vishnepolsky’s personal journey. Emphasizing the importance of embracing individual strengths, they discuss workplace inclusivity, the benefits of remote work, and the human-centered approach to integrating AI. Vishnepolsky shares insights from his podcast “Human-Centered AI” and advocates for leveraging uniqueness for success.
In Episode 43 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Yan Vishnepolsky discusses the intersection of neurodiversity and AI. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism, Yan highlights how his unique perspective enhances his work in AI and UX design. He emphasizes the importance of embracing differences and shares insights from his podcast, “Human-Centered AI,” aiming to integrate AI advancements with a deep understanding of human needs. Yan’s journey underscores the power of turning “different” into “exceptional.”
