Adi Schaeffer and Kyle W. Beam
The Institute for Human Development at Northern Arizona University hosted the 26th annual Evidence for Success Disability Conference from June 22–24, 2025, at Gila River Resorts and Casinos – Wild Horse Pass in Chandler, Arizona. While rooted in Arizona, the conference drew a diverse group of professionals, educators, advocates, families, and service providers from across the nation.
With record-breaking attendance, this year’s conference brought together over 600 participants for three days of dynamic programming. Featuring 64 educational sessions and over 50 exhibitors, the event offered many opportunities for learning, networking, and professional development. Content strands covered a wide range of topics, including disability-inclusive artificial intelligence (AI), assistive technology, American Indian/Alaska Native vocational rehabilitation, and disability policy and advocacy.
Participants praised the conference for its high-quality, focused sessions, the variety of topics tailored to different interests and professions, and the overall positive atmosphere. Attendees singled out the engaging keynote speakers and the impressive display of assistive technology from vendors, noting the wealth of possibilities it presented. Reflecting this positive experience, 97.8% of survey respondents reported being either highly satisfied or satisfied with the event overall.
Keynote speaker Dr. Lawrence Weru, a biomedical informatics researcher at Harvard Medical School, opened the conference with a powerful presentation titled “Navigating the Opportunities and Challenges for Disability-Inclusive AI.” His talk explored how emerging technologies are reshaping access and equity in the disability community.
Closing out the event, bestselling author Rachel Simon delivered an address titled “Riding Through Life with Cool Beth: My Sister’s Journey to Independence, My Journey to Embracing My Sister.”
The conference also featured a well-attended community networking reception, which was open to the public. Guests enjoyed live entertainment by the Detour Company Theatre, refreshments, and door prize drawings.
The 2025 Evidence for Success Disability Conference continued its tradition as one of Arizona’s premier disability events, offering attendees a dynamic space for collaboration and innovation. Participants—whether professionals, students, self-advocates, or family members—left the event better prepared and inspired to promote equity and opportunity within their communities.
