Monday, October 19, 2026
Preconference Workshop: 1-4 p.m.
The Power of Grassroots Advocacy, Community Organizing to Maximize Your Impact. - Africa 50
Explore the principles of collective action to impact issues important to the disability community. Whether it’s cuts to Medicaid, the lack of caregivers, quality education, voting or other issues important to the disability community, this training will give you the skills to have a greater impact on your community and issues that matter to you.
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Jason Glozier is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Coalition of
Independent Living Centers, and a lifelong disability rights activist.
Jason will be joined by several grassroot advocates.
Preconference Workshop 2: 1-4 p.m.
Let’s talk about Healthy Relationships and Sexuality - No Way! - Africa 70
In this interactive Community Conversation-style session, participants will explore the importance of teaching and discussing healthy relationships and sexuality with people with disabilities while addressing common myths, barriers, and the discomfort these conversations can sometimes bring. Facilitated by sexuality educator-trainers alongside self-advocates, the session is grounded in lived experience and emphasizes that everyone deserves the opportunity to love and be loved. Participants will leave with greater confidence, practical tools, and meaningful strategies for supporting healthy relationships and sexuality.
Sara Schueller is the Assistant Director of Employment with Opportunity Development Centers, Inc. (ODC).
Samantha Szynskie is the Founder and Director of One Good Friend, a nonprofit focused on building friendship, inclusion, and connection for people with disabilities and others experiencing loneliness and isolation. Through her work, she creates spaces where authentic relationships grow and people of all abilities experience joy and belonging. Samantha also teaches Healthy Relationships courses for Opportunity Development Centers (ODC) and serves as Chair of the Portage County Disability Coalition. A trained educator with a Master’s in Administrative Leadership, she has dedicated her career to advocacy, education, and building more inclusive communities.
Priscilla Battle, is a self-advocate leader with People First Wisconsin, where she teaches the Living Well Safe and Free and Know Your Rights courses. She is also a small business owner.
Tina Wiley is a peer mentor from Milwaukee who overcame early life challenges, including health issues and time in foster care. She became a nurse and foster parent, always focused on helping others. As a mentor and self-advocacy leader, Tina supports people in becoming confident, capable, and empowered.
Monday Night Kick-Off: 5-8 p.m.
You Belong Here! - Africa West Ballroom
You are exactly where you are meant to be- at the Self-Determination Conference; learning, laughing and meeting new friends. Wander through the community of resources and find new ways to connect with others. You will get to practice and learn more about self-direction, self-determination, and technology! Move across the ballroom and collect your stamps to receive your $5.00 Microbusiness voucher.
TIP: Visit all the tables and earn a $5 gift certificate to use with our Micro business vendors!