NABS Notes – July 2025

“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Welcome to the July edition of NABS Notes. As summer reaches its peak, this month offers a moment to embrace rest, renewal, and reconnection—with ourselves, with others, and with our goals. Whether you’re spending your days immersed in internships, research, travel, or well-deserved downtime, July reminds us of the importance of balance and the power of reflection.

This edition is here to keep you informed, encouraged, and engaged during this vibrant season. From professional opportunities to community updates, we hope you find something that speaks to your journey. As always, if you have questions or would like to get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out to any committee chair or member of NABS leadership—we’d love to hear from you.

In this edition you will find:

  • A Message from Nikhil Dadlani, secretary of the National Association of Blind Students
  • Committee Updates 
  • How to Make the Most Out of National Convention 
  • What Federationists are looking forward to at the 2025 National Convention
  • Information About Mid-Atlantic Seminar
  • State Division Spotlight

 

A Message from Nikhil Dadlani, Secretary of the National Association of Blind Students

Dear NABS Community,

July comes with it a time for change, but also a time to reflect on what has been. Ever since our last National Convention in Orlando, we all have accomplished so much. Take, for example, our vibrant 2025 Washington Seminar, where we used our collective voice to advocate for change and to raise awareness to issues that affect students, while also building community through our winter seminar and lively auction. Or our committee work, where we have hosted calls on so many different topics, from disability rights issues to fun game nights. All of this shows us the need for community, partnership, and strength. During our National Convention, there is so much to look forward to, from the legendary NABS networking to our annual NABS Walk-A-Thon! Join us, either in-person or virtually, from July 8-13 to learn more not just about the community and opportunities around you, but also about yourself and how you can take what you learn to keep working hard towards your life goals.

Yet, this time also reminds us of all of the personal milestones that we have passed. Some of you have graduated from either high school or college, with bright and promising future plans ahead. Many of you are taking part in summer internship programs, or have plans to start full-time employment in the coming months. All of you completed another year of study, and in the process grew more capable, confident and ready to take on life’s various challenges. All of this, and even the most personal of milestones, calls for celebration and recognition. For how far you have come to be who you are today, but also, for your immense potential that you have for life’s next chapter. Celebration, community, and opportunity is why NABS is here and so proud to be a part of the student experience.

I look forward to another exciting convention and to building out our community even more.

Best of Wishes to you!

Warm Regards,

Nikhil Dadlani 

 

Committee Updates

Our committees have been hard at work from hosting Zoom calls to engaging with the community to planning for National Convention. Below are updates from all four of the committees.

Advocacy

The Advocacy Committee continues to host monthly DARE (Disability Advocacy Rights and Education) calls, which provide a space to discuss current legal developments and share strategies for effective advocacy within the disability community.

In May, the call focused on recent updates in disability rights litigation. We discussed the Texas v. Kennedy case, which the NFB has been actively involved in for several months. We also reviewed A.J.T. v. Osseo Area Schools, a case with significant implications for both the ADA and Section 504. We are pleased to report that, following our call, a unanimous decision was issued in favor of our community. The conversation also emphasized the importance of staying informed and educated about our rights.

In June, the DARE call explored the topic of traveling as a blind person. Participants shared practical strategies for navigating airports, understanding white cane laws, and interacting with TSA personnel. The session included a skit illustrating a typical TSA experience, which provided useful insights in a relatable format.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support and participate in these important conversations. If you would like to get involved, please contact Kaleigh Brendle, chair of the Advocacy committee, at kaleighbrendle@gmail.com.

 

Content Creation

As we end a wonderful NFB year, the Content Creation Committee has much to celebrate. Of course, we continue to keep you up to date on happenings throughout NABS on social media; you can follow NABS on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for the latest NABS news, updates, merch, seminar announcements and information, and much more. We are particularly pleased to announce for the first time that we will highlight the perspectives of students at multiple NABS-related events at the 2025 National Federation of the Blind Convention. You don’t want to miss their thoughts, observations, and interviews, so keep tuned to our socials. In addition, the NABS NOW Podcast is pleased to announce our July episode: “Breaking Barriers in Volunteer Work – Serving in the Civil Air Patrol” featuring three blind Senior Members of Civil Air Patrol, Lieutenant Colonel John Pak of Maryland, Captain Svetlana Ehlers of Missouri, and First Lieutenant Maxine Gretchokoff of Mississippi. They will share how they serve their country through the official auxiliary of the United States Air Force, tell stories of how they raised the expectations of blind people within the organization, detail how their volunteerism has allowed them to pursue professional aspirations, and explain how future blind people can also serve. We’ll be releasing this episode early this month; as always, you can find the NABS NOW Podcast on our YouTube channel or on your favorite podcast app of choice.

Finally, the Content Creation Committee is, of course, always interested in your thoughts, suggestions, ideas, and input. Please either feel free to reach out to us either on WhatsApp in the National Association of Blind Students community or by writing to our Committee Chair, Noah T. Carver, via email at noah.t.carver@outlook.com.

 

Fundraising

The NABS Fundraising Committee is always looking for creative and engaging ways to support our mission—and this summer is no exception! We are excited to announce our ninth annual Walk-a-Thon, taking place from July 8th to July 10th. Whether you’re strolling through your neighborhood or exploring a new city, we encourage you to join us in this fun and accessible event. While you can participate from anywhere in the world, we especially hope to see many of you walking with us in New Orleans during the 2025 NFB National Convention. To participate, simply register via our Google Form and join our fundraising efforts through our RallyUp Campaign Page hIn addition to the Walk-a-Thon, NABS will be selling exclusive merchandise at this year’s convention! Be sure to stop by our table in the exhibit hall to browse our festive Mardi Gras-themed t-shirts and stylish NFB water bottles—perfect souvenirs to commemorate the convention and support blind students nationwide.

If you have any questions about our fundraising efforts or want to get more involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Zachary Ledford, Chair of the Fundraising Committee, at ledford.zachary38@gmail.com. We look forward to your participation and support!

 

Membership

The Membership Committee hosted a virtual trivia night in which participants were able to choose from several categories such as pop culture, sports, NFB, and random. There was a lot of energy and excitement and we would like to thank everyone who joined. We are planning more virtual events and initiatives to keep the community engaged.

Our WhatsApp community has been thriving, whether it’s a conversation on guide dogs or members playing word association, there is something for everyone. WhatsApp gives you the opportunity to mute specific channels while still staying updated on initiatives you care about.

If you would like to get involved in our committee or join the WhatsApp community, please reach out to Nikhil Dadlani, committee chair, at nikkidadlani@gmail.com.

 

How to Make the Most out of National Convention

The NFB National Convention is the largest gathering of blind people in the world, and it’s an empowering, inspiring, and action-packed week filled with opportunities for connection, education, advocacy, and fun. Whether it’s your first time attending or you're a returning participant, there’s always something new to experience—and a few tips that can help you make the most of it.

One of the most powerful parts of convention is the chance to engage with the various divisions of the NFB. Divisions bring together members who share common identities, interests, or career goals. For example, NFB MINA (Middle Eastern and North African) is an identity-based division that creates space for people who identify as Middle Eastern and/or North African or who wish to be allies to those communities. These spaces are valuable not just for cultural connection, but also for empowering individuals to lead and organize within their communities.

There are also divisions focused on hobbies and professions—such as the NFB Sports and Recreation Division, which promotes fitness, wellness, and active lifestyles among blind people. Other divisions focus on fields like education, law, science and engineering, performing arts, and more. Division events can include panel discussions, workshops, meet-and-greets, and hands-on activities. These gatherings are a great way to meet people who share your passions and to learn about leadership opportunities within the Federation.

To help you plan your schedule and avoid conflicts, the official agenda is available here. You can also download the convention app on both Apple and Android devices to create your own schedule. We highly recommend reviewing it in advance and bookmarking events that align with your goals and interests.

In addition to division events, all attendees are encouraged to attend the General Sessions, which are central to the convention experience. These sessions offer a comprehensive view of the NFB’s national priorities, current campaigns, and future direction. You’ll hear from national leaders, guest speakers, and fellow Federationists who will inspire you with their stories and achievements. It’s also a space where important announcements are made, and where the power of our collective voice is felt most strongly.

Another key event is the Resolutions Meeting, where members debate and vote on proposed resolutions. These documents shape the NFB’s legislative and policy focus for the upcoming year, guiding our advocacy efforts at both the state and national levels.

As students, you won’t want to miss the two major events hosted by NABS. First, our Networking Event is a must-attend social designed to connect blind students from across the country. Whether you're in high school, college, graduate school, or beyond, you’ll meet peers and alumni who understand your journey, and you’ll build connections that can last a lifetime.

Second, the NABS Business Meeting offers updates on the work of our national student division, opportunities to get involved with committees, and a chance to meet the 2025 national scholarship winners. This is where our student voice is heard, and where the future of NABS takes shape.

Make sure to take advantage of every opportunity—and most of all, enjoy the experience. We can’t wait to connect with you in person!

 

What Federationists are Looking Forward to at the 2025 National Convention

“I'm Gene, and this is my seventh National Convention. I'm really looking forward to finding live music in NOLA, meeting new folks at NABS Student Networking, and reconnecting with old friends throughout the week.” ~ Gene K

“This is going to be my fifth convention, and one thing I always look forward to is the networking, both with meeting new people and hanging out with old friends at convention.” ~ Ammar T

“This will be my first convention. As a rising sophomore, I’m excited to learn from everyone who has attended previously and connect with new people and resources. I have particular interest in assistive technology, public policy, and just making sure that blind people live happy lives.” ~ Ryan M

“This will be my eighth convention, and I am most looking forward to the exhibit hall because I love discovering the new advancements that are being made and meeting amazing people that are making it happen!!!” ~ Erin D 

“I have been to 34 conventions!! I am looking forward to running into old friends and making new ones!” ~ Millie R

 I”'m looking forward to all the networking that happens at convention! It is always so wonderful to meet great examples who can give you the knowledge, tools, and connections to later be that example for someone else!” ~ Riley L 

“I have attended 4 conventions. It is always exciting to see and hear what’s going on in other states. You get the chance to network, learn about new technology and visit a place you’ve never been.” ~ KaShonia G

 

Information about the Mid-Atlantic Seminar

The National Association of Blind Students is excited to invite blind students from across the country to attend the 2025 Mid-Atlantic Regional Student Seminar, taking place August 1–3, 2025, in the vibrant city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the Hampton Inn Center City Philadelphia, located at 1301 Race Street. This year’s theme, “Charting the Course: Finding Your Fit as a Student,” will guide attendees through interactive sessions and presentations focused on building confidence, community, and success—both in and out of the classroom. Participants will have opportunities to reflect on their personal journeys, engage with peers, and gain valuable tools for navigating student life. The registration form is now open and must be completed by July 18, 2025. Hotel rooms are available at a rate of $129 per night for a room with two queen beds. You can reserve your room by booking online via our official seminar link or by calling 888-245-3531 and referencing the National Federation of the Blind NABS student seminar. Hotel reservations must also be made by July 18 to guarantee your room. The event will follow the NFB Code of Conduct and the Youth Program Participant Protection Policy to ensure a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone. Your health is important to us, so if you're feeling unwell, we ask that you stay home in alignment with safety guidelines from the NFB of Pennsylvania. We recognize that the $100 registration fee may be a barrier for some, and we encourage those needing financial assistance to contact Zachary Ledford at 801-649-8048 or ledford.zachary38@gmail.com. If you have any questions about travel, lodging, or the weekend’s schedule, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Zachary directly.

 

 State Division Spotlight

We are extremely proud of all of our student divisions. On this edition we are spotlighting the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students. Below is a message from Simon Bonenfant, President of Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students:

The Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students (PABS) has been hard at work revitalizing our division throughout the past year. We are excited to announce that Philadelphia will be the home of the Mid Atlantic Student Seminar, and we are thrilled to welcome you to the City of Brotherly Love! 

Aditionally, as a way to support students attendance at the seminar, PABS will be holding a virtual talent show fundraiser on Monday, June 23rd, 2025, at 8:00 PM. 

Learn more and support here.

Finally, PABS would like to congratulate our four outstanding national scholarship finalists, Waseem Aljanazreh, Toby Harnish, Noor Khraisat, and Mandy Smith. We are so proud of these exceptional students and can’t wait to see what they’ll do in the future!

If you would like to get in touch with the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students, contact the administrative team by sending an email to nfb.pabs@gmail.com. You can also follow us on Instagram at pabs_nfb to receive the latest updates.

Looking forward to seeing many of you in Philly this August!

Simon Bonenfant 

President, Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students

 

Closing and Contact Info

This concludes July’s edition of NABS Notes. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions for future editions, please reach out to Amina Orzueva, editor of NABS Notes, at aminaorzueva@gmail.com.