Speakers
Day 02, In-Person
About Our Speakers
We are honored to welcome an outstanding lineup of professionals, advocates, and community leaders who bring expertise across every stage of the journey for individuals with disabilities. From early intervention specialists and educators to legal experts, financial planners, and self-advocates, each speaker has been carefully selected for their deep knowledge and commitment to empowering families. Together, they will provide practical guidance, share lived experiences, and highlight the resources that make Northern Virginia a stronger, more inclusive community.
-
Adriana Gallego Gomez, MS, Director, Infant and Toddler Connection of Fairfax-Falls Church , Neighborhood and Community Services
-
Carmen Zahra, National Director of Outreach, CLE
-
Carolyn Haydon, Education Consultant, For the Children (FTC) Advocacy and Behavioral Consulting Services, LLC
-
Cortney Heykoop, Founder, Clover Leaf Wealth Strategies
-
Dawn M. Schaefer, Director , Office of Special Education Procedural Support , FCPS
-
Darla, Northen Virginia Family Support Services (NVFSS)
-
Elizabeth Horn, Founder, Disability Benefits Guidance, LLC
-
Heidi Lawyer, Deputy Director, PEATC
-
Kristin Carleton, CEO & Chief Investment Strategist, All Needs Planning
-
Dr. Kathy Matthews, Chief Family Strategist and Advocate, All Needs Planning
-
Kat Rader, Program Director, SPARC, Specially Adapted Resource Centers
-
Lizzett Uria (PEATC)
-
Maura Schmidt, Program Facilitator/Independent Living Specialist, The ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia (ECNV)
-
Russell Wrightson, The Organization of Virginia Homeschoolers
-
Samita B. Arora, Dr, Assistant Professor, Early Childhood Education, George Mason University
-
Shannon Bond-Young, Program Director, Public Guardianship, The Arc of Northern Virginia