REGISTRATION

WHY WE MEET – CAPED 2010

In these fiscally tight times some people have argued that we should not hold our Convention because many cannot afford to attend. I counter by saying, how can we afford NOT to attend? The CAPED convention has historically been the breeding ground that has given birth to legislation, system-wide policies, innovative services and state-of-the-art technology for students with disabilities in postsecondary education. We have developed programs, services and activities that have become models for the entire country. Just last year AB 386 was passed by the state legislature and enacted into law, easing restrictions on captioning materials for students. This issue was first brought forward at the 2008 convention by CAPED members from CSU’s at the Program Management CIG meeting. The community college DHH funding was first conceived by a group of CAPED members sitting in a hotel lobby during an impromptu meeting. There are many other examples of great things happening when disability services professionals meet together, including the beginnings of CAPED and the community college DSPS program.

While as President I got the use of a large suite at the convention last fall, I paid part of my own costs for attending the convention. I also shared my room with someone who couldn’t afford to come on their own. Last fall’s CAPED in San Diego was the most important convention I have ever attended, because in trying times it re-energized me to go back and fight the fight more than any other time in my career. I feel bad for anyone who couldn’t make it and missed out on that renewal of spirit, and I can assure you that attending CAPED this fall will be worth whatever it costs you to do so. There is no substitute for sharing ideas and inspiration with people who are as dedicated as you are to providing equal access to education for students with disabilities.

CAPED is presently at a crossroad, shall we say a “Transition”, in our growth as an association. As we continue to plan for our organization, we ask your support in attending the 2010 CAPED Convention in San Jose to help us build on our past, effect the present and look to our future. It is said that in the counsel of many there is wisdom, and I’m not that smart so I need everyone’s wisdom.

We look forward to seeing you in San Jose and being part of our future.

Scott Hamilton, CAPED President