ADVOCATE-INNOVATE-ELEVATE: IAC 13th Annual Conference: Full Schedule

9:00am EDT

Opening Keynote- HEAL*ARIOUS: Humor as a Superpower to Advocate, Innovate, and Elevate

Wednesday May 28, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

In a time when human services professionals are navigating overwhelming stress, burnout, and constant change, it’s never been more important to embrace tools that restore energy and elevate purpose. In this engaging and entertaining keynote, Robin Phoenix Johnson, a combat veteran, Certified Humor Professional, and stand-up comedian blends laughter with powerful insights to show how humor isn’t just a coping mechanism, but a transformative force for advocacy, innovation, and leadership. With real-world stories, research-backed strategies, and plenty of jokes, Robin will empower attendees to use humor as a superpower to combat negativity, spark creativity, and strengthen human connections. Prepare to laugh, learn, and leave recharged—ready to advocate boldly, innovate wisely, and elevate yourself and those around you.

Speakers

Robin Phoenix Johnson

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Robin “Phoenix” Johnson served over twenty years in the U.S. Army, with career highlights including five combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and commanding at both the company and battalion levels. After hanging up her boots, Robin picked... Read More →

Wednesday May 28, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
TBA

9:00am EDT

Legislative Awards

Thursday May 29, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am EDT

TBA

Thursday May 29, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am EDT
TBA

1:30pm EDT

From Passion to Policy: Get Involved in National Advocacy

Thursday May 29, 2025 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

TBA

With Medicaid facing serious threats, now is the time to act. For people with disabilities, Medicaid is a lifeline—providing essential healthcare, home and community-based services, education support, and more. Federal Medicaid cuts could lead to devastating cost shifts to states. Harmful policies like work requirements, per capita caps, and block grants can be enacted. Join this session to dive into Medicaid’s complexities and discover how to turn your passion into powerful federal advocacy!

Speakers

Brittany Owens

Senior Associate for Policy and Advocacy, The ARC of the United States

Brittany Owens is the Senior Associate for Policy and Advocacy at The Arc of the United States. Brittany’s federal policy portfolio includes maternal health, health equity, and voting rights. As a sibling, Brittany is passionate about disability rights and uplifting people... Read More →

Kim Musheno

Senior Director of Medicaid Policy, The ARC of the United States

Kim Musheno is the senior Director of Medicaid policy at The Arc of the United States. She has a 30 year history in intellectual and developmental disability policy advocacy.

Thursday May 29, 2025 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
TBA

ADVOCATE-INNOVATE-ELEVATE: IAC 13th Annual Conference

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