President's Message
Dear Friends of Perkins,
As we welcome the vibrant colors of spring, Perkins' services on campus, in the community, and around the world continue to blossom in new and exciting ways.
The expertise of our teachers offers our students unparalleled educational opportunities. Visit the new Accessible Science section of our website or view webcasts to see why Perkins teachers are recognized leaders in the field. Explore our new Information Clearinghouse on Blindness and Visual Impairment and you will find crucial online resources that are constantly being updated and expanded.
The latest issue of Perkins Insight explores Perkins' use of assistive technology to bring greater independence to individuals who are blind, deafblind, and visually impaired with or without other disabilities. On March 31, the acquisition of Adaptive Technology Consulting, Inc., was finalized, bringing Gayle Yarnall and her dedicated team into the Perkins Products family.
In the community, Perkins is reaching out to people of all ages. Our first "Envision the Future … Transition from School to Adult Life," conference on March 29, helped over 150 students, families, teachers, and other professionals to navigate through the complicated planning process faced by graduating students.
At the other end of the spectrum, the 25th New England Regional Seminar for Children with Visual Impairments and Families (Birth to 7) was May 3. The information provided during this unique event is transformative and the connections made are often life-long.
On May 1, the 2008 Perkins Possibilities Gala raised an amazing $1.2 million during an inspiring evening for our supporters to experience first-hand how Perkins transforms lives.
Perkins' vision continues to spread internationally. With the 10-year anniversary of the Perkins Brailler® plant in Cape Town, we celebrated a decade of bringing literacy and independence to children who are blind and visually impaired in South Africa. On May 23, educators from around the world will graduate from Perkins Educational Leadership Program and become leaders and resources in their communities.
As Perkins continues to influence positive change at home and abroad, we invite you to join the effort by subscribing to our e-newsletters and providing us with your feedback.
Sincerely,
Steven M. Rothstein
President