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Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor to Speak at NEADS Conference

Photo of David C. Onley

Ottawa, October 16, 2008 – The Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, will deliver a keynote speech at the National Educational Association of Disabled Students’ (NEADS) conference, “Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow” on Saturday, November 15th.

The Honourable David Onley was appointed Ontario’s 28th Lieutenant Governor following a distinguished career as a broadcaster. He is renowned for championing disability issues.

In his role as Lieutenant Governor, he has adopted two causes: the first is to promote accessibility, as that which enables people to achieve their full potential. The second is to continue the Aboriginal Youth Literacy Programs implemented by his predecessor and to twin-track the programs to include a computer literacy initiative.

He is also a best-selling author, holds three honorary degrees, was inducted into the Terry Fox Hall of Fame and is the recipient of a number of awards including The Rick Hansen Award and The Courage to Come Back Award.

“We are very much looking forward to the Lieutenant Governor’s inspiring remarks at ‘Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow’,” said Dr. Mahadeo Sukhai, NEADS’ President. “Leadership by example is very important in our community, and together, we will discuss and define important directions and solutions to challenges faced by students with disabilities in post-secondary education.”

"Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow,” will take place at the Delta Ottawa Hotel and Suites from November 14-16, 2008. NEADS’ 2008 conference will also include other distinguished guest speakers: Steven Fletcher, Member of Parliament and Sandi Bell, Canadian Human Rights Commissioner. This exciting national conference will focus on solutions to drive change. It is an opportunity for students, consumer advocates, service providers, and employers to explore and create solutions to critical issues of equal access to post-secondary education and employment for students and graduates with disabilities.

For more information on the conference go to: www.neads.ca/conference2008

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About NEADS

The National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS) is a consumer-controlled, registered charitable organization with a mandate to encourage the self-empowerment of post-secondary students and graduates with disabilities in Canada. NEADS advocates for increased accessibility at all levels so that students with disabilities may gain equal access to a college or university education, which is the right of everyone. The Association also supports the successful transition of students and graduates with disabilities into employment within their chosen field.




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