Access to All is a revolutionary step forward in making “Go Anywhere” not just an idea but a reality for each and every individual.
At the heart of Access to All lies our esteemed team of over 100 accessibility experts, hailing from every corner of the globe. Our culture is distinct and essential to our success, and it begins with our team. Meet our leaders who are striving to create meaningful and memorable experiences for all disabled travelers.
Dr. Amy Hebert Knopf, the pioneer of Access to All, is a leading figure in disability rights and advocacy at St. Cloud State University. As the Director of Education and Research at the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy, Dr. Hebert Knopf champions inclusive policies and practices, driven by zir own experiences with a non-apparent disability.
Ze has a distinguished history in disability research, highlighted by a fellowship at the Harkin Institute for Public Policy & Citizen Engagement and extensive work on the global stage, focusing on accessibility, education, and employment for people with disabilities. At St. Cloud State University, ze continues to break barriers and advocate for transformative changes in society.
Dr. Hebert Knopf's commitment to creating an inclusive world where everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to opportunities is at the heart of zir work with Access to All.
Heather Rood, a key advocate for disability rights at St. Cloud State University, excels as the Curriculum Coordinator for the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy and as one of the lead content creators for their training programs. With over fourteen years in disability advocacy, Heather's expertise in curriculum development and program management is instrumental in promoting inclusive practices, especially in employment and education settings.
Her personal experience with a non-apparent disability enriches her advocacy, driving her commitment to establishing accessible and inclusive environments. Heather has collaborated with various businesses to develop best practices for job accommodations, showcasing her strong dedication to disability rights.
Holding a Master's in Rehabilitation Counseling and being a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Heather is an active member of the National Rehabilitation Association. Her work is pivotal in advancing a society that embraces equality and accessibility for all.
Crystal Gagnon is a content writer for Access to All, bringing over 20 years of experience in working with diverse individuals with disabilities. As an adjunct in Consulting in Accessibility and Inclusion at the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy, and a rehabilitation counselor for Vocational Rehabilitation in New Hampshire, Crystal applies her deep understanding of disability advocacy to her roles.
Her contributions to Mélange Accessibility for All magazine reflect her commitment to promoting inclusive practices. Crystal's personal journey with a non-apparent disability adds invaluable insight to her advocacy, enhancing her effectiveness in championing accessibility.
Holding a master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from St. Cloud State University and being a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Crystal embodies the spirit of dedicated service in pursuit of a more inclusive world, where accessibility is not just an ideal, but a reality for all.
Peter Slatin, founder of Slatin Group LLC, combines his expertise as a disability consultant, writer, advocate, and content writer for Access to All. Blind himself, Peter contributes significantly to disability inclusion, focusing on education, training, and service excellence for people with disabilities.
Recognized as an Accessibility Champion by Visions/Services for the Blind, he is also a keynote speaker, notably at the 2023 Access U conference. His leadership roles include director positions at Empire State Employment Resources for the Blind and the Colorado Center for the Blind.
An award-winning journalist, Peter has written for The New York Times and Wall Street Journal, primarily on architecture and finance. He founded Grid magazine, covering architecture and commercial property, and is a recipient of the Oculus Award for Excellence in Architectural Journalism. His diverse skill set, and personal experiences make him a key contributor to the discourse on disability accessibility and inclusion.
Sherri Rademacher, an accomplished educator and advocate, serves as the Assistant Director of Outreach and Special Projects at the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy at St. Cloud State University. With a Master of Education from the University of Minnesota, Sherri has enriched her career with significant roles, including being a vital part of CIDAD's team.
Deaf since the age of 18 months, Sherri's experiences have shaped her into a strong leader and an influential community member. She started her advocacy work at the Center for Independent Living in Illinois, progressing to roles like Deaf Services Coordinator and Executive Director for the Tennessee Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
As one of Access to All's Disabled Talent performers, Sherri brings her unique perspective and skills to the forefront. Sherri's journey is a powerful testament to overcoming stereotypes and enabling Deaf people to be part of the solution.
Grace Grell, a dynamic advocate, and graduate student in Rehabilitation Counseling at St. Cloud State University, serves as a project specialist at the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy. Legally blind since childhood due to cancer, Grace channels her experiences into fostering a more inclusive and accessible world.
As a key figure among Access to All's Disabled Talent performers, Grace uses her platform to highlight disability rights and inclusion. Her commitment extends to Gift with Grace, a nonprofit she founded to support international charities.
Despite facing vision loss during critical stages of her life, Grace's resilience shines through in her various roles, including winning the title of 2023 Miss Minnesota for America Strong. Her journey not only reflects personal triumph but also serves as her superpower in the ongoing dialogue about the need to educate professionals about disability accessibility and inclusion.
Adeshola Adeniji, a vibrant and committed advocate, and Project Assistant at the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy at St. Cloud State University, is making significant strides as a graduate student in Social Work. She stands out as an essential member of Access to All's Disabled Talent performers, drawing from her personal experiences with a non-apparent disability that began in early childhood.
As the Co-founder and Executive Director of GivFree Africa, Adeshola is passionately dedicated to improving lives in Nigeria, particularly focusing on empowering youth with disabilities through education and skills development. Her extensive experience in grassroots advocacy and humanitarian operations has not only honed her skills in project coordination and research but also led to her involvement with the Clinton Global Initiative.
Adeshola's journey embodies resilience and commitment to inclusivity, making her work a essential in the ongoing efforts for disability accessibility and inclusion globally.
Archie Alexandre, a graduate student in the Rehabilitation Counseling Clinical Track Master's Program at St. Cloud State University, stands out as an essential performer of Access to All's Disabled Talent. Working as a graduate assistant in Rehabilitation Counseling, Archie skillfully integrates academic knowledge with practical experience, drawing from his own journey with a non-apparent disability.
Diagnosed with autism in adulthood, Archie brings a unique perspective to his advocacy work, particularly in promoting accessibility for disabled travelers. His commitment to creating accessible and welcoming travel experiences is informed by his personal and professional insights into disability, anti-racism, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. This dedication extends to his volunteer efforts with the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy.
Archie's approach to disability accessibility and inclusion, combined with his passion for inclusive travel, marks him as an influential advocate and empathetic guide in the ongoing efforts to ensure equal opportunities and experiences for all travelers.
Riley Johnson, a Mechanical Design Engineer at Park Industries and a University of Minnesota graduate, is a prominent member of Access to All's Disabled Talent performers. Riley's journey is marked by his academic achievements in Mechanical Engineering and his personal experiences with Arthrogryposis, a condition limiting joint movement.
Despite these challenges, Riley's passion for Power Soccer has led him to remarkable heights as a member of the US National Team. He's traveled extensively, competing globally and mentoring athletes worldwide. His dedication to the sport extends to his role on the Executive Board of the US Power Soccer Association.
Riley's engagement in Power Soccer is not just about the game; it's a platform for demonstrating the independence of people with disabilities and empowering their families with new perspectives. His blend of technical skill and athletic prowess makes him an inspiring figure, showcasing resilience and the power of adaptive sports.
Beckie Dupre, a seasoned professional in patient finance, billing, and insurance, currently excels as the Project and Event Specialist at the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy at St. Cloud State University. With over 20 years of experience, her expertise spans customer service, project management, and budget oversight, crucial in her diverse roles involving patient account representation and education.
Being hard of hearing, Beckie brings a personal perspective to her work, particularly in her experience with Deaf students within the school system. This insight deepens her commitment to disability advocacy and enhances her effectiveness in supporting individuals with disabilities.
In her current role, Beckie's responsibilities include coordinating projects, organizing events, and managing office operations. Additionally, as the director of filming and a contributor to editing, she demonstrates a versatile skill set that makes her an invaluable asset to the center. Beckie's multifaceted talents and dedication significantly advance the center's mission of empowering individuals with disabilities.
Fawad Ali, a dedicated Master of Applied Economics student, is making a significant impact as a Graduate Assistant at the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy. In this role, he manages the production and post-production of educational videos, a task he approaches with a personal commitment stemming from his family members who are deaf. This connection deepens his dedication to accessibility and inclusion in his work.
Fawad's expertise in visual storytelling was developed during his tenure as the Director of Graphics for the Organization for Educational Change (OEC). His passion for technology further drives him to manage tech-related websites, curating content on cutting-edge apps and games.
Blending his skills in economics, technology, and video production, Fawad is uniquely positioned to contribute to both the academic and technological spheres, using his experiences and insights to champion accessibility and innovation.
Dr. Kathryn Johnson, in her vital role with Access to All, is responsible for establishing key partnerships and marketing educational courses, leveraging her extensive background in disability policy and advocacy. As the Director of Partnership and Policy for the Center of Disability Policy and Advocacy at St. Cloud State University, she brings a wealth of experience to this position.
Earning her Ph.D. in Comparative International Development Education from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Johnson has been instrumental in preparing future special education teachers and in leading international initiatives, notably in China. Her efforts include facilitating the development of Chinese immersion programs and the US-China School for the Deaf Project, aimed at enhancing global competencies for Deaf students.
With a decade-long background as a teacher for Deaf students before joining SCSU, Dr. Johnson is passionately committed to advancing the rights of Deaf students worldwide. Her work, spanning continents, focuses on global disability rights, particularly the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Sustainable Development Goals.
We believe that disability should never be a barrier to discovering the world's wonders.
Access To All resonates with the spirit of unbounded exploration, underscoring our belief that disability should never be a barrier to discovering the world’s wonders. Our commitment aligns with the principles of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, targeting inclusivity in all facets of societal development. Proudly display your digital credentials on your social media and in your professional resume, exclusively issued by St. Cloud State University. Access to All is an initiative of the Center for International Disability Advocacy and Diplomacy.
Transforming industries with expert-designed disability trainings, our digital badges are dedicated to advancing inclusion and fostering equitable experiences for everyone.
Our mission is to drive business excellence and innovation by empowering employees with meticulously crafted disability training in the form of digital badges. By providing the tools to foster an inclusive environment, we aim to ensure that every service is accessible and equitable, enriching customer experiences while elevating industry standards and boosting business success.