The Chair suggested that the committee consider Tracey Schmidt as a keynote speaker for the 2017 workshop. She noted that Ms. Schmidt has been increasing her speaking engagements and she has had a lot develop for her over the past few years. She did already speak at one workshop a couple of years ago, focusing her material on the Para PanAm Games. She would be a good speaker if her fees are within the budget.
It was discussed that the committee would request a change in subject matter for Tracey Schmidt if she was booked again for this year.
The Committee discussed the format of the workshop, finally deciding on a keynote speaker, a panel discussion and 2 sessions in the afternoon (non-concurrent).
Ms. Lecuyer had some suggestions for speakers or panelists: Jazzmin Jasey (Soul Focus Project Windsor http://solefocusproject.ca/ ), Dignified Day, Joshua Jaekel (http://www.uwindsor.ca/morf/dailynews/2016-04-14/circuit-design-competition-gives-students-hands-education), Importance if Physical Contact Study Doctor from Chatham (http://www.magicandmedicine.ca/about/my-story/ )
Ms. Trombley questioned whether representatives from community groups would be appropriate for panelists, such as Community Living Essex County, WEAre Able, CNIB, CMHA etc. We can seek out experts as suggested in the evaluation forms and use these individuals as the panel members for the interactive session.
Ms. Cobby suggested having government representatives to discuss issues related to ODSP. She also suggested Liz Bardon as a guest speaker.
Ms. Trombely indicated that a focus on a limited (3 or 4) experts for the panel could provide a good cross section of expertise and 3 perspectives on the panel for the interactive session.
It was decided that the committee would pursue Tracey Schmidt as the keynote speaker, providing that her fees were within acceptable budget limits.