DC Developmental Disabilities Council

2026 DDAM – Her Power, Her Story
Women in Leadership Community Panel Discussion

Join here:
https://dc-gov.zoom.us/meeting/register/cRbBZevmSGq5ntla7llMZw #/registration

March invites us to reflect on two important observances: Women’s History Month and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). Together, these moments encourage us to celebrate leadership, amplify lived experiences, and reaffirm our shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

In the spirit of this year’s DDAM theme, “Power of Support,” we recognize that meaningful progress happens when communities come together to uplift one another. Support—through advocacy, collaboration, and access—creates pathways for individuals with developmental disabilities to thrive in their workplaces, communities, and leadership roles.

Join us on Zoom for “2026 DDAM - Her Story, Her Power: Women in Leadership Community Panel Discussion,” a virtual program dedicated to uplifting the voices, leadership, and experiences of women with disabilities. This event will feature a dynamic panel of women leaders who will share their personal journeys, insights, and perspectives on leadership, advocacy, and opportunity.

The conversation will be guided by co-moderators who will facilitate a thoughtful, engaging dialogue, creating space for reflection, learning, and meaningful exchange.

We invite you to join us for this important conversation and celebration, and to help uplift the leadership and experiences of women with disabilities.

Co-Moderators:
Arlene King-Berry, J.D. (Professor of Special Education, University of District of Columbia), and Carol Grigsby (Disability Rights Advocate and host of DDinWDC Blog)

Panelist:
Anjie Shelby (Chairperson, DC Developmental Disabilities Council), Berta Mata (Bilingual Educational Support Specialist, Advocates for Justice and Education, Inc. and Community Member, DC Developmental Disabilities Council), Karen Quinones (Deputy Director of Operations, Division of Deaf, DeafBlind, & Hard of Hearing), and Norma Morán (Associate Director, Nuestra Casa, Gallaudet University)

Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Carolyn D. McCaskill (GU Alumnae '77, '79 & G-05, Retired Professor, and Former Director of the Center for Black Deaf Studies)

As we continue to mourn the passing of our dear friend, Mat McCollough, we are also deeply moved by the memories of his legacy and the impact he had on our community. This week, we join others in celebrating Mat’s life by sharing stories, supporting one another, and leading with love.

Celebration of Life
Mathew “Mat” McCollough
Friday, February 20, 2026
11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library, 5th Floor
901 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Livestream link: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/81301690848

Doors open: 11:00 AM
Service starts: 11:30 AM
Reception: 12:30 – 2:00 PM
Light refreshments will be available
ASL interpreters and CART captioning will be provided in person and online
Obituary: https://obituaries.carewellcremations.com/ronie-mccollough

Today, we honor the survivors, support those fighting, and remember those we've lost. Find information and resources by visiting: dchealth.dc.gov/service/cancer

Join us for office hours with !✨ Stop by to ask questions about discrimination, learn about your rights, and connect with OHR staff about our services and resources.

📅⏰Tuesday, February 10, 10:00 AM
📍2100 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE