From the Desk of the 2026 APA President
As we wrap up another successful conference, I want to personally thank the Education and Events Committee (Angela Shapiro – Chair), the JBMS Committee (Meghan Simecek – Chair), our ever-diligent staff, the Keynote Speaker, Karen L. Braitmayer, for “Accessibility as an Act of Empowerment," all those who presented, and our vendors. Without their commitment and participation, the conference could not have happened nor been as successful.
Mark your calendar for next year’s APA National Conference in San Antonio, January 20 - 22, 2027. There will be a special field trip to Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first Ultra-Accessible TM family fun park; hence, next year’s theme, “The Wonders of Accessibility”. The Conference will be held at the Estancia del Norte.
This year’s theme, “Growing Stronger Together,” not only applies to strength in numbers but also refers to strength in diversity, the opportunity to broaden and expand our understanding and cooperation beyond our familiar comfort zones as we endeavor to improve the accessible environment and beyond.
An opportunity to work together is to assist in updating and maintaining your Member Profile on the new APA website (APAaccess.org). Take a few minutes to log in, review your profile, and make corrections; there are still dozens of profiles that have not been updated since the migration to our new website. Be sure to update your profile to keep the information correct. If you need assistance, reach out to either Frances or Minda.
Now, let’s have a successful year, “Growing Stronger Together.”
Walter Qualls, AIA, RAS, ADAC, 2026 APA President
March 2026