National Federation of the Blind of Ohio logo, Live the Life You Want, image of six identical line drawings of blind people facing forward in a circular pattern, each figure holds a white cane starting above the right shoulder extending diagonally downward toward the base of the left leg.

National Federation of the Blind of Ohio

79th Annual State Convention

November 6, 7, 8, and 9, 2025

Wyndham Garden Hotel, Cleveland-Westlake

1100 Crocker Road, Cleveland Westlake, Ohio 44145

(800) 445-8667

Welcome to the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio’s 79th Annual State Convention. Our theme “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now”! We fight to win, breaking down barriers and sustaining our civil rights.

Richard Payne, Affiliate President

Suzanne Turner, Convention Arrangements Coordinator

National Representative

Pamela Allen, Chairperson and Vice President of the Board of Directors of the National Federation of the Blind, Director of the Louisiana Center for the Blind, and President of the NFB of Louisiana

Host Chapters

At large, Lorane, and Greater Akron

Presidents: Colleen Roth, Sherry Ruth and Kathy Legg respectively.

 


 

 

Welcome to the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio’s 79th Annual State Convention. Our theme “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now! We fight to win, breaking down barriers and sustaining our civil rights.

As a founding affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, we have a strong legacy of working together as a community in order to protect and advocate for our civil rights as blind people from its very beginning.

Through our vast network of blind members and friends, we coordinate programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind people, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates unlimited opportunities.

We believe in the ability of blind people to organize and advocate on our own behalf and reflect this belief from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

We respect and are inclusive of blind people of all backgrounds and abilities. It is our uniqueness as individuals and our collective dedication to our mission as blind people that is at the core of our strength as an organization.

Working together, we are an unstoppable force in our pursuit of civil rights for the blind in Ohio and beyond. 

The Belief Message

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. We know that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination, and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.

NFB Pledge

I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution. 

Code of Conduct

The National Federation of the Blind of Ohio State Convention is a family friendly event. We are committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment dedicated to positive experiences for blind people. We hold ourselves and our attendees to strict adherence to the National Federation of the Blind Code of Conduct found at:

https://nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct/code

Privacy Notice

“This is a public event. You may be filmed on video or captured in photos that may be published in media outlets, including Twitter, Facebook, or other social media sites. Some sessions and activities at the 2025 National Federation of the Blind of Ohio State Convention may be photographed or videotaped. By participating in the State Convention, registrants agree that The National Federation of the Blind of Ohio has the right to use their image, likeness and/or voice or sound recording taken in connection to the State Convention in all Media.”

Convention Arrangements

If you have any questions about convention arrangements, contact Suzanne Turner, Convention Arrangements Coordinator, at (216) 990-6199 or SMTurner.234@gmail.com.

Rookie Roundup

All first-time convention attendees are cordially invited to attend a reception from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025 in the Bradley Room. President Payne, National Representative, Pam Allen and other Federation leaders will be on hand to welcome you and preview the convention activities. Division and Chapter Presidents, along with seasoned members should urge all first-timers to attend this special opportunity. 

Reserve Your Room Now!

The Wyndham Garden Westlake Hotel address is 1100 Crocker Road, Cleveland Westlake, Ohio 44145. You can make reservations by calling (800) 445-8667. Individuals must identify themselves as being with the group, The National Federation of the Blind, at the time the reservation is made in order to receive the special group rate. The room rates are only $115.00, plus applicable taxes which includes breakfast for 2 occupants per room. Breakfast is from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM. In the Sanctuary Restaurant. The last date to reserve a room is Monday, October 06, 2025. The good news is that when you make your reservations, funds are not deducted from your credit card until you arrive at the hotel.

The Wyndham Garden Westlake Hotel

On behalf of the affiliate President, Richard Payne, and the Ohio Executive Board of Directors, we are honored to have you join the 79th state of Ohio convention here in beautiful Westlake Ohio. As you will experience during your stay, Northeast Ohio has a lot of great attractions, and this city is one.

The Wyndham Garden Westlake Hotel is elegant and simple. It has a clean design and warm hospitality. When you walk through the double doors, you’re immediately in the lobby. As you pivot left of the doors, the Sales Department is straight ahead. However, if you pivot right, that corridor leads to the Canterbury/Dover, and Bradley/Bassett Ballrooms. Various Seminars and the Pre-Function Area are located there as well. Subsequently, back at the front door, if you walk twenty feet forward, to the left is the hotel's Front desk, you will check-in. Directly across from the front desk is the sanctuary restaurant where you can partake of watering appetizers, order a full course meal, or relax at the elegant/sexy bar. But, if you need to wind down for a minute or two, there are cloth chairs and several sofas in the middle of the lobby for just that.

Again, as you check into the hotel at the front desk, the sleeping rooms are just around to the right of the desk, and down the hall. You will also notice as you journey down the opening hallway, the elevator is directly to your left. There are several of our Convention rooms on the second and third floor, which all are accessible! Just turn right after exiting and travel down the hall. Please review the agenda for more details not to miss anything the convention has to offer!

Online Pre-Registration and Hotel Registration

Online Pre-Registration is open until November 4, 2025 at 11:59 AM. You can go to: NFBOhio.org/Convention and complete the process. Pre-Registration is $25.00, and the Banquet is $55.00. Note: After November 4th at 11:59 AM. In-person Registration is $30.00, and the Banquet is $60.00.

Hotel Pre-Registration packet pick-up and convention registration will take place in the Pre-Function Area outside the ballrooms. Those who have completed their registration prior to convention will form a line at the Pre-Registration Table for a speedy process. Visit the Registration Table to register for convention, or to purchase additional tickets to events. Both tables will be open for two shifts on November 07 from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM and 12:30 PM to 1:45 PM. We look forward to helping you register as quickly as possible so you can be on your way to enjoying a great weekend of events. For more information about registration, please contact Suzanne Turner, Convention Arrangements Coordinator at (216) 990-6199 or SMTurner.234@gmail.com.

NFB Literature

NFB literature will be available throughout the convention next to the registration area. Feel free to take as much as you like; and share it with your friends and family. 

Annual Auction

Help our affiliate to continue its legacy of advocacy by and for the blind by bringing your positive energy and generously giving in support of a great cause during our annual auction held at the Banquet on Saturday evening.

It promises to be fun for the entire family with many valuable items up for bid. Our chapters, divisions, and many friends contribute a wide range of items including electronics, gift certificates, food baskets, and more.

Please contact Annette Lutz at (614) 288-4323 to make plans to get auction items to her immediately upon arrival at the hotel. Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Door Prizes

Door prizes will be drawn periodically throughout convention sessions on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and during our banquet. To be eligible to win a door prize, you must be registered for the convention and present in the meeting space when your name is called. All donated items should be labeled clearly in print and Braille with the donor's name, the amount of the gift, and the type of gift being contributed. Deliver prizes directly to Annette Lutz or leave them with a representative at the Convention Registration table along with its print/Braille label. 

Hospitality

You are invited to the hospitality suites during the hours of 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM on Fri, Nov 07, for snacks and beverages. Ohio affiliate members will be on hand to greet attendees. The location will be on the Conference Level, (Rooms A/B and C/D Rooms), which is located on the third floor! Do not miss delicious treats, great conversations, and mingling with old and new friends.

Exhibit Hall 

Whether you are an information seeker or a new gadget shopper, you will find everything that you need to help you live the life you want at the 2025 Exhibit Hall. Visit Exhibit Hall in the Pre-Function Area outside the ballrooms and the (Hotel Atrium) on Saturday, November 08 from Noon until 4:00 PM. Both are located on the first floor. Explore the latest technology and to get answers to the questions that race through your mind about employment, healthcare, services for the blind, and so much more. 

For questions, please reach out to Suzanne Turner, Convention Arrangements Coordinator at (216) 990-6199 or SMTurner.234@gmail.com.

Guide Dogs 

For your convenience, At the end of the Banquet Hall (closest to the Dover Room) There are two exits that will take you to the parking lot, and off to the left are some grassy areas for any pups that need to take a break. For assistance, with any guide dog issues please contact, Jackie Schieman, OAGDU Division Member at (440) 223-8170 or by email: schiemja@gmail.com

Dream Makers Circle

You can help build a future of opportunity for the blind by becoming a member of our Dream Makers Circle (DMC). It is easier than you think. You can visit your bank and convert an account to a P.O.D. (payable on death) bank account, which is payable after your passing to the National Federation of the Blind or one of our affiliates. Your legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind or the National Federation of the Blind of {insert state} can be made in the form of a will or living trust, an income generating gift, or by naming us as the beneficiary of a retirement plan, IRA, pension, or a life insurance policy. You can designate a specific amount, a percentage, or list the NFB as one of several beneficiaries. For additional information, please contact Patti Chang at 410-659-9314, extension 2422 or at pchang@nfb.org.

Vehicle Donations

The National Federation of the Blind uses car donations to improve the education of blind children, distribute free white canes, help veterans, and so much more. We have partnered with Vehicles for Charity to process donated vehicles. Please call toll-free 855-659-9314, and a representative can make arrangements, or you can donate online by visiting https://nfb.org/vehicledonations.

Pre-Authorized Contributions 

Can you help the National Federation of the Blind on a regular basis? Please consider joining our pre-authorized contribution (PAC) plan. Starting at $5 monthly, you can help us turn dreams into reality and raise expectations. Call 877-632-2722, visit: https://nfb.org/pac to fill out the online form, or email pac@nfb.org for additional information.

You can leave a legacy through planned giving. Please consider including us in your estate planning. It is easier than you think. We are so grateful for all you do.

Meet National Representative, Pamela Allen

Pamela Allen is the Executive Director of the Louisiana Center for the Blind. Pam is Originally from Lancaster, New York, and was blessed to grow up in a loving and supportive family surrounded by high expectations. Blindness was not viewed as a barrier. The loving example and nurturing environment gave her a solid foundation upon which to build.

When she was a senior at Denison University majoring in psychology with a minor in women’s studies, Pam was awarded a national scholarship by the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). This opportunity would be transformative in ways she could not have imagined. It allowed her to engage with the NFB community, where she served as vice president of the Ohio Association of Blind Students and secretary of the National Association of Blind Students. Additionally, she gained valuable experience working with the Children’s Program at the Louisiana Center for the Blind during her summer breaks in college.

Pam’s commitment to empowering blind individuals ultimately led her to a leadership role as the executive director of the Louisiana Center for the Blind, located in Ruston, Louisiana. In this capacity since 2001, she has been instrumental in developing and overseeing programs that equip blind individuals with essential skills for independent living and success. Her dedication extends to her involvement with the NFB at both state and national levels. Pam serves as the president of the National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana, where she advocates for the rights and opportunities of blind individuals across the state and around the country. Her leadership and advocacy efforts have been pivotal in advancing the organization’s mission and initiatives. She serves on the Advisory Council for the Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness at Louisiana Tech University. She was also appointed by Governor Landry to serve on the Louisiana Statewide Independent Living Council. 

On a national scale, Pam currently holds the position of first vice president on the NFB’s board of directors. In this role, she collaborates with fellow leaders to shape policies and programs that promote equality and accessibility for blind individuals nationwide. She also serves as vice president for the National Association of Blind Rehabilitation Professionals. 

Pam and her husband, Roland, a talented cane travel instructor and dedicated leader at all levels, live in Ruston and have been married since 2001. In addition to traveling, Pam enjoys reading, baking, rock climbing, and shopping. She and Roland are active members of their community and love giving back. Serving as national rep is a blessing and honor that enables her to learn from and share with her Federation family.