FW: Announcing The Launch of Vision Tech Academy: Online Directory of Educators (ODE): In Honor of John Panarese — Vision Tech Academy
Richard Turner
It is with a full heart and profound gratitude that I announce the launch of the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE). This project is deeply personal to me, not just because of its potential to transform access to education for blind and low-vision students worldwide, but because it is a living tribute to the late John Panarese — a dear friend, mentor, and co-visionary.
John and I dreamed of creating a resource that would empower students to connect with trusted educators in assistive technology, breaking down barriers that have long hindered independence and learning for individuals in the accessibility community. So together we began to shape the blueprint for what would become the ODE, a platform designed to be free for students, inclusive in its reach, and robust in its ability to meet diverse learning needs.
John’s untimely passing was an immense loss for our community. His lifelong commitment to advancing accessibility and his unparalleled expertise in assistive technology left an indelible mark on countless lives. As we worked on this project, John’s passion and unwavering dedication inspired me to push through challenges, ensuring that his vision would live on.
The ODE is more than just a directory. It is a bridge — a way to connect learners with educators who understand the unique needs of blind and low-vision individuals. By offering this platform, we honor John’s legacy and provide a space where his commitment to inclusivity and empowerment will continue to flourish.
This initiative is not just a testament to John’s dream; it is a call to action for the accessibility community at large. Education is a cornerstone of independence, and by making it accessible to all, we can unlock doors that have remained closed for far too long.
Today, I invite you to join us in celebrating the realization of this dream. Together, we can ensure that John’s legacy not only endures, but continues to inspire and empower the next generation of learners and educators.
My Motivation: Honoring a Legacy, Empowering a Community
As someone who has spent decades advocating for the rights of blind and low-vision individuals I have always believed that accessibility is not just a need, but a fundamental right. My journey has been fueled by a deep commitment to breaking barriers and ensuring inclusivity in education, technology, and public spaces. From legal victories against inaccessible platforms, to pioneering new and innovative initiatives in access advocacy, I have sought to create tangible change.
In my work, I have been blessed to collaborate with extraordinary individuals who share my vision. Among them was John Panarese, whose passion for accessible technology education was truly unparalleled. John wasn’t just a colleague; he was a friend, a mentor, and a source of endless inspiration. We were drawn together by a shared belief in the transformative power of education and technology for blind and low-vision individuals.
A Shared Vision, A Shared Promise
The idea for the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) was born from countless conversations with John about the gaps we saw in accessibility education. He often spoke about the need for a centralized, reliable platform where students could find skilled access educators to guide them through the complexities of assistive technology. For John, this wasn’t just a professional interest — it was his life’s work.
When John and I began laying the foundation for the ODE, I saw firsthand his dedication and depth of knowledge. He brought years of experience as a trainer and advocate, and his insights became the cornerstone of the directory’s design. Tragically, John’s passing left a void that was difficult to fill, but it also gave me a profound sense of responsibility.
Before John left us, I made a promise: I would do everything in my power to bring the ODE to life. This project would not only reflect his vision, it would also serve as a lasting tribute to his legacy.
A Gift of Love And Commitment
Fulfilling that promise has been a deeply emotional journey for me. Though many offered to help, I have chosen to finance the development of the Vision Tech Academy website myself, as a testament to just how much this project means to me. It’s not just a technical endeavor; it’s a personal labor of love — a final, parting gift to John, the accessibility community, and every learner who seeks independence through knowledge.
The directory is designed to be free for students because education should never be out of reach for those who need it most. To sustain the platform, we’ve developed premium profiles for educators, ensuring that they can showcase their expertise while keeping the system financially viable. It’s a delicate balance, but one that aligns with John’s belief in making education as accessible as possible.
Through the ODE, I hope to empower educators and students alike, fostering a community that thrives on shared knowledge and opportunity. Every feature of the directory is a reflection of the commitment John and I shared — to make access education a reality for all.
For me, this project is more than just a directory. It is a tribute to the spirit of collaboration and the enduring power of dreams shared between friends. It is a way to honor John and to ensure his passion for education continues to inspire generations to come. This is my promise, my mission, and my gift to a community that has given me so much.
Introducing the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE)
At the heart of Vision Tech Academy is a commitment to bridging the gap between accessibility and education. The Online Directory of Educators (ODE) is a simple, transformative tool designed to connect blind and low-vision students with skilled access educators from around the world. Born from a shared vision with my late friend and collaborator John Panarese, the ODE is a testament to the belief that education is a cornerstone of independence and empowerment.
The mission of the ODE is simple, yet profound: to create a centralized, user-friendly resource that fosters learning and independence through accessible education. Whether a student is just beginning their journey with assistive technology, or seeking to refine their skills, the ODE serves as a consistent gateway to trusted access educators ready to provide the guidance they need.
Connecting Students and Educators
The ODE is built on the principle of inclusivity, offering free access to all students. This ensures that learning opportunities are never limited by financial constraints. By leveraging the platform, students can find educators with expertise in tools like JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver, enabling them to unlock the full potential of these assistive technologies.
Educators, in turn, benefit from a platform that allows them to showcase their skills, connect with students, and contribute to a growing network of accessibility champions. Again, the ODE is not just a directory — it’s a community united by a shared passion for making education accessible and impactful.
Key Features of the ODE
- Free General Profiles for All Access Educators: All access educators can list themselves in the ODE for free, ensuring a broad and diverse range of options for students. These profiles provide the basic information required to connect students with trusted access educators based on their needs and expertise.
- Premium Profiles for Enhanced Visibility: For access educators who wish to stand out, the ODE offers premium profiles for just $10 per month or $100 per year. These profiles include comprehensive details such as contact information, specialties, languages spoken, availability schedules, and even video introductions. Premium profiles are prominently displayed and promoted, providing Premium Educators with enhanced visibility, weekly traffic and priority placement in search results.
- Integration with Assistive Tools: The directory emphasizes tools integral to independent learning, such as JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver. Educators specializing in these areas can highlight their expertise, making it easier for students to find instructors who align with their needs.
- Searchable and Accessible Design: The ODE is meticulously designed to ensure accessibility, allowing users to search by keywords, specialties, or tools. This user-friendly interface ensures that students can find the right match quickly and efficiently.
- Educator-Driven Sustainability: Premium Educator Profiles will be used to sustain the platform and support its ongoing maintenance. Premium Profiles may also be purchased as a gift. This model not only keeps the directory free for students, it also empowers educators to invest in their professional growth.
A Hub for Inclusive Education
The Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) is more than just a platform — it’s a movement. It embodies the belief that knowledge should be accessible to all, regardless of ability. By connecting students with trusted access educators, we’re building a foundation for lifelong learning, independence, and opportunity.
As this initiative takes shape, I am reminded of John’s unwavering belief in the power of education. The ODE is a tribute to his vision and a resource that will empower countless individuals for years to come. Together, we can create a world where accessible education is not just a possibility, but a reality.
The Role of Aaron Di Blasi: A Visionary Partner in Sustainability
The journey to bring the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) to life has been one of collaboration and dedication. One of the key individuals who have made this project possible is Aaron Di Blasi, PMP, a trusted partner whose expertise and strategic thinking have been invaluable in shaping the ODE’s design, development and sustainability model.
Aaron is a seasoned professional with more than 25 years of experience in technology, engineering, journalism, digital marketing and access advocacy. As the founder of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., and an accomplished Project Management Professional who manages his own team of PMPs, Aaron has a proven track record of creating innovative, cost-effective solutions to complex challenges.
A Strategic Vision for Sustainability
When I envisioned the ODE, I knew it was essential to create a platform that would remain free for students while ensuring long-term viability. Aaron stepped in as a collaborator and strategist, helping to design a monetization model that aligns with our mission of inclusivity and accessibility.
Aaron’s approach was both practical and visionary. He proposed the introduction of Premium Educator Profiles — an option that allows educators to enhance their presence within the directory while providing a small stream of revenue to support its ongoing maintenance. This solution not only ensures that the platform remains accessible to students, it also empowers educators to invest in their visibility and reach.
Sustainable Model Development
Under Aaron’s guidance, the ODE was designed to offer two tiers of participation for educators:
- Free General Educator Profiles: These profiles allow educators to list their most basic details at no cost, ensuring that the directory remains free and accessible to all.
- Premium Educator Profiles: For just $10 per month or $100 per year, educators can create detailed profiles that include their full contact information, areas of expertise, and other features to enhance their visibility and connection with students.
Aaron’s model ensures that the cost of Premium Profiles are kept intentionally low. This decision reflects our shared belief that educators should have affordable access to tools that amplify their impact without financial strain.
To reinforce the validity of this belief Aaron made certain that Premium Profiles could also be purchased as gifts, so that students, like myself, who believe strongly in the ability of their teachers, coaches and mentors, can share that expertise with the world. Even if the educator themselves cannot afford it.
Maximizing Reach and Effectiveness
Aaron also introduced innovative ways to maximize the directory’s reach. By integrating Premium Educator Profiles with targeted marketing efforts like an Access Information News Sponsorship Package, the ODE offers educators the opportunity to connect with a global audience of students (30K+ per week as of this writing) seeking guidance in assistive technology, at a fraction of the cost.
Additionally, the directory will benefit from Aaron’s extensive network and ongoing experience in digital content strategy, ensuring that it remains optimized, relevant, user-friendly, and accessible.
A Commitment to Accessibility Advocacy
Aaron’s contributions to the ODE are rooted in his broader commitment to access advocacy. His impressive work with organizations such as Top Tech Tidbits, Access Information News, AT-Newswire and AI-Weekly have demonstrated his dedication to fostering inclusive communities and amplifying voices within the disability space.
A Partner in Progress
Aaron’s role in the development of the ODE extends far beyond technical or business strategy. His insights, creativity, and unwavering support have been instrumental in transforming this dream into a reality. Together, we have built a platform that embodies our shared vision: to create a sustainable, inclusive resource that empowers both students and educators alike.
As we move forward, Aaron’s partnership continues to inspire confidence in the future of the ODE. His expertise and dedication are a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and a shared commitment to accessibility. For this, I am profoundly grateful.
John Panarese’s Legacy: A Tribute to a Pioneer in Accessibility
The Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) is as much about the future of accessible education as it is about honoring the remarkable legacy of John Panarese. A tireless advocate and educator, John’s contributions to the accessibility landscape are immeasurable, and his impact continues to resonate deeply within the community.
A Lifelong Commitment to Accessibility
John Panarese dedicated his life to breaking barriers in technology for blind and low-vision individuals. As the founder of Mac for the Blind, John created a pioneering platform that offered training and resources for users of Apple products who relied on assistive technology. His work helped countless individuals harness the power of tools like VoiceOver to achieve greater independence in their personal and professional lives, including myself.
John’s expertise was widely recognized, and his influence extended far beyond Mac for the Blind. As an Apple Certified Support Technician and Accessibility Quality Assurance Analyst, he played a key role in shaping Apple’s accessibility initiatives, ensuring that their products were not only innovative, but also inclusive.
John was not just a trainer — he was a visionary. He understood the challenges faced by blind and low-vision individuals and worked tirelessly to address them. Through his teaching, advocacy, and leadership, he helped redefine what accessibility could mean in the digital age.
Carrying Forward John’s Vision
The Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) is a continuation of John’s mission to empower people through education. John believed in the transformative potential of technology and was passionate about creating opportunities for others to succeed. The ODE reflects his unwavering commitment to accessibility, providing a platform where students and educators can connect and thrive.
A Legacy of Inspiration
John’s work touched the lives of countless individuals, many of whom credit him with opening doors they never thought possible.
” John was a mentor in every sense of the word. He didn’t just teach me how to use VoiceOver; he taught me to see its potential as a tool for independence. His patience and expertise were unmatched. ” — Former Student
” What set John apart was his ability to connect with people on a personal level. He understood our struggles because he lived them, and that made his guidance all the more meaningful. ” — Fellow Trainer
Through the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE), John’s spirit of innovation and compassion shall live on. Each connection made through the directory shall serve as a testament to his enduring impact on the accessibility community.
Honoring John’s Legacy
For me, this project is deeply personal. John was not only a collaborator but also a dear friend whose vision and passion continue to inspire me every day. Bringing the ODE to life is my way of honoring his memory and ensuring that his contributions to accessibility are never forgotten.
John’s legacy reminds us of what can be achieved when we work together to create a more inclusive world. Through the ODE, his influence will continue to guide and inspire future generations, lighting the way toward a brighter, more accessible future for all.
The Future of the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE)
As we look toward the future, the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) stands as a promise of empowerment and opportunity.
Website Development
The Vision Tech Academy website has been meticulously crafted to ensure that it meets the highest standards of accessibility, functionality, and user experience. Every detail — from its simple and intuitive navigation, to its robust search capabilities — have been designed with the needs of blind and low-vision users at its core.
However, this endeavor is not one that can be achieved in isolation. Building a resource of this magnitude requires collaboration, and I am calling on the accessibility community, educators, and advocates to join us in bringing this vision to fruition.
Your support — whether through spreading the word, gifting Premium Profiles to your favorite educators, or just offering feedback — is invaluable in shaping the ODE into a tool that serves the community effectively.
Plans for Growth and Sustainability
Looking ahead, the success of the ODE hinges on its ability to grow and adapt to the evolving needs of its users.
These key areas of focus include:
- Expanding the Educator Network: The ODE aims to connect students with a diverse range of access educators from around the globe. By continually expanding the network, we can ensure that students have access to educators with expertise in various assistive technologies, languages, and teaching approaches.
- Fostering Partnerships with Accessibility-Focused Organizations: Collaboration with organizations and companies dedicated to accessibility will be essential in sustaining and enhancing the directory. Partnerships with technology firms, advocacy groups, and educational institutions will help integrate the ODE into the broader accessibility ecosystem.
- Ensuring Financial Sustainability: Premium Educator Profiles will play a vital role in funding the platform’s ongoing maintenance and enhancements. By keeping costs low for educators and offering flexible, no-cost options for participation, the directory remains accessible while ensuring its long-term viability.
A Vision for Tomorrow
The future of the ODE is filled with promise. By building a platform that bridges gaps and fosters connections, we are creating a foundation for lasting change. This project is not just about providing access to education — it’s about creating a community where students and educators can thrive together.
As we continue this journey, I invite you to join us. Whether you’re an educator, a student, or an advocate, your voice and contributions matter. Together, we can ensure that the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) becomes a beacon of hope and empowerment for generations to come.
The road ahead is bright, and with your support, the ODE will not only meet its goals but surpass them, delivering on the promise of accessible education for all.
A Call to Action and a Tribute to John Panarese
As I bring this message to a close, I am filled with a profound sense of purpose and gratitude. The Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) is more than just a project to me — it is a reflection of my life’s work, my values, and my promise to honor the legacy of my dear friend and collaborator, John Panarese.
John was a trailblazer in the accessibility community, and his unwavering belief in the power of education continues to inspire me every day. Through his work with Mac for the Blind and his commitment to helping others harness the potential of assistive technology, he touched countless lives. It is my deepest hope that the ODE will carry his vision forward, creating opportunities for students and educators alike to connect, learn, and grow.
This project is not something I could achieve alone. It is built on collaboration and a shared commitment to accessibility. Today, I am asking you — the educators, advocates, and members of the accessibility community — to join me in making the ODE a success.
To the Educators: Your expertise and passion are the cornerstone of this directory. By listing your services, you are not only expanding your reach but also empowering students to achieve independence and confidence through learning.
To the Advocates: Education is a powerful force — it breaks barriers, fosters independence, and unlocks potential. When we collaborate, we create a world where accessible education is not a privilege but a right. The ODE is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared vision.
To the Community: Your support is invaluable. Spread the word about the ODE, encourage your favorite educators to participate, gift them a Premium Profile, or offer your insights to help us improve and grow this resource.
In memory of John Panarese and in service to the community he loved, I invite you to be part of this journey. Let us honor his legacy by continuing his mission to empower people through education, ensuring that every learner has access to the tools and support they need to succeed.
Together, we can ensure that the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) becomes a lasting beacon of accessibility, inclusion, and opportunity.
With gratitude and hope,
— Donna J. Jodhan, LLB, ACSP, MBA
Author: Donna J. Jodhan, LLB, ACSP, MBA
Title: Award Winning Blind Advocate, Author and Accessibility Specialist, Donna Jodhan, Founder, Barrier Free Canada, Founder, Access Park, Founder, Vision Tech Academy.
Email: do...@donnajodhan.com 📧️
Phone: +1 (416) 491-7711 📱️
About: Donna J. Jodhan is a renowned advocate, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to advancing accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. As a legal professional, she led a landmark case that set new standards for digital accessibility in Canada and played a pivotal role in the development of the Accessible Canada Act. Donna is also a sight loss coach, podcast host, and founder of Access Park, a global online marketplace whose mission is to connect assistive technology buyers and sellers around the world. Through her diverse initiatives, Donna continues to inspire, support and educate others, championing a world where accessibility is a reality for all.