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2011 Conference

AHEAD 2011: Sustainable Access Through Partnership The 34th Conference of the Association on Higher Education And Disability July 11-16, 2011 The Washington Convention Center Seattle, Washington, USA Convention Site: The Washington Convention Center Convention Hotel: The Sheraton Seattle Hotel

Hello 2011 AHEAD Conference Attendees. The “Emerald City” is excited to welcome you in July 2011 for the 34th Annual AHEAD Conference in Seattle, Washington!

Seattle invites you to explore two cities in one. Here you’ll find a vibrant, sophisticated metropolis surrounded by pristine natural beauty and abundant recreation. The “Emerald City” lies on a narrow strip of land between the salt waters of Puget Sound and the fresh waters of Lake Washington. Beyond the waters lie two rugged mountain ranges, the Olympics to the west and the Cascades to the east. It is a city built on hills and around water, with a mild marine climate. Upon your arrival this July you will be able to visit our famous Pike Place Market flying fish, take in a breathtaking view of the city atop the iconic Space Needle, consume a latte at the original Starbucks and enjoy a world-famous Fran’s sea salt caramel.

This year’s conference rivals the setting in excitement as we focus on “Sustainable Access Through Partnership.” The conference organizers have created a fabulous selection of sessions for all attendees, inspiring and knowledgeable keynotes, and a special awards luncheon retrospective on the “10 Years Post Bartlett.” Tuesday evening’s Welcome Reception will be a grand kick-off to the conference and a great time to reconnect with your colleagues, meet new members, and enjoy the sweet and savory cuisine of Seattle. Other events include the special Wednesday afternoon Exhibit Hall Grand Opening celebration and the annual evening favorite: the President’s Reception.

The 2011 AHEAD Conference will take place at the exciting Washington State Convention Center, located in the heart of Seattle. Within a short distance of the Center many exciting adventures await you. There are museums, art galleries, theaters, parks, nightclubs, shopping and much more to explore and that is just downtown! One of the unique things Seattle is known for is its eclectic and vibrant neighborhoods scene. So gather a group of new or old friends and set off to explore “The Troll” in the Bohemian destination of Fremont, enjoy the oasis within the city at Green Lake, travel to Fisherman’s Wharf in Ballard to catch a glimpse of Deadliest Catch ships, or grab a staple Seattle meal at Spud’s Fish and Chips while exploring the beaches of West Seattle.

Thursday evening the Local Conference Committee is putting together a quintessential Northwest experience that should not be missed (www.tillicumvillage.com). Participants will be taken to the Seattle waterfront to board a ferry that will cruise to a local island for a traditional salmon bake, North West Coast Indian Style. While on the island one can explore the pristine beaches, forested trails and a gallery of local artwork. The evening will conclude with a “spellbinding performance of Dance on the Wind, featuring dances in the spirit of coastal tribes.”

If you are staying over the weekend and want to plan a one-day excursion, Seattle offers quick, easy access to a wide variety of attractions. For great trip ideas, check out www.experiencewa.com. For those already worried about having to pack the rain jacket or umbrella, July is actually the driest and warmest month in Seattle! So pack light and get ready for some great Northwest adventures!

We look forward to creating new partnerships with each of you at the 2011 AHEAD conference.

Bree Callahan and Rob Harden
Your 2011 Local Conference Committee Co-Chairs
www.VisitSeattle.org
www.Seattle.Gov
www.tillicumvillage.com

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