College Staff Retreat | "Cones, Rods, and Other Obstacles: A Visual Person with a Visual Impairment" - Chad Parkinson

Description: 

Chad shares his story of being diagnosed with Cone-Rod Dystrophy, a rare visual impairment that has formed his identity. This session will discuss the long road it took towards reclaiming his identity, and the challenges he, his twin brother, and his parents faced as they navigate the unknown. His experiences have nudged him into being an advocate for himself and others as he works toward designing a more accessible world.

Bio: 

Chad Parkinson is a graphic designer who has a passion for creating a more accessible world. Despite having a career that is completely visual, Chad was born with a rare visual impairment known as Cone Rod Dystrophy. His love for design started in high school nearly 13 years ago, designing skateboard graphics, editing videos, and learning the fundamentals of design. As someone whose vision depends on a clear message to get by, he’s learned that the world is full of dysfunctional design that often challenges the user. One of Chad’s mottos is to “enjoy the process”. He takes pride in all the many unique purposes that design offers us and wants to use it for greater good.