Voices of Inspiration: Monthly Parks & Rec Speaker Series   Recently updated !

This entry was posted in What's the Buzz - The MSB Blog on by

Exploring Leadership, Innovation, and Inclusion

The Parks & Rec by County Speaker Series brings together thought leaders, innovators, and community changemakers from across the country. Each month, we highlight a speaker whose work inspires, informs, and empowers. From technology pioneers and accessibility advocates to chefs, entrepreneurs, and athletes, this series showcases diverse voices and experiences that enrich our communities.

Join us each month to learn, connect, and engage in powerful conversations that spark new ideas.

Upcoming Speakers

A man in a dark blazer and light blue shirt is smiling while seated in front of a textured gray background, ready to share inspiration as part of the Speaker Series.

September 25 – Greg Stilson (APH)

Greg has been building technology solutions for those who are blind or low vision for nearly 20 years.

His work includes developing products such as the BrailleNote Touch, Trekker Breeze, Brailliant braille displays, and VictorReader devices. At Aira, he led the creation of the Aira app and smart glasses.

In 2020, he joined APH to expand access solutions, culminating in the Monarch tactile display launched in 2024. Based in Madison, WI, Greg is also a blind gamer, sports enthusiast, husband, and father of two.

Register Here »
A simple black user icon with a circular head and shoulders, shown on a white background—perfect for Parks & Rec profiles or Speaker Series event pages.

October 23 – Amir Rahimi (Communications & PR)

Amir works in corporate communications and strategy, traveling extensively to engage and support others. He lives in the DC area and brings valuable insights into leadership, communication, and personal connection.

Register Here »
A man with a short beard and shaved head smiles while wearing a light gray suit, light blue shirt, and tie, standing against a plain off-white background at the Monthly Speaker Series.

November 20 – Chef Ivan Walker (Southern Fusion Catering)

Executive Chef and owner of Southern Fusion Catering, Ivan blends traditional southern cuisine with global techniques. Featured on WKRG’s Take 5 Show and TBN’s Joy in Our Town, Chef Ivan is a passionate advocate, educator, and blind chef who aspires to launch his own cooking show and publish a cookbook.

Register Here »
A woman with long dark hair, wearing a bright orange dress and colorful earrings, sits on a green chair, smiling and touching her hair with one hand. The warm, softly blurred background reflects the inspiration of a speaker series.

January 22 – Catarina Rivera (Blindish Latina)


Catarina is a public speaker, DEIA consultant, and founder of Blindish Latina. With 14+ years of experience, she works with companies to improve disability inclusion and awareness. Diagnosed with a progressive vision disability at 17, Catarina combines professional expertise and personal experience to challenge stigma and foster belonging.

Register Here »
A man with long hair and a beard, wearing a striped shirt, holds a white cane and stands in a rustic room with large arched windows—a true inspiration fit for any Parks & Rec Speaker Series.

February 19 – Joe Strechay (Film & Entertainment)


A television and film producer, Joe is a leading voice in disability inclusion and accessibility in the entertainment industry. He has advised major filmmakers and streaming services, assessed accommodations for actors with disabilities, and actively recruits talent to ensure authentic representation.

Register Here »
A simple black silhouette of a person on a white background, featuring a circular head and rounded shoulders, often used as a generic user profile or avatar icon for speaker series or inspiration events.

March 19 – Gus (Meta)


Gus, who has low vision, brings his experience working at Meta to highlight accessibility, tech culture, and personal growth in the workplace.

Register Here »
A simple black user profile icon on a white background, featuring a circle for the head and a semicircle for the shoulders—perfect for representing Parks & Rec staff or Speaker Series participants.

April 23 – Eileen Rivera Ley (Blind Savvy USA)

An entrepreneur, strategist, and accessibility leader, Eileen founded Blind Savvy USA, creating programs such as Blind Savvy Strengths™ and ACE Academy Online. She has served as a national advocate, advisor, and nonprofit leader. Recognized as Maryland’s Top 100 Women and International Woman of the Year, she continues to transform disability inclusion across industries.

Register Here »
A simple black user icon on a white background, depicting a generic person with a round head and shoulders—perfect for highlighting your Inspiration or promoting upcoming Parks & Rec Speaker Series events.

May 21 – Ethan Kunes (U.S. National Blind Men’s Soccer Team)

Ethan represents the U.S. National Team for Men’s Blind Soccer, sharing his journey in sports, teamwork, and advocacy on and off the field.

Register Here »

Don’t miss these powerful conversations that celebrate leadership, innovation, and inclusion. Register today and join us each month to hear from trailblazers making a difference in their communities and beyond.