In this powerful episode, hosts Kelvin Crosby and Chris Maher sit down with AnnMarie Killian, CEO of TDIforAccess, to explore her personal journey as a deaf woman and longtime advocate for accessibility and inclusion. AnnMarie shares her experience growing up in a hearing family, discovering American Sign Language later in life, and the challenges and triumphs that shaped her leadership.

The conversation covers:

• The richness of Deaf culture and identity
• Navigating communication and relationships as a deaf individual
• The importance of universal design that benefits everyone
• How lived experience drives policy and innovation
• TDI’s bipartisan advocacy work on major initiatives like CVTA and NG911
• The need for cross-disability collaboration to create more inclusive technology and infrastructure

AnnMarie also previews the upcoming Wawability Summit, celebrating the 35th anniversary of the ADA with performances and panels that spotlight disability talent, leadership, and innovation.

This episode is a celebration of resilience, representation, and the power of community to drive systemic change.

Links & Resources:

AnnMarie Killian: LinkedIn

TDIforAccess: Website

Wawability Summit: Website

COMING SOON!

American Sign Language (ASL) and Captioning for each episode will be provided on our YouTube channel. Go to handle @SamaritanPartners.