The 2025 MegaConference will feature a new component: an Adult Self Advocate Track. This is an opportunity for adults (18 years or older) who are interested in learning about self-advocacy and who want to connect with their peers across the state. This is a chance to learn from each other and start a self-advocacy movement in Mississippi. We are accepting 20 individuals for this initial group. If you would like to apply to participate in the conference, you will need to submit a separate application. For more information and to get the application, please email the Self-Advocate Conference Director, Kim Duffy, at kim@arcms.org.
If you qualify and would like to attend the self-advocate track of the MegaConference, you will not register for both the conference and the self-advocacy program - you must pick ONE.
(Please note: the self-advocate conference is NOT respite care. If an attendee needs individualized care or assistance with toileting, they must be accompanied by a support person.)
Registration
Registration opens April 1. For application instructions, please email the Self-Advocate Conference Director, Kim Duffy, at kim@arcms.org.
Agenda
MISSISSIPPI DISABILTY MEGACONFERENCE SELF-ADVOCATE TRACK AGENDA
JUNE 12 & 13, 2025
JACKSON HILTON HOTEL
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
7:30 – 4:30 – Registration (Separate packet provided)
7:30 – 8:30 Breakfast
8:30 – 10:00 – Welcome in Grand Ballroom
Keynote Speaker – Cody Clark magic show
10:00 – 10:30 – Break
(Self-advocate participants and volunteers go to the Penthouse for the
remainder of the day)
10:30 – 11:45 – 1st Session
- Table assignments and icebreaker activities
- Introductions of participants
- Why are you here and what do you want from the conference.
11:45 – 12:30 – Lunch/break
12:30 – 1:15 – 2nd Session
Nothing About Me With Out Me: Decision making- rights and needed
supports – Kim Duffy
1:15 – 1:45 – 3rd Session
Your Vote Matters – Michelle Bishop
1:45 – 2:00 – Break
2:00 – 3:00 – 4th Session
The Magic of Self-Advocacy – Cody Clark
3:00 – 4:00 – POWER - LIFE of MS
Dinner on your Own
6:00 – 9:00 – Gala in Grand Ballroom
FRIDAY, JUNE 13, 2025
7:30 – Breakfast with full conference
8:00 – 8:30 – Check-in at Penthouse
8:30 – 10:15 – 5th Session:
Self-Advocate table skits/presentations
10:15 – 10:30 – Break
10:30 – 11:55 – Closing session in Grand Ballroom with full Conference:
The State of the State – Agency Directors
11:55 – 12:00 – Evaluations & Final Door Prize
