ESU Backup Insider

Maxwell Orland faced every obstacle in his life by telling himself two words: “I can.” Orland, an award-winning sales associate at Vineyard Vines in Boston, grew up with a speech disability. Throughout high school, he wanted nothing more than to have a “typical” college experience. Orland received an Advanced Certificate in sports management from the University of Delaware and landed his dream internship with the Boston Red Sox when he was in college. On April 22, Orland will share his story at East Stroudsburg University as a part of a conference titled “Through Their Eyes.”

In its 18th year, the conference hosts speakers who have overcome attitudinal, physical or cultural barriers. Joining Orland will be Lydia Brown, an activist, writer and speaker who was diagnosed with Autism at a young age and Jim Conroy, director of the Center for Outcome Analysis and former professor at Temple University’s Institute on Disabilities, who dedicated his life to focus on relationships, the freedom to choose living situations and breaking the cycle of poverty.

The conference, which will be held at ESU’s Innovation Center, 562 Independence Road, East Stroudsburg, from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., aims to give those in attendance a personal perspective from people with disabilities that is unique, according to Domenico Cavaiuolo, Ph.D., professor of special education and rehabilitation.

“It is intended to provide the audience with an understanding that people with disabilities can accomplish great things despite their challenges,” he said.

The conference is open to the public and it is free of charge. For more information contact Dr. Cavaiuolo at 570-422-3893, or dcavaiuolo@esu.edu.