The 25th International Seating Symposium (ISS) is scheduled on March 11 to 14 at the Buena Vista Hotel Spa and Resort in Orlando, Fla, featuring 70-plus educational sessions, including presentations by many new speakers.

The organizers are planning a celebration on March 13 from 6:30 to 9 pm at the conference hotel, in recognition of the 25th ISS and the investment in creativity and dedication that has helped to advance the field of seating and wheeled mobility. The event includes an introduction and summary of the history of the ISS, followed by a monologue by Josh Blue, headline comedian who has cerebral palsy and  focuses his subjects on disability issues. 

The history makers from Vancouver, Memphis, and Pittsburgh have been invited to attend. Attendees are encouraged to share photos of products, people, and events from the past that can be included in the historical slide show that will run during the cocktail/hors d’oeuvres hour at the beginning of the celebration.
 
The field is experiencing some unprecedented times in light of recent funding and policy changes, but event organizers say one way to move forward is to acknowledge the strong accomplishments worldwide and use the successes to revitalize energy to continue to advance as a field.
 
Funds are being solicited to cover the cost of the celebration event, for space, food, entertainment, and funds to support travel of some of the original founders of the ISS. Sponsorship will includes complimentary passes to the event for sponsors’ employees and other guests:
 
Silver Sponsor—$5,000 (includes 25 complimentary tickets to the event)     
Bronze Sponsor—$1,500 (includes 8 complimentary tickets to the event)
 
In recognition of sponsorship, companies/organizations will be acknowledged in the program and signage, and will be mentioned during the celebration ceremony.

Discuss sponsorship interest by Jan 30 with Mark R. Schmeler, PhD, OTR/L, ATP, director, Continuing Education Program & International Seating Symposium, University of Pittsburgh ((e-mail: [email protected]), or with Linda Szczepanski, CMP, RST Continuing Education administrator (e-mail: [email protected], or call (412) 586-6921).

For more information, visit the Web site.