Before the formulas and theory, multisensory experiences are the point where science and the senses meet, making STEM
accessible to everyone.
An event where innovation meets inclusion
Open Pathways 4 STEM is an event that focuses on the intersection of innovation and inclusion. It aims to promote the participation of individuals with disabilities in science and technology. The event brings together experts and organizations to discuss eliminating barriers and developing solutions that foster opportunities, innovation, and equity in the STEM fields.
Participants will benefit from conversations covering various topics, including early education, transitions to college and careers, workforce development, policy considerations, and accessible technologies.
Radio Interview
Previous Conference Speakers
Dr. Wanda Díaz Merced
Astrophysicist
Director of the Global Campaign Science in Braille for the Royal Academy of Sciences International Trust
Aarti Sagal
Founder and CEO Synergies Work & Synergies Seed Fund
Joy L. Kennedy, Ph.D.
Senior Research Scientist
La Fuerza STEM
Dr. Carla Luevano Braga
Psychologist
Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Adolescent
Transition Program
Hua Hui Vogel
Co-Founder & Director
FIU Disabled Student Union Bureau
Student at Florida International University
Micah Shippee PhD
Director of Education Solutions
Samsung
Maria Town
President and CEO
AAPD
Ana C. Martinez
Assistant Vice President of Development
Miami Dade College Foundation
Allyson Bieryla
Astronomer
Center for Astrophysics
Harvard & Smithsonian
Martha Betancourt Wong
Mother and Higher Education Administrator within the Division of Student Affairs
FIU
Agatha Caraballo, PhD
Founding Director
Maurice A. Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership
Liz Candelario
Executive Director
Puerto Rico Developmental
Disabilities Council
Katie Cappelen
Project Manager and Business Development Manager
U Can Employ
Analisa Duran Ph.D.
Director of Education
Frost Science Museum
Jamila Evilsizor
Staff Design Researcher
Sam’s Club
Raquell Holmes Ph.D.
Associate Director
EdEon STEM Learning
Sonoma State University
Dr. Abebe Kebede
Member of Science in Braille
Physics Professor
North Carolina Agricultural &
Technical State University
Dewayne Johnson, II
Director of Economic & Social Impact American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
Dr. Maissa Khatib
Researcher, Precision Health Research Initiatives
Arizona State University | College of Health Solutions
Brenda Lampon, MS
Senior Advocate and Engagement Manager
Older Adults, Mental Health and Disabilities
Miami-Dade County
Cecilia Marcano
Vice President of Talent Management
TelevisaUnivision
Irisaida Méndez
Executive Director
Univision Foundation
Massimo Miliano
CVO
Archangel Education & Technology
Michael R. Muesch
Seasoned Software Engineer
Meta
Amanda L. Niguidula, PhD
Director, Disability Resource Center
Florida International University
Mel Ochoa
Chief Operating Officer and a General Partner
Landmark Ventures
Mia Osorno
Human Resources Manager
Andaz Miami Beach
Victor M. Rivera Rivera, Esq.
Member of Science in Braille
Community Law Attorney
Maitreya Shah, Esq.
Technology Policy Director
AAPD
Ruby Taylor
Founder & CEO - Financial Joy School
Co-Founder & CEO - Grean Wealth Inc
Crystal Taylor
Year Up United, Director of Student Services
Darren Touch
Public Policy Manager, Wearables,
US External Affairs
META
Vanessa Y. Vazquez
Mother and Advocate
Vivian Vieta, Ed. D.
Robert Morgan Educational Center &
Technical College
Project TOPS, Program Director
Julia Winter
Pioneered accessible STEM education
CEO and Founder
Alchemie
Discover science with your senses
Listen to renowned astrophysicist Dr. Wanda Díaz Merced explain how the inclusive model that adapts scientific knowledge for young people with disabilities works.
Developed by scientists with disabilities, Physics with the Senses promotes inclusivity in education and is also effective in informal education.
Why is this important?
Open Pathways 4 STEM responds to this urgent need by offering educational, technological, and policy solutions to ensure that STEM is accessible from the classroom to the workforce.
📈 Only 3% of STEM workers have disabilities; many are in part-time, lower-paid roles.
🚧 Students with disabilities want STEM careers but face barriers (labs, courses, accommodations).
🎧 Multisensory tools boost performance by 25% and raise motivation.
👩🏫 Inclusive classrooms benefit all students and collaboration.
🤝 Inclusive organizations drive innovation and a healthier culture.
How we do it?
We are transforming STEM education for students with disabilities through multisensory tools that adapt to their needs.
Robotics
Robótica
Digital
Digital
Tangible
Tangible
How does it work?
We use multisensory methods to create immersive learning, making STEM disciplines accessible to everyone, especially students with disabilities.