Disability Inclusion Myths: Busted! What Every Employer Needs to Know
Discover how disability inclusion boosts business performance by debunking myths, driving innovation, and creating workplaces where everyone thrives.
Join us for a powerful webinar that challenges outdated myths about employees with disabilities and explores the real business value of inclusion. Featuring voices from inclusive employers and workplace accessibility experts, this session will tackle the misconceptions that too often hold companies back – like concerns around productivity, cost, and legal risk. In reality, research shows that employees with disabilities perform as well as or better than their peers, with added strengths in problem-solving, adaptability, and loyalty.
Our panel will highlight how embracing disability inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s a strategic advantage. From low-cost accommodations to tech-driven accessibility and stronger workforce engagement, we’ll show how inclusive hiring leads to measurable gains in productivity, team morale, and brand reputation.
We’ll also discuss the nuances of inclusive leadership, legal compliance, and removing systemic barriers to work. Speakers will offer actionable insights into aligning business performance with equity and accessibility – creating workplaces where everyone thrives. By the end, attendees will walk away equipped to shift mindsets, debunk bias, and build more productive, inclusive organizations.
Attendees will gain insights around:
- Debunking Disability Myths: Clear up common misconceptions about cost, productivity, and legal risk related to employees with disabilities.
- Inclusion as a Competitive Advantage: Learn how inclusive hiring drives performance, innovation, and brand reputation.
- Low-Cost Accessibility Wins: Discover simple, affordable accommodations and tech solutions that boost workplace engagement.
- Leadership That Drives Equity: Explore how inclusive leadership can break down systemic barriers and foster thriving teams.
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Ron Fish
Global Talent Acquisition Leader
Ivanti
Ron Fish, a seasoned talent acquisition expert and thought leader, currently heads talent acquisition at Ivanti, a global software company. Inspired by family members with disabilities, he is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. He champions disability inclusion and leads accessibility initiatives, promoting a hiring process that welcomes individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. Ron’s efforts have been recognized with the 2024 Golden Key Award from the Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, and the HR Standout Award at the 2024 Carolina HR Summit.
Mike Jordan
ServiceNow Consultant
Spitfire Technical Services
Mike Jordan is a seasoned ServiceNow Consultant with over 25 years in IT and 7+ years specializing in ServiceNow development, integration, and administration. He holds certifications as a ServiceNow Administrator, Application Developer, and Instructor. During that career he's always focused on education and mentorship of others. He recently began a side hobby of performing stand up comedy where he speaks about what it's like to live with a disability.
Darelyn Pazdel
Vice President of Workforce Inclusion
PRIDE Industries
Darelyn Pazdel is Vice President of Workforce Inclusion at PRIDE Industries, a 4,000 employee-strong social enterprise that offers exceptional business services with a mission to create employment for people with disabilities. Darelyn and her team recruit, hire, train, and support the 1,896 employees with disabilities at PRIDE industries and hundreds hundreds more with the company's employment partner network. She writes and speaks frequently to advocate for disability employment and to help businesses understand and experience the benefits of engaging this workforce. Her advocacy for people with disabilities was recognized by Congressperson John Garamendi, who named her Woman of the Year in 2022.
Paul Meyer
Accessibility Analyst
Fable
Paul Meyer is a seasoned advocate for equity and inclusion, bringing over 16 years of experience collaborating with HR and Talent Acquisition teams. He has created ERG programs, shaped inclusive hiring practices, and championed (disability) inclusion across major organizations. By using strong focus on education and empathy, Paul empowers workplaces to be accessible and supportive for all. An award-winning contributor and published voice on LinkedIn, he shares actionable insights to help HR professionals better serve candidates and employees with disabilities. Paul is currently exploring new opportunities in HR, TA, and People & Culture, where he brings over five years of direct experience.