About Us
Mobility Matters is hosted by Portland State University's Orientation & Mobility (O&M) and Visually Impaired Learning (VIL) Programs which are housed in the College of Education.
O&M Specialists are professionals who teach individuals with visual impairments, including those with deafblindness, how to travel safely, efficiently, and with purpose in a variety of environments. Students in the O&M program gain the professional skills and preparation to complete the international certification exam through the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP).
The O&M program is offered as an extension of PSUs long-standing Visually Impaired Learner program that has been preparing teachers of children with visual impairments (TVIs) to work with school-age children for over 50 years.
For more information about PSU's O&M Program please visit: pdx.edu/education/om
Again, this year we are pleased that The American Printing for the Blind (APH) is helping PSU host this event on its national platform.
Since 1858, The American Printing House for the Blind has operated in Louisville, Kentucky, empowering people who are blind or visually impaired by providing accessible and innovative products, materials, and services for lifelong success. APH’s vision is to help create an accessible world, with opportunity for everyone.
As our nation was forced to adapt to remote learning and virtual instruction in the wake of COVID-19, APH got busy breaking down educational barriers and offering multiple e-learning solutions for parents, students, and professionals by introducing Access Academy, ExCEL Academy, and the APH Hive.
Mobility Matters Hosts
Samantha Stephan
Graduate Student - Portland State University
Leanne Grillot
National Outreach Program for American Printing House for the Blind
Grant Opportunity
PSU's College of Education is currently seeking scholars to enroll in the O&M and/or VIL program and take advantage of a new federal grant opportunity. The Interdisciplinary Distance Educators Advancing Low-Incidence Students (IDEALS) grant will provide tuition support to select scholars and advance the programs around STEM education and distance coaching and consultation.
Read more about the focus of the IDEALS grant, click here.
Request a follow-up call about our programs or IDEALS: PSU O&M or VIL Contact Request
To access the IDEALS grant application, click here.
Please contact Tracy Williams-Murphy by email or phone for additional information.
askcoe@pdx.edu
503 725-8102 (office)
