Koni Sims
2000 S. Grange Ave.
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
(605) 941-9512
Email: koni.l.sims@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/koni.raapsims
https://www.linkedin.com/in/koni-sims
1. Hello ACB family, my name is Koni Sims. I have been married to my wonderful husband Seth for thirty-eight years, and we live in Sioux Falls, SD. I am running for the position of 2nd Vice President for the American Council of the Blind (ACB). Currently, I serve as the Past President of the South Dakota Association of the Blind (SDAB). My parents taught me as a child how to be an advocate for myself and others. Applying these lessons, I received the Governor’s award for Outstanding Citizen with a Disability in 2017, and SDAB awarded me the Gus Zachte award for Outstanding Service in 2018. Both awards were presented in recognition of the advocacy work I have done for the state of South Dakota. In 2020, I was honored with the JP Morgan Chase award by ACB.
I am a retired Medical Massage Practitioner and Certified Lymphedema Technician. I have worked for various chiropractors and have been self-employed. I was hired by Sanford USD Medical Center and Hospital to develop and manage a massage program there. My interest in the medical field has always driven me to continue learning to better assist my clients and collaborate with medical professionals.
Since 2021, I have served on the ACB Board of Directors. This year, I am asking for your vote to fill the position of 2nd Vice President of ACB. I currently serve as Co-Chair of several committees, including ACB’s Get Up and Get Moving, ACB’s Awards, and Transportation. Additionally, I act as Communications and Outreach Specialist for the Voting Task Force 5.0. I aim to serve all members and wish to continue my service as 2nd Vice President.
2. As a member of ACB since 1984, I have participated on various boards and committees at local, state, and national levels. Currently, I serve as a Board of Director for ACB and co-chair several committees, including Get Up and Get Moving, Awards, and Transportation. Additionally, I support the Voting Task Force 5.0 by assisting in educating members about voting, Resolutions, and Constitution and Bylaws. My involvement with the Advocacy Steering Committee aims to assist ACB with their advocacy efforts. Three years ago, I was appointed to represent ACB on the American National Standards Institute (ANSI A117.1). Due to my work on ANSI, stakeholders from other industries requested my testimony at the International Building Code Hearings (IBC) regarding issues affecting blind and low vision individuals. In 2023, I was appointed to represent ACB on IBC. As a board liaison to six affiliates, I provide guidance, advice, and attend meetings. One affiliate describes me as fair and possessing a balanced perspective, with the ability to consider multiple viewpoints. My expertise includes identifying areas for compromise. I demonstrate a high level of commitment and availability, ensuring thorough follow-up and follow-through on all matters.
I have served on the board and as President for SDAB, currently holding the position of Past President. My roles within SDAB include various positions at both state and local levels. I also serve on the Sioux Falls Pedestrian Advisory Committee, and in 2023, I was appointed to the Active Transportation Board (ATB) by the mayor.
My involvement in these tasks has allowed me to collaborate with local, state, and national leaders. Throughout my tenure in ACB, I have built connections across different levels to promote greater accessibility and opportunities for blind and low vision individuals.
3. One of the pressing challenges facing ACB today is ensuring meaningful inclusion for all within the organization. As the 2nd Vice President, my goal is to bridge the gap between leadership and members, while upholding ACB’s core values. It is essential to recognize that everyone possesses unique strengths and abilities, and to foster an environment where flexibility, collaboration, and mutual respect prevail, even amidst differing opinions on operational matters.
My involvement with the Voting Task Force 5.0 has provided me with the opportunity to assist affiliate leaders and members in implementing inclusive voting practices, thereby promoting equity and engagement through practical tools and resources. I aim to apply this inclusive, hands-on approach across ACB’s initiatives, fostering a deeper sense of connection and shared purpose.
I want to continue representing the rural community on the board. Addressing the needs of this population is crucial, as rural accessibility issues differ significantly from urban solutions, such as broadband and telephone access, as well as sidewalk and intersection design.
The Health and Wellness initiative introduced by ACB is a passion of mine, as is ensuring that these reach rural communities like mine on a practical level. With a lifelong commitment to educating others on long-term health and wellness habits, I strive to enhance the impact of these initiatives with my advocacy.
Lastly, transparency and communication are fundamental. I will work diligently to ensure members are consistently informed about ACB’s projects, goals, and areas of interest. When members are well-informed, they are empowered to engage more fully and contribute positively to our community's growth.