by Katie Frederick
ACB’s Board of Directors met in-person and via Zoom March 15. Listen to the full meeting podcast at https://acb-business.pinecast.co/. President Deb Cook Lewis called the meeting to order at 9 a.m. Eastern. All directors and staff were present, except Rachel Schroeder, who had an excused absence. The board had a full agenda of items including reports and policies.
President’s Report
In her report to the board, President Cook Lewis provided updates on several topics. She announced the ACB Leadership list guidelines are undergoing a review. The intent is to ensure better communication and more efficient use of not only the leadership list, but all ACB lists. Deb explained that the leadership list is comprised of members from the ACB Board of Directors, Board of Publications and up to three representatives from state and special-interest affiliates. She is working with affiliate leaders, ensuring the leadership list roster is accurate.
Deb shared changes to the convention affiliate roll call in 2025. The roll call will now take place during the virtual opening ceremony on June 23. This adjustment is necessary since business is conducted before the in-person portion of the conference and convention begins. During the in-person session at the convention, if affiliates wish to make an announcement or donation to ACB, they will be recognized to do so. Also, effective in 2025, the Braille Forum raffle is no more. The decision was made to avoid legal complexities and ensure compliance with state regulations.
She reported to the board that, during executive session, a motion was passed permitting Executive Director Scott Thornhill to telework over the next year. Scott will develop a plan for the board ensuring the Alexandria staff levels and production are maintained.
Executive Director’s Report
Scott Thornhill began by thanking the ACB staff for all they do, helping accomplish the organization’s mission. He provided brief updates about key initiatives and programs, including ongoing advocacy work and the launch of ACB’s Accessibility and Training Services Department. Scott then asked ACB staff to report on their work.
Membership Services and Affiliate Update
Membership Services Coordinator Cindy Hollis reported two special-interest affiliates recently left ACB, Blind Pride International and Visually Impaired Veterans of America. The Palmetto Council of the Blind (South Carolina) was approved as an affiliate one year ago. In 2025, there are potential new affiliations from Montana and another group. The board celebrated a 5.34% increase in membership from 2023 to 2024. Cindy shared some statistics about the ACB Community Program, which celebrated its five-year anniversary in March. Since its inception, the ACB community platform has held over 22,000 events, amassed 56,000+ volunteer hours, and engaged 182 volunteers in the year 2024 alone. Cindy introduced her new team member to the board. Michael Babcock was welcomed as the new Membership Services Administrative Assistant, bringing a focus on automation and efficiency to his role.
Fundraising, Development and Sponsorships
The resource development team reported successes in fundraising, notably raising $37,800 in sponsorships for the D.C. Leadership Conference, a substantial increase from $4,000 last year. They aim to achieve $446,000 in sponsorships for the annual conference and $150,000 for the AD Awards Gala.
Social Media Strategy
Mike Johnson, ACB’s social media/external communications consultant, provided an overview of the social media strategy, emphasizing the use of platforms to raise awareness, advocate for issues, engage with the community, and highlight strategic partners. He highlighted the substantial increase in page views and followers in February across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Advocacy Efforts
Claire Stanley, Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, discussed the legislative imperatives, rule-making processes, and judicial updates that impact ACB and the blind and low vision community. She emphasized the importance of personal stories in advocacy and shared updates on ongoing efforts.
Accessibility and Training Services Coordinator Report
Kolby Garrison provided an update on the Accessibility and Training Services program, which launched in February. The reception has been very positive, and Kolby has been receiving numerous requests related to accessibility issues and individual training.
ACB Media Update
Rick provided insights into ACB Media’s performance, noting an increase in Internet stream usage and old-time radio listenership. He also discussed cost-saving measures and transitioning aging infrastructure to AWS for better efficiency.
Financial Report
Michael Garrett presented the financial summary for 2024, highlighting a total revenue of $2,377,800 and an overall net loss of $135,000. Despite market fluctuations impacting investment gains, ACB is making significant strides in resource development.
ACBES Report
ACBES contributed $463,800 to ACB in 2024, thanks to excellent management of the thrift stores in Amarillo and Lubbock. Both stores are performing well, with Amarillo setting new daily sales records.
Board of Publications Update
Katie Frederick announced the return of the “Member on the Mic” segment on the ACB Voices blog and discussed the upcoming candidates’ forum (in June) and BOP awards due April 1. To nominate someone for Member on the Mic or assist with the interviewing, editing or transcription process, please reach out to Sharon Lovering in the national office.
Policy Update
Koni Sims provided a brief update on the criteria for the Affiliate Outreach Award, which now recognizes both local chapters and affiliates for new outreach programs.
Strategic Plan Approval
Scott Thornhill outlined the strategic plan for the upcoming year, covering various initiatives including organizational health, resource development, IT infrastructure updates, accessibility and training services, and employee hiring and retention. The board approved the plan. The meeting adjourned at approximately 4:50 p.m. Eastern.
Upcoming Meetings
Upcoming meetings this calendar year include a Zoom meeting May 19 at 7 p.m. Eastern, the convention board meeting Friday, July 4, and the fall board meeting October 31-November 1.