Center Director Speaks at National Convention for the Blind

	Shown on visual sceen, Diaz addresses audience at NFB convention

Goddard's A.V. Diaz was a keynote speaker at the annual National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Convention on July 1 in Louisville, Ky. His invitation to speak is the result of NASA's new collaboration with the NFB, aimed at encouraging the blind to consider entering scientific and mathematical fields.

"Together with the National Federation of the Blind, we hope to inspire blind youth to consider opportunities in science and engineering and to engage blind and visually impaired individuals in the Nation's space program by using the excitement of NASA information," said Diaz.

The convention, to be held from June 28-July 4, will be the largest assembly of any organization of disabled people to meet this year. An anticipated 3,000 people will attend, coming from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and over 15 foreign countries. Those at the convention will have the opportunity to talk to blind role models, attend informative meetings and learn about current developments that are improving life for the blind.

For the complete article on the NFB convention, go to: http://www.gsfc.nasa.gov/news-release/releases/2003/03-68.htm