Virginia Ability is proud to announce the 2026 Virginia Ability Forum, a dynamic, solutions-focused event designed to help employers, community leaders, and advocates advance inclusive employment for people with disabilities.
Taking place on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, this free forum will bring together experts from across business, law, government, and education for a morning of learning, insight, and connection. Registration and breakfast will begin at 8:30 a.m.
Under the theme Access Granted: Unlocking Opportunity Together, the forum will explore current challenges and emerging opportunities in disability inclusion – equipping attendees with practical strategies they can apply within their own organizations.
Featured Keynote Speakers
The forum will feature two nationally respected keynote speakers who bring deep expertise and real-world perspective on disability inclusion and compliance:
Craig Leen, Partner at K&L Gates, is a nationally recognized leader in equal employment opportunity and disability inclusion. Craig co-leads the firm’s OFCCP and Affirmative Action Compliance practice and previously served as Director of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs at the U.S. Department of Labor. During his tenure, he led record-setting enforcement initiatives and expanded compliance assistance nationwide. Today, Craig advises organizations on equitable hiring, accessibility, and the responsible use of AI in employment. He also serves as President-Elect of the Bar Association of the District of Columbia and teaches Disability Rights Law at George Washington University Law School.
Lindsey Komisin, Partner at IslerDare P.C., advises and defends employers on a wide range of labor and employment law matters, including ADA compliance, workplace investigations, and litigation avoidance. A trusted advisor to HR professionals and executives, Lindsey brings a practical, business-focused approach to navigating complex legal issues while supporting inclusive and compliant workplace practices.
Panel Discussion: Building Inclusive Workplaces
In addition to keynote sessions, attendees will hear from a diverse panel of leaders representing business, education, research, and government. The panel will share real-world insights, challenges, and success stories related to advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.Panelists include:
- Craig Leen, Partner, K&L Gates
- Lindsey Komisin, Partner, IslerDare P.C.
- Jenn McDonough, VCU Rehabilitation Research & Training Center
- Shannon Crooks, Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
- Bethany Raffanello, Principal, Northstar Academy
- Brian Trader, President & CEO, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Together, panelists will explore strategies employers can use to strengthen hiring, retention, and advancement while fostering inclusive workplace cultures.
Join Us
Whether you are an employer, HR professional, community partner, or advocate, the 2026 Virginia Ability Forum offers valuable insights, meaningful connections, and actionable takeaways.
Registration is now open and free to attend. Join us on March 19th as we work together to unlock opportunity and build more inclusive workplaces across Virginia.
Register Today: https://tickets.richmond.com/events/2026-virginia-ability-forum-access-granted-unlocking-opportunities-together-3-19-2026