USH2026 Call for Presentations

The Usher Syndrome Coalition is inviting speaker abstracts for evidence-based presentations at the USH Connections Conference, scheduled for July 17-19, 2026, at the Radisson Blu at Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Potential topics for evidence-based, emerging, or best practices presentations include, but are not limited to:

• Science and Research Updates
• Assistive Technology
• Social and Emotional Support
• Advocacy
• Other Resources

The USH Connections Conference is hosted by the Usher Syndrome Coalition and is the largest gathering of the global Usher syndrome community. Attendees usually fall into three groups: about one-third are parents of children with Usher syndrome, one-third are adults living with Usher syndrome, and one-third are professionals, clinicians, and researchers who support the community. This event provides an invaluable opportunity to learn about Usher-specific research, developing treatments, and support resources from leaders in many fields, while connecting with hundreds of affected individuals, their families, and professionals serving the deafblind community. 

Presentation Abstract Submission Form and Guidelines
All abstracts must be completed and submitted no later than March 31, 2026. 
Submission of an abstract does not guarantee an invitation to present.

Abstracts will be reviewed by the USH2026 organizing committee. Invitations to present will be emailed no later than April 15, 2026.

PRESENTER RESPONSIBILITIES (Please read carefully):

• Presenters agree to present in English or ASL at a moderate pace to allow access to all audience members. Your presentation will be translated in real time via visual and tactile sign language interpreters and CART transcribers.
• Any slides included in a presentation must be described during the presentation for non-visual audience members.
• Invited speakers will have their registration fees waived.
• Up to two nights of hotel accommodations (July 17 and 18) will be provided at no cost to speakers by the Usher Syndrome Coalition at the conference venue.
• Presenters are responsible for their own travel arrangements.
• Presenters do not receive a stipend from the Usher Syndrome Coalition.
• Presentations that market specific products and services are not acceptable for this forum. If you have a product or service to showcase, we welcome your inquiries about our Sponsor and Exhibitor opportunities. 
• Send your PPT (MUST USE PPT template) to k.vasi@usher-syndrome.org by June 15, 2026 – it will be forwarded to the interpreters and CART captioners so that they may familiarize themselves with names and terminology in preparation for providing access to the presentations.

If you have questions, please email Krista at k.vasi@usher-syndrome.org or call 1-800-946-9203.

Thank you for your interest in presenting at the USH2026 Connections Conference. We look forward to reviewing your proposal.