Salt Lake City—Comcast is proud to partner with The Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (USDB), and the National Federation of the Blind of UTAH (NFB of Utah), to bring nationally recognized tactile graphics and linguistics expert Lindsay Yazzolino to Utah.

Ms. Yazzolino will keynote and facilitate a hands-on activity for USDB students Wed., April 10, 2024, at 12:30 p.m., at 1655 E. 3300 South, Salt Lake City.

A professor, consultant, and leading figure in tactile graphics and accessibility, Yazzolino is actively involved in NASA’s groundbreaking program Astro Access. This initiative integrates individuals with disabilities into the U.S. astronaut program. Yazzolino is one of only 12 people selected for this program and has been instrumental in enhancing accessibility within NASA’s space exploration endeavors. Her work focuses on incorporating tactile information, digital mapping, and other innovations to make space missions more inclusive for all.

“We look forward to welcoming Lindsay Yazzolino to Utah and sharing her expertise with our students,” said Susan Patten, USDB Associate Superintendent. “Her accomplishments in the field of tactile graphics and her involvement in Astro Access are truly inspiring. This event will provide attendees with valuable insights into the world of accessibility and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.”

During the event, Yazzolino will engage with students who are blind or have low vision at USDB, revealing insights into her NASA collaboration. Furthermore, she will provide an interactive experience, offering a hands-on experience of the cutting-edge Braille Monarch technology, a next-generation tactile graphics device not yet public that gives students with unique needs faster and more equitable access to educational materials.

“The Utah Federation of the Blind is committed to empowering blind individuals and fostering a more inclusive society,” said Everette Beacon, president, of National Federation of the Blind of Utah. “We are very fortunate to have Lindsay interact with students because her work perfectly embodies this mission, and we are honored to partner in bringing her to Utah.”

Yazzolino will deliver the keynote address to the student body, highlighting her journey of struggles and successes as a person who is blind person today.

“Having attended Space Camp this past year, I am really excited to hear Lindsay Yazzolino talk about how she is teaming with NASA to make space more accessible,” said Dillon Dodge, a student at USDB.

“At Comcast, we are dedicated to connecting people to the possibilities of technology,” said Lori Samuels, Comcast NBCUniversal’s Senior Director of Accessibility. “We work to ensure that everyone has equal access to information and opportunity. Lindsay’s work aligns perfectly with our values, and we are proud to sponsor this event for all individuals who are blind in Utah.”

This event signifies a remarkable collaboration between educational institutions, advocacy groups, and corporate entities, highlighting the commitment to fostering inclusive and empowering educational experiences for students with visual impairments.

For more information, please visit www.usdb.org.

About USDB 

Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (USDB) educates students who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Blind, or Deafblind so they can achieve their full academic, social, and career potential. USDB leads the way as a national model in providing the most responsive, caring, and innovative approach possible to meet the unique educational needs of our students. To learn more visit www.usdb.org. 

About the National Federation of the Blind of Utah

The National Federation of the Blind of Utah is a grassroots organization committed to advocating for the rights and needs of blind individuals across Utah. Through education, outreach, and legislative initiatives, the organization works tirelessly to promote equality, independence, and opportunities for blind individuals. Visit www.nfbutah.org.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.

Media Contacts:

Everette Bacon, 801.631.8108, [email protected]

Deneiva Knight, 520-345-9792, [email protected]

Susan Thomas, 801.889.6964 [email protected]