Disability & Arts Webinars
A series presented by the SCAC & Able South Carolina
Everybody who seeks to engage with the arts should be able to experience and enjoy them. However, for those with disabilities, physical and online spaces are often inaccessible and even unwelcoming.
The SCAC believes that when you know better you can do better. To that end, along with our partners Able South Carolina, we are presenting an informative webinar series designed for arts organizations around topics of accessibility for people with disabilities. Able SC is a consumer-controlled, community-based, cross-disability nonprofit that seeks to make South Carolina a national model of equity and inclusion for all people with disabilities. Learn more about Able SC on their website.
The 2026/2027 Series
- Continuing the successful “Lunch & Learn” format with sessions from noon-1 p.m. on Zoom.
- A mix of national disability experts and South Carolina accessibility champions will be the hosts of the webinars.
- Advance registration is required using the links in each webinar description.
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How S.C. arts orgs present disability-focused events, including sensory-friendly performances.
Join a conversation with two South Carolina organizations that are expanding access to the arts through intentional accessibility initiatives. Learn how they have embedded accessibility into their programs, services, and organizational practices to create more inclusive experiences for all. Through their stories, lessons learned, and practical strategies, participants will gain ideas and inspiration for advancing accessibility within their own organizations and communities.
Register
Presenters
Susan Cafferty is the director of education and community engagement for the South Carolina Philharmonic, where she leads education programs, youth orchestras, and community partnerships that expand access to live music. A retired educator, National Board-Certified Teacher, and lifelong advocate for accessibility and inclusion, Susan brings both professional expertise and personal experience as the parent of a child with multiple disabilities to her work creating welcoming arts experiences for all.
Laura Ybarra-Kane began her museum journey as a volunteer at the South Carolina State Museum while studying anthropology and education at the University of South Carolina. She has dedicated more than 20 years to creating meaningful learning experiences for children, families, educators, and communities across the state and is passionate about making museums welcoming and accessible for all visitors. As manager of education and experiences, she leads the museum’s efforts in school programming, camps, teacher professional development, outreach initiatives, educational partnerships, and accessibility. A firm believer in the power of wonder, she hopes everyone leaves the museum inspired to discover more about their world—and beyond!
Ellice is the founder, executive director, and artistic director of Abilities Dance, a Boston-based dance company that champions disability representation and inclusion in the arts. A nationally recognized choreographer, educator, and accessibility advocate, she has led award-winning initiatives that expand access to the arts and public spaces. Ellice serves on the Massachusetts Cultural Council Board and has presented lectures and workshops for organizations including Harvard University, Boston University, and Fidelity Investments. Her work has been recognized with numerous honors for leadership, advocacy, and advancing equity and accessibility in the arts.Past webinars on YouTube
I’m here to help!
For assistance and information, please contact Arts Learning & Accessibility Director Amanda Noyes (803.734.8675 | anoyes@arts.sc.gov).