Presented by
Hyatt Regency Rochester
Rochester Riverside Convention Center
Join us for an experience to remember where you will meet other people with hearing loss, learn in the most communication accessible environment and enjoy the sights of Rochester: a world of art, theater, music, photography, history, nature and play!
HLAA2019 Convention Program & Exhibit Guide Now Available!
Take a peek at what the convention has in store, including general information, workshop and demo room descriptions, exhibitor list, special events, and more!
Rebecca Alexander, Keynote Speaker
Breathe In Peace, Breathe Out Fear: A Mantra for Self-Acceptance
Opening Session, Thursday, June 20 at 9 a.m.
As a teenager, Rebecca learned that by the age of 30 she would be completely blind and deaf due to a rare genetic disorder called Usher syndrome (type III). How did a diagnosis like this motivate Rebecca not simply to survive but to thrive in the face of unimaginable loss? Rebecca shares her deeply moving and personal journey of loss, resilience, perseverance, and hope that has led her to an illuminated life filled with tremendous meaning, hard work, intimacy, fulfillment, and self-acceptance.
Rebecca Alexander is a psychotherapist, disability rights advocate, group fitness instructor, and extreme athlete. She is also the author of Not Fade Away: A Memoir of Senses Lost and Found. Rebecca has been featured in an array of media outlets including The Today Show, NBC Nightly News, and The Dr Oz Show. Rebecca has been honored with numerous awards including the American Foundation for the Blind Helen Keller Achievement Award, The Disability Rights Advocates’ Eagle Award, NO LIMITS for Deaf Children Spirit of Leadership award, and the University of Michigan’s Bicentennial Award.
The Opening Session is being sponsored by
Exhibit Hall — FREE!
It’s not everyday that you can experience the latest technology and services for people with hearing loss under one roof! The hall is open for free to the public – just pick up a badge at the Convention Registration Desk.
Research Symposium, The Latest on Genetics and Hearing Loss
Special rate to attend Research Symposium only $30. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from world-renowned geneticists who will present the latest research on hearing loss that occurs later in life, and what can be done for families who have inherited the gene. In a rapidly-moving field, much has been accomplished since the last symposium on genetics in 1999. There will also be a Genetics track for workshops that will feature families with known and perceived genetic hearing loss, talking about their experiences, genetic counseling and more.
New Year, New Symposium Format
We are shaking things up next year! Beginning in 2019, the Research Symposium will be two hours with the moderator presenting a 20-minute account of why the topic is relevant to people with hearing loss. The introductory talk will lay the groundwork for the science that will be presented. After a break, the program will move on to three presentations of 20 minutes each followed by a ten-minute Q&A.
Check out the Research Symposium page for more information.
The Latest on Genetics and Hearing Loss is being supported by a grant from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD Award Number R13DC017913) and is sponsored by
Special Events
State and Chapter Awards Ceremony & Reception
Wednesday, June 19
The HLAA State and Chapters are the foundation of HLAA. This ceremony, on Wednesday evening, will highlight those people who have worked tirelessly in their communities to help others with hearing loss. Light fare and refreshments will be available during the State and Chapter Awards Ceremony & Reception.
Get Acquainted Party
Thursday, June 20
Calling all divas! Don’t miss this year’s GAP where you can be part of the glitz, glamour,style, heels and champagne we know as Roaring Hollywood! Who will wear it best on the red carpet? Who are your must-see favorite icons? This is the event to see and be seen—who knows who you might see! You don’t want to miss this so be sure to RSVP for this event on your registration. It is included in the General Package.
The GAP is sponsored by 
Night at the Museum, Off-site Event at the George Eastman Museum
Friday, June 21
The Eastman Museum is an educational institution with a mission to provide leadership in the field of photography and cinema; preserve and develop world-class collections, as well as George Eastman’s estate, a National Historic Landmark; and to serve the Greater Rochester community. Read more about the historic mansion and gardens at eastman.org
Unwind from the day’s Convention activities while you enjoy and explore this amazing property. This event is not included in the General Package, so be sure to add a ticket ($45) which includes entry to the museum, light fare, and transportation.
Cheers to 40 Years! HLAA Anniversary Celebration and Awards Gala
Join us on Saturday, June 22 and be part of a special night, paying tribute to our many accomplishments over the years, as well as honor those receiving a HLAA National award. We’ll end the evening with entertainment.
Get ready to be captivated by David Garrity, our host and entertainer at the Cheers to 40 Years! HLAA Anniversary and Awards Gala. Come in your best cocktail attire and be wowed by his magic show, IllusionQuest!
The Cheers to 40 Years Gala is sponsored by
Niagara Falls Tour
How can you visit Rochester without also experiencing one of the natural wonders of the world? Niagara Falls is just an hour and a half ride from Rochester and we want to give you the opportunity to spend the day touring this incredible sight! For only $105 per person you will receive:
- Round-trip deluxe motorcoach transportation
- Maid of the Mist boat ride
- Lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe
- Services of a Covered Wagon Tour Director
The Niagara Falls tour is now closed. If you are interested in visiting Niagara Falls please go to the Visit Rochester booth next to the Convention Registration Desk in the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.
Event Photography Notice
Photography will occur during the HLAA2019 Convention. Photos may be used to for future marketing materials, so if you do not wish to appear in the published photos, please let us know by emailing convention@hearingloss.org.
Communication Access
Hearing loops and CART/Captioning will be in use in all workshops and plenary sessions. Sign Language Interpretation is available for all plenary sessions. You may request interpreters for specific workshops by emailing convention@hearingloss.org. All requests must be sent by May 31, 2019.
The momentum that Hearing Loss Association of America began 40 years ago, raising awareness and advocating for those with hearing loss, just keeps building. CapTel Captioned Telephone is proud to support the HLAA Convention and be involved as people from all areas come together to share findings, learn, become inspired and support one another.
