The Power of Being Seen - A Panel Conversation on Representation

Exploring the importance of seeing people with disabilities and rare diseases represented in media, leadership, fashion, and business.
About this Event

Join us for an engaging panel discussion exploring the importance of seeing people with disabilities and rare diseases represented in media, leadership, fashion, and business. Through personal stories and professional insights, our panelists will discuss the impact of authentic representation, breaking down stereotypes, and creating a more inclusive future. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and participate in meaningful conversations.

*Limited tickets available

Panel Event Schedule:

3:30 PM-4:00 PM | Doors open

4:00 PM-5:00 PM | Panel Discussion

5:00 PM-6:00 PM | Social

Meet Panelists:

Vicki Stewart - Moderator

Vicki is the Executive Director of Employment Disability Resources in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion with a minor in Psychology from Augustana University and has devoted more than 34 years to advancing the rights, opportunities, and independence of people with disabilities.

Vicki's leadership extends beyond her organization through her service on the South Dakota Society of Human Resource Management State Council, the Levitt at the Falls Board of Directors, the ADA Sioux Falls Committee, the Sioux Falls Human Relations Commission, and the Sioux Empire United Way Board, where she contributes her expertise and commitment to strengthening communities and advancing inclusive practices.

Jason Freeman - Panelist

Whether speaking in front of thousands of people or coaching a client one-on-one, Jason has a unique gift to both inspire and guide his audience to recognize the best within themselves and take a step closer toward the goals and dreams they desire.

Aided by a speech impediment, Jason exemplifies the awesome possibility of turning limitations into leverage that, with persistence, can turn defeat into triumph. He has shared the stage with well-known speakers in business, education and (dis)ABILITY communities around the country and would love to help you or your audience make their goals actionable and attainable.

Kayley Shade- Panelist

Kayley is the Director of Media for the Indoor Football League. She is also a freelance graphic designer. Kayley has an abundance of knowledge in media with over a decade of graphic design, social media and press experience. In May 2016, she graduated with her degree in marketing with a design emphasis from Southeast Technical Institute (now, Southeast Technical College).

Kayley has been raising awareness about Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and disability inclusion for over ten years. She was honored with South Dakota’s 2022 Governor’s Award for Outstanding Individual with a Disability. Kayley has been featured in several magazines and TV stories throughout her life.

She calls Sioux Falls, South Dakota, home and enjoys spending her free time with family. Kayley is an avid football fan. Her most favorite teams are the Texas Longhorns and Dallas Cowboys. She is their #1 superfan!

Jaci Pieters - Panelist

Jaci is a Sioux Falls native and a graduate of South Dakota State University, where she earned her degree in Advertising. She serves as the Young Professionals Network (YPN) Manager at the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, connecting young professionals with opportunities to grow personally, professionally, and civically. In her role, she leads events, community partnerships, and development initiatives that make Sioux Falls a more welcoming and thriving place for emerging leaders.

With a strong background in relationship building and community engagement, Jaci is passionate about helping others find belonging and purpose in their careers and within the community. She is actively involved throughout Sioux Falls and enjoys collaborating with local organizations to strengthen professional networks and foster growth opportunities for all.

Outside of work, Jaci enjoys spending time with friends, crafting, and exploring new places—always seeking connection in everything she does.