ADA: ”Access Granted. How Does it apply to me?”
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Register
- Non-member - $55
- Member - $30
- Student - $25
| This course is designed to inform the audience about the misconceptions that occur too often concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act and how to apply it properly in our everyday design practice. While an estimated 7 out of 10 people will experience a temporary or permanent disability in their lifetime, it seems irrelevant, until “it happens to them.” As designers, we must ensure that the spaces we create are equitable for all. Instead of viewing accessibility requirements as an afterthought or a hurdle, we should be practicing “universal design.” Universal Design is a concept that is more flexible in use, and effective in practice. “The ADA section”, should not exist in isolation. Universal Design is inclusive and aesthetically pleasing, without making one feel separate and unequal. At some point, you, someone in your family, or an acquaintance may find yourself in a position where you are unable to maneuver your surroundings without the assistance of another person. Viewing accessibility through the lens of “universal design” requires us to be more proactive and creative in our approach, and the solutions can be so much more rewarding to the greater population. |
Maurita N. Harris, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP, NCARB
Project Manager
PHX Architecture
Maurita N. Harris received her Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Architecture degrees from Kent State University in Ohio wherein part of her undergraduate education, she studied in Italy and Switzerland in her third year. Maurita is a licensed architect in Arizona and is a LEED-AP. She is a founding member and the Immediate Past President of NOMA, Arizona Chapter. In 2021, she was appointed by the Mayor and City Council to the City of Phoenix Alhambra Village Planning Committee. She was a presenter at the AIA Women’s Leadership Summit in Boston in 2023. As Senior Architect at PHX Architecture, she manages hospitality projects from design through construction, mentoring junior staff and coordinating clients, consultants, and contractors. Maurita has a strong knowledge of the building code and accessibility standards, which she maintains with continuing education in these areas. Maurita’s design inspiration comes from being a family-oriented person and the desire to create “gathering places”. Recent projects include the Historic Arizona Biltmore Resort in Phoenix Arizona and the Scottsdale Resort on McCormick Parkway in Scottsdale, Arizona. Outside of work, Maurita is a mother of three and enjoys doing community service with her children.
Gary J. Nelson, AIA, NOMA, NCARB
Architect
City of Phoenix
Gary J. Nelson’s dedication to accessible design is due to his sister and aunt being physically disabled and the challenges they faced in the built environment before passage of ADA in 1990. Originally from Hempstead, NY. and a graduate of Hampton University, he is passionate about Community-Based projects. He is the West Region Vice President of NOM and was founding president of NOMAarizona. Gary is committed to mentoring future generations. A recipient of the NOMA President’s Award and AIA Arizona’s Architects Medal, He is the proud husband of an Air Force veteran and dad of a son and daughter.
