​Candidate Bios and Position Statements

(Presented in alphabetical order)

 

Gina Marie Byers

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I was born and raised in Flagstaff, AZ. My entire life has been about helping others. When I was hired on with Sun Sounds of Arizona as the station manager in Flagstaff, I was excited to continue this trend. Serving on the IAAIS Board is another opportunity to work with others to make the world a better place for everyone.

Nick Carswell

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Nick Carswell is originally from Limerick, Ireland. He has studied music, maths and philosophy at University College Dublin, sound engineering in Temple Bar’s Sound Training Centre and an M.Phil in Music and Media Technologies in Trinity College Dublin. Nick has also made award-winning short films, produced radio programs, and created large scale public art projects in Lawrence and Kansas City.

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Nick has wide experience with arts & cultural non-profits, community organizing, public art and professional development. He is currently program manager for the Audio-Reader Network, an audio information service for individuals with print-disabilities.

 

"I am interested in serving on the IAAIS board in order to support audio information services as we continue to serve our listeners and patrons amidst changing landscapes in technology, media and accessibility. I believe that audio information services offer a unique opportunity to keep underserved individuals connected and informed, to add value to their lives and to advocate for the individuals and audiences we serve."

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Bekah Jerde

 

Bekah Jerde is a Nonprofit Leader, an Advocate, a Woman in Recovery, an Artist and Photographer.  Bekah was born and raised on the high plains of northwestern South Dakota and has called Omaha home for over 20 years.  As the Executive Director of Radio Talking Book Service, she ensures equal access to print media for Nebraskans who are blind or print impaired.  She provides audio description for live theater events in Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding communities.  Bekah has served as treasurer on the IAAIS board since 2018. 

 

"Service is one of my core values, and I am grateful to work for an organization that impacts so many. Audio information services enable our listeners to remain engaged in their communities and lead productive, self-directed lives. Additionally, the companionship provided by our organizations is invaluable. With the challenges that our industry, from funding to technology, having access to the support, resources, and guidance provided by the IAAIS is key in remaining viable and relevant. Much like our services alleviate isolation for our listeners, the sense of community fostered by IAAIS membership is beneficial to building organizational camaraderie and confidence." 

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Kim Ann Wardlow

 

Kim is the Executive Director of Aftersight in Boulder.  She began her association with AINC as a volunteer reader then joined the staff as the Director of Marketing in 2001. Kim became the Executive Director in November of 2018.  She has found participating in IAAIS to be beneficial for Aftersight and its staff. Directors of other reading services have been very helpful and willing to discuss issues that are somewhat unique to our industry. After serving a term on the board she is interested in taking another step in leadership and bringing some of the lessons learned in her own organization to IAAIS. In particular, she is interested to hear how IAAIS can better meet member needs and in the process become a stronger organization. Before joining AINC, she served as a Business Development Manager for GE Access, a Senior Marketing Coordinator for the URS Corporation and a Marketing Specialist for the Colorado Department of Agriculture. A Colorado native, Kim grew up in Lamar.  Outside of work, she enjoys reading, knitting, and going for long walks with her husband Doug and their dog, CeCe.

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Ballots must be received by

April 15, 2024

CLICK HERE TO VOTE!