#USA #Los Angeles #Accessibility # #Braille Institute #George Abbott

Braille Institute Welcomes George Abbott to Board of Directors

On June 17, 2026, the Braille Institute of America made an exciting announcement regarding its governance. George Abbott, an acclaimed leader in blindness services, has been appointed to its Board of Directors. With a career spanning over two decades, Abbott brings a wealth of experience in vision rehabilitation, accessible education, workforce development, and nonprofit leadership.

Abbott's most recent role as President and CEO of The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. in Seattle saw him guide a significant organization recognized nationally for its support of blind and DeafBlind individuals. Leading a workforce of over 425, with more than 225 being blind or DeafBlind, he oversaw a $95 million budget, shaping the operational strategy that ensured alignment with the mission of enhancing independence and job opportunities.

Dimitri Kales, the CEO of Braille Institute, celebrated Abbott's appointment, emphasizing that his dedication to advancing independence and inclusion for visually impaired individuals is commendable. As Braille Institute strives to magnify its mission through its five-year strategic plan, known as Mission Magnified, the organization aims to expand its reach to over 200,000 individuals per year. With Abbott's expertise in innovative programming and expanding educational and employment opportunities, his contributions are anticipated to significantly bolster the organization's impact.

Abbott's journey in the blindness services arena began at the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired as a rehabilitation instructor where he imparted independent living and communication skills. His dedication continued at the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Blind Rehabilitation Center, where he trained veterans in technology accessibility, a vital service that benefited many.

Throughout his career, Abbott has held influential positions at The Hadley School for the Blind, overseeing educational programs for thousands of students globally, and at the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), where he advanced national initiatives to foster employment opportunities for the visually impaired. His tenure at AFB also involved significant roles in professional development and publishing.

Reflecting on his nomination, Jim Rhodes, Chair of the Board of Directors, acknowledged Abbott's extensive knowledge of the challenges that the visually impaired community faces. He noted that Abbott's career illustrates a commitment to expanding access and inclusion, qualities that will undoubtedly enhance Braille Institute's mission and initiatives moving forward.

George Abbott's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a Master of Science in Education in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy from Northern Illinois University. Moreover, he has a certificate in nonprofit management from the University of Illinois Chicago, enhancing his strategic approach to leadership in the nonprofit sector.

Abbott's professional contributions are further recognized through his involvement with several prestigious organizations, such as the National Association for the Employment of People who are Blind and the VisionServe Alliance. His accolades include the Bruce McKenzie Lifetime Achievement Award and the Distinguished Service Award from Illinois AER, underscoring his profound impact on the community.

Michael Corley, Chair of the Governance Committee at Braille Institute, expressed his enthusiasm for Abbott's nomination, highlighting his deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of individuals with vision loss. This connection will fortify Braille Institute’s resolve as they pursue their goals under the Mission Magnified strategic plan.

In summary, George Abbott’s appointment to the Braille Institute Board marks a significant enhancement in the organization's leadership. His extensive experience and unwavering commitment to advocating for the blind and visually impaired community position Braille Institute to expand its offerings and deepen its impact in the years to come, thereby redefining the possibilities for those facing vision loss.

About Braille Institute

Braille Institute is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with vision loss through a bold vision that emphasizes empowerment and independence. With over 100 years of service, it offers free programs that include technology training, mobility instruction, and consultation, aiming to redefine the narrative for those with low to no vision through its Mission Magnified initiative.