Accessible Innovation Showcase at the Schoolhouse Hotel

PRESS RELEASE

The Schoolhouse Hotel | White Sulphur Springs, WV
July 15 – 16, 2026

Event Overview

Welcome to the Accessible Innovation Showcase. This gathering brings together leaders in hospitality, technology, and advocacy to explore the future of inclusive travel. We are proud to host you at The Schoolhouse Hotel, the world’s first fully accessible boutique hotel and the home of The Accessibility Lab. This event is free and sponsored by a grant DOF received through Appalachian Community Capital and the Goldman Sachs Foundation.

Day 1: Wednesday, July 15

Mid-Afternoon | Guest Arrival

Attendees check in to The Schoolhouse Hotel. Take this time to explore the unique, historic architecture and inclusive design of the property.

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Welcome Reception & Networking

Join us for evening cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. This informal gathering serves as the official kickoff for the showcase, providing an opportunity to connect with fellow innovators and leaders in the disability advocacy space.

Day 2: Thursday, July 16

8:00 AM | Networking Breakfast

8:45 AM | Kick-off: Charlie Hammerman, CEO, Disability Opportunity Fund

9:00 AM | Fireside Chat: The Vision of The Accessibility Lab + Accessible Travel

Moderator: Chris Maher, Samaritan Partners
Guest: Kristy Durso, Keynote speaker, Functional Accessibility Consultant, Entrepreneur, Army veteran, and military wife Kristy Durso owns and operates Incredible Memories Travel, a full-service travel agency that assists everyone, including those with accessibility needs.

9:30 AM | Video from Gordon Hartman of Morgan’s Wonderland

9:45 AM | Fireside Chat: Disability-Driven Innovation

Moderator: Chris Maher, Samaritan Partners
Guest: Bob Ludke A deep dive into how disability-centric design serves as a primary catalyst for broader technological and social innovation. His book: “Case Studies in Disability-Driven Innovation”

10:15 AM | Innovation Showcase

Trailblazing companies present “lightning talks” on their latest solutions for the hospitality and tourism sectors. 15 minutes per company including Q&A

Emcee: Chris Maher + Kristy Durso

Wheel the World – Accessible Tourism

We Hear You – Accessible Door Hinge

Right Hear – Way finding and navigation

Si-Huis – Accessible Lamp

LUCI Mobility – Smart wheelchair

Sekond Skin Society – Accessible fitness platform

12:30 PM | Lunch & Networking

1:15 PM | Accessibility Lab Site Tours

An immersive walk-through of The Schoolhouse Hotel. Attendees will see the showcased innovations integrated directly into the built environment, demonstrating real-world applications of inclusive design.

2:30 PM | Event Conclusion Guests depart.

We invite you to stay through the weekend and enjoy all Greenbrier Valley has to offer!