Audio-Reader hosts International Association of Audio Information Services (IAAIS) conference and takes home 3 awards
LAWRENCE — Audio-Reader Network, an audio information service based at the University of Kansas for blind, visually impaired and print-disabled individuals, was recently honored by the International Association of Audio Information Services (IAAIS) at the organization’s annual conference, hosted June 13 in Lawrence.
The IAAIS 2024 program awards recognize outstanding achievements in fostering accessibility and inclusion through innovative programs and dedicated service.
“The IAAIS 2024 Program Awards highlight the incredible dedication and creativity within our community,” said Kim Wardlow, president of IAAIS. “This year’s winners have demonstrated exceptional quality and commitment to making the world a more accessible and inclusive place for everyone. We are immensely proud to honor their impactful work.”
Audio-Reader received three awards for 2024 programming in the categories of consumer information/public service; magazines; and dramas, radio theater or holiday specials.
Consumer Information/Public Service Award
The Consumer Information/Public Service Award for the 2024 Voting Guide was read and produced by Nick Carswell, Audio-Reader’s program manager. The guide for voters across the Kansas City region included detailed descriptions of candidates and ballot measures during the 2024 election cycle.
The Magazines Award
The Magazines Award for Field & Stream Magazine was read by Gavin Bruce and produced by Carswell.
Since 1995, Bruce has volunteered with Audio-Reader either in person or remotely. During that time, he has read a variety of assignments, each with his steady, intriguing voice, which keeps listeners coming back again and again. A KU graduate, he has traveled the world, visiting and living abroad multiple times, but he makes a point to stay connected with the Lawrence community.
Dramas, Radio Theater or Holiday Specials Award
This award was granted for Audio-Reader’s production of “Two on the Aisle: Those Who Served,” read by Melinda Kearney, produced by Colin Halliburton and Carswell.
Kearney started volunteering with Audio-Reader in 2015 along with her husband, Tom. Not only do they read multiple programs each week, they serve on Audio-Reader’s advisory board and volunteer at many fundraisers and outreach events each year. Kearney’s Halloween episode of “Two on the Aisle” is an example of her enthusiastic voice, consistent professionalism and dedication to Audio-Reader listeners, according to Audio-Reader staff.
Read the full list of awards on https://www.iaais.org/2025-awards.
About IAAIS
The International Association of Audio Information Services connects and supports organizations for people with disabilities worldwide. IAAIS is a volunteer-driven membership organization of services that turn text into speech for people who cannot see, hold or comprehend the printed word and who may be unable to access information due to a disability or health condition.
The conference brought the association members together for delicious food, lots of fun meaningful conversations. On June 14, the group gathered at Audio-Reader for a tour of the building and sensory garden. Several of A-R's volunteers joined the fun, guiding tours and serving Sylas & Maddy's ice cream with Uplift Coffee on the side.
The above image was taken at the end of the building tour and features IAAIS members from across the US including Colorado, Mass., Georgia, Indiana, Illinois, Nebraska, Iowa, Kentucky, Texas, Virginia, Maryland, Arizona, and Arkansas.
During the conference, attendees enjoyed a entertaining and informative presentation from the IAAIS Accessibility Task Force who shared Rules of Interacting with the visually impaired and tips and tools for more inclusive hiring practices.
Task members Evan Starnes and Penn Street from Aftersight, Neva Fairchild from Experts on Blindness, Mike Duke of Mississippi, and Ryan Obradovich from Nebraska stand with Audio-Reader staff members Feloniz Lovato-Winston, Beth McKenzie, Colin Haliburton, and Caroline Blanke and 12 other IAAIS members.
IAAIS currently represents 80-some services and developing services. Learn more at the organization’s website.