Tuesday Mainstage Program: Welcome to the Conference

Dr. James Dixon is a nationally acclaimed motivational speaker and the visionary behind the global Elevate The Voices movement. As Chief Impact Officer of Impact Media Group, Dr. Dixon has empowered millions through storytelling that uplifts, challenges, and transforms. From the operating room to international stages, his journey of resilience and purpose has touched lives across generations. With 457,000+ followers and a voice that commands attention, Dr. Dixon brings clarity, conviction, and heart. Together with his wife Nikki, they lead with legacy—and we’re honored to have them at ACNC26.

Wednesday Mainstage Program: Actress. Athlete. Advocate.

Katy Sullivan is a history-making stage performer and Paralympian whose work lights up both the stage and the track. A bilateral above-knee amputee, Katy made history as the first actress who has limb loss to star on Broadway in the Pulitzer Prize-winning Cost of Living. Her acting credits span hit TV shows like Dexter: New Blood, NCIS: New Orleans, and Last Man Standing, and a large part in the last season of the Emmy Nominated show, HACKS, while her athletic career includes a top-6 finish at the 2012 London Paralympics in the 100m. Katy’s stories are filled with humor, power, and real-life experience—and her words will stay with you long after the lights go down.

Thursday Mainstage Program: Hall Of Famer and Las Vegas Local

Las Vegas local Bill Zabelny, CMP is more than just a certified meeting professional—he’s a published author, athlete, and hockey hall-of-famer who knows how to close a show with impact. Bill is a four-time silver medalist with Team USA’s Standing Amputee division and currently represents ALPS as a parts model and brand ambassador. When he’s not playing with the Elderskatesmen Hockey Club, he’s bringing stories of advocacy, leadership, and resilience to audiences nationwide. Bill’s passion is helping others find strength in their story—and his keynote will leave you ready to move into your next chapter.

Meet Your Host: Comedian and Community Advocate

Michael Beers started stand-up when he was still in high school, and it was “love at first laugh.” Since then, he has performed in comedy clubs, theaters, churches, and on Zoom. His audiences include conferencegoers, children/teens, colleges, corporations, and even dive bar patrons. His flexible comedy style and instincts make him ideal for any occasion. Michael is a part of the Comedians with Disabilities Act, a comedy troupe proclaiming to “change disability attitudes one laugh at a time.” Michael is the winner of the Norman G. Brooks Comedy Competition at the Hollywood Improv, the winner of Funny Fest (Calgary Comedy Festival), and has opened for comedians like Gilbert Gottfried. Michael is highly sought-after on topics including humor, disability advocacy, education, and community building. Michael will join the Wednesday afternoon Exhibit Hall Preview for a comedy set and Thursday night at the Opening Celebration as host and comedy entertainment.