The National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC), a proud division of the National Federation of the Blind, is led by an elected president and a board of directors who are deeply committed to empowering families and creating a brighter future for blind and low vision children. Together, they bring passion, experience, and a shared vision for promoting equality, independence, and opportunity for every child.

The NOPBC board works tirelessly to support parents, teachers, and professionals by providing education, mentoring, and advocacy resources. Through training sessions, family programs, and national outreach, the organization equips families with the tools they need to raise confident, capable children who can fully participate in school, community, and life.

By fostering high expectations, encouraging Braille literacy, and promoting access to technology and inclusive education, the NOPBC ensures that blind and low vision children have the opportunity to develop their potential and live the lives they want. In partnership with the National Federation of the Blind, the NOPBC continues to strengthen a nationwide network of families and advocates dedicated to inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.

Officers

President

Cassandra/Cassie McKinney - Tennessee | Phone: 603-903-5855 | Email: president@nopbc.org

First Vice President

Casey West Robertson - Mississippi/Louisiana | Phone: 662-871-8834 | Email: CASEYWEST94@HOTMAIL.COM

Second Vice President

Melissa Riccobono - Maryland | Phone: 443-803-0266 | Email: MELISSAARICCOBONO@GMAIL.COM

Secretary

Carol Castellano - New Jersey | Phone: 201-400-1101 | Email: CAROL_CASTELLANO@VERIZON.NET

Treasurer

Sonia Timmons - South Carolina | Phone: 704-572-0352 | Email: smwtimmons@icloud.com

Board Members

Cynthia Baker - Alabama | Phone: 251-209-8187 | Email: BAKERCYNT@GMAIL.COM

Andrea Benoit - Louisiana | Phone: 337-591-4154 | Email: ANDREA.BENOIT@EXPRO.COM

Kate Garcia - New Jersey | Phone: 973-809-3333 | Email: HI.KATEGARCIA@GMAIL.COM

Mayra Gonzalez - Oregon | Phone: 661-243-5923 | Email: TWINSPLUSK@GMAIL.COM

Amber Guilbeau - Louisiana | Phone: 337-280-1652 | Email: ACGUILBEAU@GMAIL.COM

Liz Meras-Valdez - Alabama | Phone: 251-545-0259 | Email: VALDEZFAIRHOPE@GMAIL.COM

Briley O'Connor - Minnesota | Phone: 703-380-8876 | Email: Brileyoc@gmail.com

President Emerita

Barbara Cheadle - Maryland | Phone: 443-900-5549 | Email: barcheadle50@gmail.com