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