Christine Woodell
Technical Assistance
Southeast ADA Center
Christine Woodell
Speaker Bio
“As a person with a disability, I grew to learn that I had rights, and that law and policy were critical to allowing me to have the opportunity to have a full life. Not only was my life affected, but also the lives of my children, grandchildren, family and friends. I realized that what I had learned during my life allowed me to influence others to understand why compliance with the laws was critical. “
Christine has participated in the ADA Training and Implementation Network, Phases 1, 2, and 3, and has spent the years since that wonderful training spreading the word about the importance of the ADA and other disability related laws. Christine has had the opportunity to become involved with the Fair Housing Act, and serve on the founding board of the Gulf Coast Fair Housing Center, with three years as President and also serving as Vice President. Christine attended the Fair Housing School, presented by the National Fair Housing Alliance, and is able to advocate for compliance with that law as well.
Christine works with the Southeast ADA Center doing technical assistance, course moderation and serves on their expert training team. In addition, Christine contracts with the Independent Living Program in Mississippi, LIFE, doing training and technical assistance. Christine has extensive, real world experience with people in all arenas giving her a unique perspective to understand what is really happening in our country and what is needed in the area of policy.
For many years before Katrina, Christine advocated on the Gulf Coast for accessibility in shelters. Following the storm in 2005, Christine was faced with severe damage to her home. Christine personally encountered the lack of access in temporary housing and the frustration of not having accessible emergency services available to her. This gives Christine a unique personal understanding of the problems associated with emergency management issues for people with disabilities and uniquely qualified for the FEMA National Advisory Council.