MAC 2026 Keynote Speakers

Michael Hingson, blind since birth, was born in Chicago to sighted parents who believed in raising their son with a can-do attitude. Treated like all other children in his family, Michael rode a bike did advanced math in his head and learn to read and write – Braille that is! Michael’s family relocated to the warm Palmdale area of California when he was five years old. It is here that Hingson had his first adventure with Guide Dogs for the Blind and received his first guide dog. He later went to college receiving a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Physics along with a secondary teaching credential from the University of California at Irvine.

Michael then enjoyed a nearly-30-year career working for high tech companies spending most of his time in management roles.

Michael Hingson’s life changed dramatically on September 11, 2001 when he and his guide dog, Roselle, escaped from the 78th floor of Tower One in the World Trade Center moments before it collapsed. Soon after, Michael and Roselle were thrust into the international limelight where Michael began to share his unique survival story and 9-11 lessons of trust, courage, heroism, and teamwork.

Mike has served as The National Public Affairs Director for one of the largest Nonprofit organizations in the nation: Guide Dogs for the Blind; He has served as the vice president of the National Association of Guide Dog Users; Michael has held a seat on the Fort Worth Lighthouse for the Blind. He is the chair of the board of directors of the Earle Baum Center for the Blind and is the vice chair of the Colorado Center for the Blind; Michael is The National Ambassador for the Braille Literacy Campaign of the National Federation of the Blind.

He is the author of the #1 New York Times Best Seller: “Thunder dog –The True Story of a Blind Man, a Guide Dog & the Triumph of Trust” – selling over 2.5 million copies Worldwide. In 2013 Mr. Hingson published his 2^nd book “Running with Roselle”- which Is the first of its kind- A story for our youth shedding light on one of Americas Darkest Days. Mr. Hingson’s third book, “Live Like A Guide Dog”, was released on August 20, 2024. This book shows readers how they can learn to control fear and not, as Mike would say, “become blinded by fear in the face of crisis”.

Aside from his talents and advocacies, Mr. Hingson has traveled the Globe from Japan to New Zealand, the Netherlands to his hometown, Chicago. Speaking to some of the world’s most elite: from former President, George W. Bush to Larry King, to Fortune 500 companies and colleges and Universities Nationwide. After sharing his story of survival on hundreds of TV and Radio programs, Michael is now an Expert hired by many of today’s major corporations and organizations. Speaking and consulting on the importance of Teamwork and Trust, Moving from Diversity to Inclusion, as well as offering Adaptive Technology Training – spearheading innovation for ALL! - Thus, bringing organizations to the forefront of the ever-changing competitive modern world.

In June, 2024 Mike was inducted as an alumni member into the honors Fraternity Phi Beta Kappa.

Currently Michael lives in Victorville, California with Alamo, Michael’s eighth guide dog and his rescue feline, Stitch.

Sarita Maybin is a seasoned keynote speaker and workplace communication expert who equips audiences with the skills to transform uncomfortable conversations into constructive communication and work together better. Over the past two decades, she has presented in all 50 states, 10 countries, including Iceland, and on the prestigious TEDx stage.

Sarita blends real stories, real-world solutions, and a relatable presence that engages audiences and inspires positive action. Her message has resonated with a wide range of clients, including the American Dental Association, Million Dollar Round Table, National Conference of State Legislatures, the Department of the Navy, and the University of California.

She shares strategies that strengthen collaboration and prepare people to handle difficult conversations with kindness and compassion. Growing up as a “military brat” and thriving in a life of constant change, Sarita brings a unique perspective that makes her adaptable and at ease in a variety of settings.

Sarita is a former university dean of students with a master’s degree in counseling/higher education and the author of two books: If You Can’t Say Something Nice, What DO You Say? and Say What You Mean in a Nice Way.

Sarita’s keynotes empower audiences with skills in leadership communication, conflict resolution, team building, and stress management. Her practical, positive approach provides participants with the motivation and tools to navigate change, respond to workplace negativity, and strengthen relationships.