ACB Opens Registration for Virtual Audio Description Institute

The American Council of the Blind (ACB) is now accepting registrations for its upcoming Audio Description Institute (ADI), a five-day virtual training program designed to teach participants the art and craft of audio description. Scheduled for September 14-18, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m. ET, the institute will be led by Dr. Joel Snyder, a pioneer in the field and founder of the ACB's Audio Description Project (ADP). The program is open to both blind and sighted individuals, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers the history and theory of audio description, the Four Fundamentals of Audio Description ©, and techniques for creating vivid and effective descriptions across various media, including film, television, performing arts, museums, and educational content.

According to ACB Executive Director Scott Thornhill, the institute addresses a growing need for skilled professionals in accessibility. Participants will engage in collaborative writing exercises and hands-on learning, gaining practical skills that can lead to freelance opportunities or enhanced organizational accessibility efforts. The training is ideal for aspiring writers, performing arts describers, museum professionals, and anyone interested in fostering inclusion. Registration costs $575, with two full scholarships available, prioritizing applicants with disabilities. Scholarship applications are due by August 28, 2026, and general registration closes on September 8, 2026, or when capacity is reached.

For more details, interested individuals can visit the official ADI page to learn about the program, or directly register online. The ACB, a national member-driven organization representing Americans who are blind or visually impaired, continues to champion independence and equal opportunity through initiatives like the ADI. For more information about the ACB, visit www.acb.org.