Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness

09/14/2026

We would like to formally announce Dr. Rosy Carranza as the new Director of the Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB) at Louisiana Tech University.

Dr. Carranza brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of education and rehabilitation for people who are blind, with a particular strength in advocacy, policy, leadership, and community engagement. Through her previous work with the Louisiana Center for the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind, she has developed a deep understanding of the importance of high expectations, meaningful opportunities, and advocacy in creating a more inclusive and empowering future for people who are blind.

We are excited about the knowledge, vision, and perspective Dr. Carranza will bring to PDRIB as we continue our commitment to training professionals, advancing research, and providing meaningful learning experiences and resources to the blindness community. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Rosy Carranza to PDRIB and wishing her all the best as she begins this new chapter of leadership!

06/28/2026

Congratulations to Casey Robertson. We could not be more proud of her contributions to field of blindness and are grateful that she is receiving this recognition of her work.

06/24/2026

The Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB) was excited to welcome students from the Louisiana Center for the Blind’s EDGE Pre-Employment Transition Program to Louisiana Tech University’s College of Education and Human Sciences.

During their visit, students learned about college life, explored academic opportunities, and discussed important factors to consider when choosing the right university. They met with Dean Pichon in COEHS and were able to ask questions about the university and about the future of education. They also had the opportunity to learn about programs offered through PDRIB and how higher education can support their future career and independence goals.

After the presentation, the group enjoyed a campus tour, visiting some of Louisiana Tech’s most iconic locations, including the TONK, Centennial Plaza, and the Louisiana Tech Bookstore. The tour provided students with a firsthand look at campus life and the resources available to college students. The many construction projects on campus also made for a really fun travel route.

We enjoyed spending the afternoon with these future leaders and look forward to seeing the exciting paths they choose to pursue!

05/08/2026

We are so proud of our very own Casey Robertson who was named Braille Institute’s 2026 Braille Challenge Teacher of the Year for Excellence in Braille Instruction.
Casey is our lead instructor for the Teaching Blind Students program but she teaches all of our graduate students and is a major contributor and backbone to our department.
You should take a moment and read about her many contributions to the field in this article. What it doesn’t mention is that she is also an exceptionally hard worker, a caring friend, and a devoted mother. This woman cares deeply and she shows her care through service.
Thank you Casey for doing the hard work to improve the field and making the world better for our blind children. This is much deserved. We are so proud that we get to call you ours!
Congratulations again!

Casey L. Robertson is a nationally recognized educator, leader, and advocate in the field of blindness education with more than a decade of experience preparing professionals, supporting families, and advancing literacy for blind students. She serves through the Professional

05/05/2026

05/05/2026

05/05/2026

05/05/2026

Thank you for supporting LCB in last year’s Give for Good campaign, hosted by the Community Foundation of North Louisiana! We’re excited to participate again!!
Main giving day is May 5 but early giving is open now.
An anonymous donor will match gifts dollar-for-dollar up to $2,500 and early donations help us unlock even more funds.

Please give today: https://mtyc.co/zmel2f

Share to help us reach the full match and our $10,000 goal!

PD: LCB students, staff and the Board are posing for a photo in front of the Ruston mural on the north side of the shop building.

04/30/2026

Kristen, Kayla, and the Master’s students are in Colorado this week to host a professional development workshop for K-12 O&M instructors in the state. While there, they stopped by CCB for a tour, philosophy, and to learn from their instructors.