Angela Fowler
My name is Angela Fowler, and I am honored to serve as president of the California Association of Blind Students. I am a sophomore at Yuba Community College, with an eye toward obtaining a masters in rehabilitation teaching. I am also the proud mother of three-year-old Jefferson, a charming young man who has quickly ascended to the position of CABS mascot.My interests include camping, cooking outdoors, wood working, and watching the Colorado Rockies beat the pants off anyone from California. As you can see, I also enjoy winning friends and influencing people. I am energetic and passionate, friendly, and some would say with a sense of humor. My work with the National Federation of the Blind and the California Association of Blind Students however, I take very seriously.
This passion for working with other blind people was realized when I attended the Colorado Center for the Blind in 2001. There I truly began to internalize the philosophy of the National Federation of the Blind, that blind people are hampered, not by lack of eyesight, but by misunderstanding about blindness. This philosophy has allowed me to come slowly out of the shadows of my own self doubt, and I seek always to help others do the same.
I’ve wanted nothing more than to teach a positive philosophy about blindness, and pass on the gifts I was given in Colorado, but did not know how I could do that until I got involved in CABS. The leaders at that time quickly recognized my desire to work with blind people, and recognized talents in me that I didn’t know I had. They welcomed me with open arms, rapidly making me a part of a vital organization, making me feel needed for what I can contribute and wanted for the person I am.
The former past president of CABS told me one time that there are three things every new member needs: a friend to understand them, a job to make them feel useful and vital, and the philosophy. As president I have many goals for this organization, many things I would like to see us accomplish in the next couple years. All these things are important, but they are secondary to this one; I would like to pass these three crucial things on to every new member who comes into CABS. In short, I would like to pass on the welcome I received when I first joined the California Association of Blind Students.
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