Universal Design 2025 Series: Past, Present, Future. Present is highlighted.

Universal Design Today: Current Trends in St. Louis

Aging in Place, Living Independently

Bonus: Guided tour of Paraquad’s accessible model apartment!

Starkloff Disability Institute and Paraquad are bringing you a free, in-person event to discover all about how Universal Design and home modifications can support independent living and aging in place.

Join us for “Universal Design Today: Current Trends in St. Louis” at Paraquad for a presentation, panel, and Q&A with UD and Aging in Place Experts. In addition to the discussion, there is an optional guided tour of Paraquad’s model accessible apartment to see practical modifications in action. (Tour space is limited—reserve your spot when registering!)

Event Details:

Thursday, August 28, 2025

5:30 – 7:30 pm

Accessible Apartment Tours: Due to space constraints, each tour is limited to 10 people. Tours will happen before and after the program, as well as during a break at 6:30. Choose your tour timeslot when you register!

Location: Paraquad (5240 Oakland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110)

Cost: Free. Please reserve your spot using the ticket form below.

Light refreshments will be provided.

Registration

Grab your free tickets using the form below ⬇️

Select tickets for the event and which time you prefer to tour the model accessible apartment.

This event will have ASL interpretation. If you use ASL, please let us know when registering so we can be sure to have enough interpreters on site.

Meet the Expert Panel

Brianna Holden, MSOT, OTR/L

Brianna Holden is a registered and licensed occupational therapist, study coordinator, and lead interventionist with Dr. Susy Stark’s Participation, Environment and Performance Laboratory at WashU. She earned her MSOT from WashU Medicine and has worked in acute care, PACE programs, and now coordinating research projects aimed at helping older adults stay active at home and in the community. Her work focuses on implementation science and community-based intervention, particularly in geriatrics, environmental modifications, and community accessibility. Brianna is passionate about Universal Design and home modifications and their ability to enhance quality of life and sustain community living for St. Louis residents.

Connect with Brianna on LinkedIn.

Kevin Jackson

Kevin A. Jackson is a dedicated professional and philanthropist, born in St. Louis, MO. At 56 years old, Kevin has built an impressive career as the Director of Development with JSTON Homes, where he has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation. An alumnus of Affton Senior High School, Kevin’s commitment to his community extends beyond his professional achievements, as he is actively involved in various volunteer initiatives, demonstrating his passion for giving back and making a positive impact on the St. Louis community.

Brian Liberman, CAPS

Brian Liberman is the owner of the Next Day Access franchise covering St. Louis and the Metro East. Next Day Access provides accessibility solutions such as wheelchair ramps, stairlifts, grab bars vertical platform lifts and many others. Brian is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). Brian’s mother was a quadriplegic for the last 6 years of her life and that has made him passionate about helping people remain in their own home, if reasonable, by making them more accessible. He realizes that no two clients are alike and every situation can benefit from an expert evaluation. While the franchise has existed nationally since 2013, Brian opened the local franchise in August of 2024. Prior to opening Next Day Access, Brian ran his family’s retail lighting business, Jaffe Lighting, and was also a commercial lender. Brian has two adult sons and resides in Webster Groves.

Connect with Brian on LinkedIn.

Sundra Smith

Sundra Smith is a member of the St. Louis community who has benefited from home modifications in the past which have increased both her independence and safety. She will be providing the perspective of a homeowner and discussing how thoughtful design can make all the difference for local residents.

Rachel Staab, MSOT, OTR/L

Rachel Staab, MOT, OTR/L, is a dedicated Occupational therapist with a career centered on promoting access, dignity, and independence for individuals with disabilities and aging adults. She brings a deep expertise in home modifications, focusing on making environments safe, functional, and inclusive. Rachel believes that universal design is the key to empowering people to thrive in their homes regardless of mobility, sensory needs, or age. Her work is driven by a vision of barrier-free living where everyone can thrive without limitation.

Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn.

This event is presented in partnership with Paraquad.

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