Breakout Session:
From Classrooms to Workplaces: Inclusion Dilemmas Across the Lifespan
This session will explore complex inclusion dilemmas across the lifespan of individuals with disabilities. Through a panel format, speakers will respond to real-world ethical tensions that arise at the intersection of service delivery, systems, and societal expectations. The discussion will centre around inclusion, segregation, safety, and quality of life across three life stages:
- early childhood and school years,
- transition to adulthood, and
- adulthood and aging.
For example, is segregation ever warranted to ensure safety at the cost of inclusion and people’s quality of life? The panelists will draw both on lived and professional experiences as well as ethical principles to examine how these tensions are navigated in present-day realities. The presentation will challenge participants to consider the complexity of inclusion and explore how decisions are shaped by resource limitations and systemic design. The intended outcome is to foster thoughtful, honest, and at times uncomfortable discussion about what meaningful inclusion truly requires. The intended outcome is also to reflect on both the progress that has been made and the gaps that remain. Moreover, the session will highlight opportunities for innovation in designing more responsive and inclusive systems across the lifespan.
Panelists:
Moderator: Dr. Carly Thiessen, Senior Clinical Manager, St.Amant Autism Programs
Affiliation: St.Amant
Dr. Carly Thiessen is the Senior Clinical Manager of Autism Programs at St.Amant, a psychologist candidate, doctoral-level Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA-D), and Adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology through the University of Manitoba. She has extensive experience supporting autistic children, youth, families, and the professionals who work alongside them. Passionate about neuroaffirming, evidence-informed practice, Dr. Thiessen is committed to advancing inclusion across the lifespan through collaboration, advocacy, and community partnerships. She is pleased to moderate this panel exploring perspectives on creating more inclusive communities for people of all ages.
Panelist 1: Heidi Hutchison, People First Manitoba
Heidi Hutchison first started with People First in October 2023 where she became the president of People First of Winnipeg. She was drawn to People First by her firm belief that the way the current system is running isn’t good enough. Everything from high turnover and low pay among support staff, sheltered workshops not providing equal pay, to issues with transit all inspired her to join on and make a difference. In her short time with People First Heidi helped re-start the Winnipeg chapter helping to build and co-ordinate a new membership base. She was eventually elected President of the Winnipeg chapter. One of her biggest accomplishments since joining People First was setting up a food project that provided fresh vegetables to 50 people receiving EIA support. On August 7th 2025 Heidi was elected President of People First Manitoba. In the future Heidi hopes to become a member of the national board for People First of Canada where she can continue her work on a national level.
Panelist 2: Caroline Cramer, MBA Candidate, Director of Operations
Affiliation: St.Amant
Caroline Cramer is a Red River Métis leader and disability advocate, Director of Operations at St. Amant, and Board Director at Manitoba Possible. She brings extensive leadership and operations experience across public service, health, education, and community organizations, with a strong background in leading diverse teams.
Her perspective on inclusion is also shaped by lived experience as a parent and caregiver. She believes inclusion takes more than policies and good intentions. It requires listening, learning, and adapting to individual needs so that people have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Panelist 3: Susanne Marius, Principal, St.Amant School
Affiliation: St.Amant
Susanne Marius is the Principal and Inclusive Education Administrator at St.Amant School, where she leads a multidisciplinary team supporting students with complex medical, developmental, and behavioural needs. With more than 25 years of experience in education, she is committed to creating inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive. She holds a Master of Education in Educational Administration, with research focused on identity and belonging. For the past five years, she has served on the St.Amant Ethics Committee and the Beyond Limits Conference Planning Committee, contributing to conversations that advance ethical, inclusive, and person-centred practices.
