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Our new Transition Specialist is a familiar face! Lilly Dunrud became our Transition Specialist in December. Read about her new role below.

I started working at NDVS/SB in December of 2018 as the APH Coordinator/ Administrative Assistant. In December 2025, I was hired as the Transition Specialist, which truly has been a dream come true. Having worked here for so many years, I feel that knowing the ins and outs of the agency has made this transition into my new role so much smoother. 

As the new Transition Specialist at NDVS/SB, I am excited to continue building my knowledge and skills so I can best support students who are blind or have low vision as they prepare for life after high school. My goal is to help students build confidence, independence, and self-advocacy skills while exploring career interests, post-secondary education, employment opportunities, independent living skills, and community involvement. I look forward to helping students and families navigate transition planning, connect with resources, and develop the tools they need to successfully reach their personal goals. 

Transition to a Transition Position Full Article

There are plenty of stereotypes regarding people who are blind, most of them negative. Even though people who are blind or have low vision prove these stereotypes wrong by simply living normal lives - succeeding in their jobs, raising families, and living independently, the stereotypes persist.

Jeremy Schmidt of Bismarck is one of those people proving the stereotype wrong. Jeremy has been blind his entire life, but – perhaps surprising to some people - graduated from college, has a successful career working as a Contact Service Representative for Social Security, is raising a family, and continues to grow and challenge himself. He is, you could say, living a normal life, where blindness can be a challenge at times but does not define his life. 

Proving the Stereotypes Wrong Full Article

The first time Chawnteeka Cooper attended an adult program at NDVS/SB, about 15 years ago, she was nervous. But the staff and instructors quickly made her feel comfortable. “They are all so encouraging,” Chawnteeka says. Over the years, she’s worked on cleaning techniques, cooking, braille, and technology skills during the weeks she’s attended adult programs and when NDVS/SB staff have visited her home. After she had her daughter, certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist Paul Olson, who also serves as Superintendent of NDVS/SB, taught her how to use her white cane while pushing a stroller. Now, she has a new goal – to get a guide dog. But that is no small feat. “I’m working hard to get my dog,” she says. “I have to pass a test to get one,” and Orientation & Mobility Specialist Margo Lentz is helping her learn what she needs to accomplish that goal. “I feel safe with her,” Chawnteeka says of Margo. “I know she’d jump in front of a car for me, for any of her students.” 

Fabulous, Regardless Full Article

NDVS/SB Data Administrative Assistant

Amy Bohlman has suddenly found more time in her day. After 10 years of commuting from her home in Hatton, ND, to work in Fargo, the hour-plus drive – each way – is something she doesn’t miss. Her drive to 500 Stanford Road is a lot shorter. But she does occasionally miss her companions from some of those drives. “Transporting animals for the rescue was one thing that made commuting to Fargo bearable,” she says. Amy is a volunteer for Journey Home Animal Rescue, which finds foster homes and forever homes for strays and surrendered animals across the region. With her long commute, she was able to bring many animals to their new home. “Over several years, hundreds of passengers, and thousands of miles, I’ve met plenty of great animals and selfless volunteers,” she says. Less time in the car may mean less furry passengers, but it does give her more time for other volunteer tasks with the organization, and more time for her hobbies. Learn more about Amy by reading her answers below.