Sachin Pavithran was born in India, but grew up in Dubai which is in the United Arab Emirates. Being legally blind, Sachin did not receive the accommodations that he needed to be independent. Sachin came to the US at the age of 17 to start his college career at Utah State University. He graduated from USU with a degree in Business Information Systems, and another degree in Marketing. Sachin received his Masters in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling at Utah State University. Sachin Dev Pavithran is currently the Assistive Technology Specialist and the Disability Law and Policy Coordinator for the Center for Persons with Disabilities. Sachin enjoys being an advocate for people with disabilities. He keeps up with the research and development of various assistive technologies, and is involved nationally in working with legislators in the Federal Government to bring a change in various Federal Policies for the benefit of individuals with disabilities. He has reached out to the international community on Disability Policy and Infra Structure Development based on the requirements set forth by the UNCRPD. He has trained and presented in several countries such as Egypt, Syria, Philippines etc. Sachin has over ten years of direct involvement in development, testing, and training for accessibility for assistive technology, extensive experience in lecturing and training others in accessible technology. Sachin provides technical assistance on accessible information technology for individuals and groups. He helps in the evaluation of products related to web accessibility and design. He sits on various boards nationally, such as, The Research and Development committee for the National Federation of the Blind, The National Multicultural Council, Senator Hatch's Advisory board for disability policy, and The National Clearing House for Rehabilitation Training Materials.

Professional PRofile

Over thirteen years’ experience working in the disability field and with individuals with disabilities. Experience includes budget management, personnel management, research and training of assistive technology, design, development, and evaluation of accessible websites, and consulting for organizations on disability policy both nationally and internationally.  Extensive experience with program implementation and evaluation in accordance with granting agencies’ guidelines.  In-depth knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Rehabilitation Act, Randolph Shepard Act, Developmental Disabilities Act (DD Act), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).  Extensive involvement in policy development for passing legislation in Congress to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.