"It's important that Special Education Teachers and Speech Pathologists are able to think outside of the box."
In 2013, I began going to colleges and universities in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut to teach classes of students studying to be Speech/Language Pathologists and Special Education Teachers. In 2020, I expanded my outreach when I started delivering my lectures through Zoom. Now every year I am educating and inspiring classes of students in-person and through distance teaching at more than 50 colleges and universities throughout the United States.
My lectures are both educational and informative. I talk honestly about my personal life, so the students hear from someone who has actually experienced being a special education student and has had to learn to use Augmentative & Alternative Communication. The students also get a chance to ask questions of someone who was born with multiple disabilities and has faced many challenges in his life.
Miles Forma is the kind of teacher who not only delivers strong academic instruction but also nurtures something deeper to the students: empathy, curiosity, and a genuine understanding of others. What truly sets Miles apart is the way he shares his passion and deep commitment to disability awareness. He doesn’t just teach content—with personal stories and experiences he opens up conversations that help future teachers see the world through a more compassionate and inclusive lens.
Meeting Miles and hearing his story was one of the highlights of my academic career. His passion and sincerity comes across with humor and open storytelling.
Miles is a lecturer who goes beyond just speaking to students; he shows genuine care in connecting with those he's speaking to and wants to know about each person's interests and passions.
Miles's advocacy and expertise in AAC not only enriched our students’ understanding but also inspired meaningful reflection that will stay with them throughout their careers. His ability to connect theory with lived experience is incredibly powerful; his stories and insights help illuminate the real-world impact of AAC in ways that textbooks simply cannot. I’m always especially grateful for the way Miles engages with our students—his openness and authenticity makes a lasting impression. Miles is a strong voice for individuals with complex communication needs and my students are truly fortunate to have him present each semester.