Melissa Ortiz is a seasoned speaker and award-winning Toastmaster with experience speaking to audiences as large as 100,000. With extensive television and radio experience, she is often tapped to represent voices of people living with disabilities.
Melissa is available to serve as a keynote speaker for your event, to moderate or participate as a panelist in panel discussions, or to host your event.
She presents two popular keynotes that are both inspirational and include her personal story: “the 4 Rs of Authentic Living” and “All About the Letter ‘L’.” If you are looking for an inspiring and candid speaker who can share firsthand why babies should not be aborted if they are possibly going to have a disability, Melissa is the perfect choice for your event.
Speaking
Keynote speaker
Panel discussions
Hosting
Emcee
Panel moderation
Events
Speaking Endorsements
It is political malpractice for anyone to do anything on policy for people with disabilities and not first consult with Melissa Oritz and Capability Consulting.
Paul S. Teller, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President, Advancing American Freedom
One of my great fortunes in life was to work with Melissa Ortiz when she served as first Commissioner of Administration on Disabilities in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services... . She was most knowledgeable about the challenges facing people with disabilities, an outstanding advocate for the rights of the disabled, an expert on disability policy and the provisions of the ADA, and an innovative and excellent administrator. Congratulations on the founding of Capability Consulting which will contribute to the advancement of organizations dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans with disabilities. Given her vast experience as a national advocate for people with disabilities and an expert on policy, programs and services, Capability Consulting will become a significant national resource. Read more
Michael Marge, EdD
Melissa was a tremendous asset for the 2024 Tennessee Conference on Volunteerism and Service-Learning. Her workshops were professional, interactive, and engaging. She even volunteered to help when another workshop presenter dropped out. She filled that slot with grace and aplomb. As our panel moderator for one of our plenary sessions, she led the discussion with thoughtful and insightful questions and comments. Highly recommend Melissa if you want a high quality, knowledgeable presenter. Read more
Candace Taylor
Training & Special Projects Manager
Volunteer Tennessee
