Anna Zelinske, Starkloff Disability Institute

Dignity of Risk – The Right to Fail

This interactive session centers on the concept of dignity of risk, especially as it relates to people with disabilities—the right to make choices, take chances, and experience the full spectrum of life, including failure. Participants will explore how this principle applies in both personal and professional contexts, and how supporting autonomy and self-determination fosters true inclusion. Through reflection and group activities, we’ll challenge assumptions, normalize failure as a part of growth, and empower one another to embrace risk as a pathway to learning and independence.

Anna Zelinske, MA, CRC, CCM Director of Programs at Starkloff Disability Institute

Anna’s work in the disability field began in 1999 as a direct care assistant supporting people with developmental disabilities while working for the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Anna has a bachelor's degree in psychology, a minor in Human Service Agency Management, and is a graduate of the Maryville University Rehabilitation Counseling program. Anna is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Certified Case Manager with experience in administration, adult day services, agency funding, program development, program direction, rare disease management, end of life concerns, public policy and advocacy, disability pride, LGBTQAI+ issues and more. Anna has a strong passion for supporting people in her community and respects the need for autonomy and control that we all wish to maintain throughout our lives.