# Speaker Resources

## **Slide Templates**

A MidCamp themed slide template is available for the speakers who would like to use it.

- [Google Slides format](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1tUA9ae4KR84KJfh1Xv2Vcqsh3I8pKZmsv-ngOU-pBcU/edit)
  - When logged in to your Google account select "File" -> "Make a copy" to create your own version for editing.
  - Footer text can be edited via "View" -> "Theme Builder"
- To use the slides in PowerPoint format - select "File" -> "Download as" -> "Microsoft PowerPoint"

( [Fonts used in the presentation](https://drive.google.com/open?id=1c6rgLesXnKD9HvbBsmI8uTMP6Zxk4fGT) can be downloaded as well if needed)

## **Speaker Slides**

You may use whatever slide deck you desire. We request that you include the following slides from the Google Slide template in your presentation:

- Title Page
- Contribution Day slide

### **Accessibility**

As you prepare your slides, please be mindful of accessibility. Below are tips to keep in mind:

- **Structure & Layout:** Use built-in slide templates (Slide Master) to ensure correct reading order. Every slide must have a unique, descriptive title.
- **Text & Fonts:** Use the suggested fonts, [available for download](https://drive.google.com/open?id=1c6rgLesXnKD9HvbBsmI8uTMP6Zxk4fGT), at a minimum size of 24 points for body text. Avoid using images of text.
- **Visuals & Alt Text:** Add concise alternative text to all images, graphs, and charts. Mark purely decorative images as "decorative".
- **Color & Contrast:** Ensure a high contrast ratio between text and background (e.g., black text on white background). Do not use color alone to convey meaning (e.g., "the red items" should be labeled differently).
- **Tables:** Use simple table structures, avoiding merged or split cells, and define header rows.
- **Links:** Use descriptive text for hyperlinks (e.g., "View the 2024 Report" instead of "Click here").
- **Multimedia:** Include closed captions and audio descriptions for videos.
- **Validation:**  For PowerPoint use the built-in Microsoft Accessibility Checker to identify and fix errors.

For Google Slides you can use the 'Grackle Slides' or 'Accessibility Checker for Slides' add-ons.

We highly suggest that you use a format other than iWork Keynote as there is no good way to check accessibility in the iWork suite.

**During the Presentation:**

- **Verbally Describe:** Describe all visuals, charts, and graphs to the audience.
- **Read Slides:** Verbally read the content on the slides, do not just summarize, as some audience members may rely on it.
- **Provide Materials:** Offer a,accessible version (e.g., accessible PDF or PPTX) to participants in advance.

## **Session Setup**

Speakers should arrive at their session room 10-15 minutes early for setup.

## **Virtual Speaker Resources**

If you will be presenting remotely, your session is also a Hybrid session where the session will be displayed on a projector in the assigned room on-site. Please review the separate embedded [Virtual Speaker Resources Packet](/content/sessions/virtual-speaker-resources-packet/index.html) for additional details.

## **Needs-Based Speaker Travel Grant**

MidCamp is committed to being accessible to anyone and everyone who is interested in learning and participating in our community. The Needs-Based Speaker Travel Grant is available for speakers who need assistance covering the costs of hotel, food, and travel. Grants are available for up to $600. To apply, email us at [info@midcamp.org](mailto:info@midcamp.org).

## **Questions?**

email: [info@midcamp.org](mailto:info@midcamp.org)