New Orleans, Louisiana (July 10, 2025): The National Federation of the Blind, the transformative membership and advocacy organization of blind Americans, proudly presented its Blind Educator of the Year Award to Maurice Peret, a distinguished orientation and mobility instructor, during its annual national convention. The award was given on July 10 before the Federation’s Board of Directors and thousands of assembled members and guests.

Maurice Peret currently serves as an orientation and mobility instructor in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he empowers blind individuals to travel safely and confidently with a long white cane. A dedicated professional with more than two decades of experience in the field, Peret holds the National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC), issued by the National Blindness Professional Certification Board. His instruction is rooted in the Structured Discovery methodology and the Federation’s belief in blind people.

Throughout his career, Peret has exemplified excellence in teaching and has served as a role model to blind students and fellow professionals alike. His work is distinguished by a commitment to high expectations, student empowerment, and a deep belief in the capacity of blind people to determine their own path.

“We recognize Maurice not only for his skill as an educator, but for his unwavering dedication to the Federation’s core values,” said Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind. “His decades of mentoring and service have helped to shape a generation of confident, independent blind travelers.”

The Blind Educator of the Year Award, which carries a 1,000 dollar cash prize, is presented annually to an outstanding blind teacher or education professional who has made a significant contribution to the lives of blind students.