As told by Dan Bussani, CEO & Co-Owner, Bussani Mobility Team
At Bussani Mobility Team, we’re not just in the business of selling and servicing wheelchair accessible vehicles—we’re in the business of transforming lives. One of the most rewarding ways we do that is by sharing our knowledge with the next generation of professionals who will soon be on the front lines of supporting people with disabilities.
Each semester, I’m honored to present a guest lecture to the occupational therapy students at Touro College—and at other local schools—on all things automotive for people with disabilities. The session includes a brief PowerPoint overview, but the real star of the show is always the live demo of one of our wheelchair accessible vans. And let’s just say, seeing is believing.
Occupational therapy students at Touro College with Dan Bussani touring an accessible van.
When students see the ramp unfold, the lowered floor design in action, and get a chance to sit inside a fully adapted van, something clicks. They begin to truly understand how accessible vehicles open doors—literally and figuratively—for people who rely on them every day.
Dan Bussani demonstrating the wheelchair accessible ramp.
We recently had an especially impactful session at Touro’s East Islip campus, and I want to give a shoutout to the team who helped bring it to life.
Joining me was Eli Shore from Tri-Boro Driver Rehab Specialists. Eli is a driver rehab expert—and a first responder—who brought along his training vehicle, a Lexus fully equipped with adaptive driving technology. From hand controls to pedal extensions, footrests, cushions, and more, his car serves as the perfect hands-on tool for understanding how someone with physical limitations can safely learn to drive.
Eli & Vinny showing OT students the features of an accessible van for people with disabilities.
Driving aids in a BraunAbility accessible van from Bussani Mobility.
Eli showing a Lexus with customized mobility equipment.
We were also lucky to be joined by our own Vincent Ficarrotta—a Bussani customer who now works on our team. Vinny lives with arthrogryposis and uses a power wheelchair. Eli taught him how to drive about 12 years ago, and today, Vinny drives one of the most advanced mobility vehicles on the market.
Vinny shared his personal story with the students, offering a firsthand look into what it takes to transition into the working world with a disability. From navigating the New York State Vocational Rehab system to gaining independence through mobility, his journey added a powerful layer of real-world context to the lecture.
Spreading awareness for mobility vehicles in the classroom at Touro College.
This is what it’s all about … human connection, accessibility, and education. The next generation of occupational therapists will be vital allies for people with disabilities, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to help them start their careers with this critical knowledge.
Thanks again to Touro College for the warm welcome and to Eli and Vinny for making this an unforgettable session. We look forward to the next one!
If you want to schedule a live demo or educational session for your school or organization, call 914-873-1181 or email me at Bussani Mobility Team, and let’s work together to educate and empower the professionals who will shape the future of accessible living.