Awards

Honoring Hoosiers
Advancing Employment

We promote and praise those working hard to advance employment for those with disabilities. Featuring quarterly awards honoring Employment Specialists and annual awards recognizing individuals with outstanding service in the field. We acknowledge employers who are true advocates for Employment First, including the terrific people who have joined the workforce and are succeeding in their life goals.

 
background blue INAPSE.png

Awards to Honor Outstanding Students and Employment specialists

Spotlight Awards

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Employment Specialist Spotlight

4th Quarter Nominations Are Open

Are you working with someone who embodies the very best qualities of an Employment Support Staff and you want to recognize them for their hard work? Here is your chance to Recognize a co-worker, a supervisor, or any other employment support staff that goes above and beyond in the things they do for individuals every day! (Plus, they will get $100 and a feature on the website)

Nominate a colleague for the “Spotlight” award to recognize the great work by employment specialists across the state.


Student Spotlight

Nominations Open Until November 8th 2024

The Indiana APSE Student Spotlight Award is designed to recognize a student or recent graduate with a disability who demonstrates achievement in overcoming obstacles, self-advocacy, and/or gaining greater independence. The winner of the Student Spotlight Award will receive 2 (two) free registrations for the IN-APSE conference on April 16th and 17th at the Horizon Convention Center in Muncie along with a $50 gift card.

Note: all entries must be accompanied by at least one letter of support from a school staff, parent or other family member, or other individual who knows the nominee well.

Spotlight Award Winners

 

background blue INAPSE.png

2024 Award Winners

Employer Award: Vickie Coffey with Richland Bean Blossom Community School Corp

Wendy M. Wood Award: Amanda Blaise, ADA Coordinator with Family and Social Services Administration

Dave Hammis Innovation Award: Jeff Patton - ARC of Wabash County

Best Practice Award: Blackford County Junior Senior High School

Lois Curtis Award: Noah Upchurch with Self-Advocates of Indiana

Lois Curtis Award: Libbi Higginbotham with Secure Shred

Professional Award: Aaron See with Bosma

Rebecca McDonald Award: Brian Pier with Walgreens

Kirles/Byrkett Consumer Advocacy Award: Mark J. Hublar with Mark J. Hublar Speaks

2024 National APSE Award Winners

Best Practice Award: Blackford County Junior Senior High School

Rebecca McDonald Award: Brian Pier

Lois Curtis Award: Libbi Higginbotham