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.
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.
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.
Aaron was nominated by Ashley Hill and Malisha Mahon of Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana. Aaron is a former student of Woodlan Junior/Senior High School. During his high school career, he overcame many obstacles including language and comprehension issues..
The winner of this quarter’s award is Amelia Begley an Employment Specialist...
INAPSE wants to recognize individuals with outstanding service in the field, acknowledge employers who are true advocates for Employment First, as well as recognize the terrific people who have joined the workforce and are succeeding in their life goals. Please take some time and nominate individuals, businesses and other stakeholders for the great work that they do!! If you want to nominate someone and you are not a member, please contact INAPSE.
Personal Achievement Award - To confer recognition of a supported employee for outstanding achievement in employment. This award is to recognize personal achievement in overcoming obstacles resulting in successful employment.
Wendy Wood Award - To recognize an emerging leader in the field of supported employment who demonstrates active and effective leadership in moving toward complete involvement of people with disabilities into the community.
Consumer Advocacy Scholarship Award - To recognize outstanding community employment advocacy efforts in Indiana by, and for, individuals with disabilities.
Public Policy Award -To distinguish an individual who has excelled in advocacy work around Employment First.
Professional Award - To confer recognition for outstanding professional achievement as a job coach, job developer, employment specialist or state agency personnel.
Rebecca McDonald Award - This award is offered to successful APSE Chapter Leaders who demonstrate the spirit of volunteerism and extraordinary commitment to the mission and vision of APSE in their work with their state chapter.
Employer Award - To recognize employers in the public and private sector for outstanding achievement in enhancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Best Practice Award - To confer recognition to innovation, imagination and exemplary performance in supported employment.
Dave Hammis Innovation Award - To honor Dave’s contributions to APSE and Employment First, this award is offered to individuals or organizations who demonstrate innovation in the area of technology, customized strategies, and/or self-employment for individuals with significant disabilities.
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
Best Practice Award: Blackford County Junior Senior High School
Rebecca McDonald Award: Brian Pier
Lois Curtis Award: Libbi Higginbotham
