Ever met those people who seem to give 110% in everything they do? People who leave an impression on those around them? People who inspire you to be better than the day before? Well we’d like to take the opportunity to say thank you to a few of them now through our Summit DD Appreciation Awards.
This year Summit DD began a new tradition. To show our gratitude to all those who stand with us and support our mission, we are hosting an Appreciation Breakfast and Awards Ceremony. This inaugural celebration recognizes the achievements of self-advocates, supporters and community partners who are actively helping to shape communities so that they are welcoming for people of every ability.
We received many nominations for deserving individuals, groups and leaders, and narrowing the categories to a single winner in each wasn’t easy. However, it is with great joy that we would like to announce the following winners of our appreciation awards. Through their dedication and support, these remarkable people and organizations have helped empower children and adults with developmental disabilities in Summit County.
Appreciation Award Winners
Congratulations to Liniform, Linen and Uniform Service as the winners of the Innovative Partner Award. This award honors an organization in our community whose innovative program has helped empower individuals with developmental disabilities to connect with their community in a more meaningful way. Liniform, Linen and Uniform Service’s dedication to creating an inclusive work environment embodies our vision of a community built by the abilities of ALL citizens.
Congratulations to Todd Eisinger as the Carlene Weaver Achievement Award recipient. This is awarded to an individual with a developmental disability whose actions or self-advocacy has helped to bring about positive awareness for those with disabilities in our community. Todd’s success as a Special Olympian, entrepreneur and self-advocate has spread awareness throughout Summit County.
Congratulations to Barb Jones who is the recipient of the Dottie Schrum Culture Award meant to recognize an exceptional employee within the field whose actions have gone above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Barb’s commitment and dedication to supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities in Summit County is truly inspiring.
The Public Leader of the Year Award goes to Mayor Sara Drew of Stow, Ohio. Congratulations! This award recognizes an elected leader in our community who, through their leadership, helps to ensure communities are more inclusive and that citizens of all abilities have a voice in their community. Mayor Drew’s dedication, advocacy and continued support for Summit DD’s mission has strengthened our community.
Congratulations to Shon Christy as the winner of the Community Impact Award, which honors an individual who has made a big impact in the developmental disabilities community through advocacy, awareness efforts or a special project. Shon’s endless work and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities is truly inspiring.
We would also like to thank the many nominees who work tireless to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities in Summit County.
Innovative Partner Award nominees include Rev. Dr. David A Maker, Mary Ellen and Gen Atwood from First United Methodist Church – Rejoicing Spirits; METRO; The Blick Clinic; and Senior Independence.
Carlene Weaver Achievement Award nominees include Amanda B, Don R, Stephen H, Colleen K, Dedra N, Darick F, and Craig W.
Dottie Schrum Culture Award nominees include Kristen Olesky, Haylee DeSonne, Jenna Allen, Rosie Howard, and Tammy Ackerman.
Public Leader of the Year Award nominees include Judge Elinore Marsh Stormer and Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio.
Community Impact Award nominees include Spartan Sparkles Cheerleaders; Brent Valentine; Lowery Lockard; Chris Griffith; Tony Malorni; Mariam Crow, Pa Kou (Amy) Xiong, Nathan Nicholas, Christopher Halley, and Kenneth Hutson; and Theresa “Tess” Flannery.
Congratulations to all of our award winners and nominees! Your outstanding efforts are helping to build inclusive communities for people of all abilities. These individuals and organizations will also be recognized at Summit DD’s Appreciation Breakfast and Awards Celebration on Tuesday, March 29, featuring keynote speaker Summit County Executive, Russ Pry.
