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 a special recognition certificate and a $100 gift card.
Deadline for entries is Friday November 6, 2026.
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.
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 achievements as a job coach, pre-ETS career 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.
Indiana APSE proudly recognizes Gunnar Crispen as the recipient of the Spring Student Spotlight Award. This award honors a student or recent graduate with a disability who has demonstrated exceptional growth, self-advocacy, resilience, and progress toward greater independence.
Employer Award: Kem Krest: Tyler Ewing & Pedro Lerena
Wendy M. Wood Award: Ellen Chaleff, Stone Belt Services
Lois Curtis Award: Shawn Fulton, The ARC of Indiana
Professional Award: Maeleen Hurley, Easterseals Crossroads
Rebecca McDonald Award: Brian Gilbert, The Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning
