The 14th Annual Awards Ceremony was held Thursday, October 2, at The Bain Center in Columbia.

Winners in seven award categories were honored:

Employer:

River Hill Sports Grille – The River Hill Sports Grille was nominated for their commitment to advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Howard County.

Service Provider:

The Arc of Howard County – The Arc of Howard County was nominated for providing the necessary supports for full community participation specifically in the area of employment.

Educator:

John Wyseman – John Wyseman, a work study/transition teacher at Reservoir High School, was nominated for demonstrating creativity and flexibility as well as developing instructional methods customized to meet each student’s learning style.

Accessibility–Universal Design:

Jay Raksin – Jay Raksin was nominated for creating barrier free solutions resulting in improved daily life for people with disabilities.

Individual Achievement:

Deanna A. Green – Deanna Green was nominated because she is an outstanding role model, mentor, community advocate and educator.

Individual Youth Achievement:

Mirza Rayyan Baig – Rayyan Baig was nominated for achievements and involvement in a wide range of school and personal development activities.

Commission Achievement:

Joanne Piersall – Joanne Piersall was nominated for bringing extraordinary passion, leadership, vision, and skill to her position as vice chair of the Commission on Disability Issues.

For more information on the event or to arrange to interview the winners, please call Erica Lewis, Disabilities Services Specialist, at 410-313-6402 or TTY 410-313-6401.