2016 Governor’s Awards

The Governor’s office honors the hard work and dedication of people with disabilities in the workforce, as well as efforts by employers in fostering an inclusive environment in their respective businesses.

Congratulations to the 2016 Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence winners, including DRTC Employment Services Program participants Markus Mullin and Clay Stephens who both work at St. Ann’s Retirement Center, and to Ken Holt with Embassy Suites in Norman, Oklahoma, who received a Business Award for hiring people with disabilities.

Denise Young, DRTC Employment Training Specialist, said in her nomination of Stephens, “His upbeat personality and willingness to work hard has really impressed the staff at St. Ann’s.”

Mullin, who also works at St. Ann’s, also received an Award of Excellence. “He anticipates what needs to be done and does it before being asked,” said Young in her nomination letter.

Embassy Suites in Norman was one of several companies receiving an award in the Business category. The hotel hires individuals through DRTC’s Employment Services department. Embassy Suites is also the business partner for Project SEARCH to provide job skills training, support and career exploration in a variety of entry level positions and internships. Project SEARCH at Embassy Suites also includes Norman Public Schools, the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services and the National Center for Disability Education and Training.