Recognizes an individual who has developed or influenced company disability employment programs and/or services that resulted in measurable, significant, and positive outcomes, dramatically improving disability employment opportunities.
- Nominations open: March 22
- Award Announcement/Reception: The award recipient will be recognized and receive their award at a special ceremony during the 2022 Wisconsin Ability Summit, held at Rockwell Automation on Thursday, October 13, 2022. The award winner will be notified prior to the event.
The Derek Smith Leadership Award for Disability Inclusion recognizes an individual who has developed or influenced company disability employment programs and/or services that resulted in measurable, significant, and positive outcomes, dramatically improving disability employment opportunities. Award winners are acknowledged as visionary brands and individuals that are advancing disability employment.
Derek Smith, Commercial Banking EXEC, SVP, Old National Bank, was key in the formation of Disability:IN Wisconsin having been involved in discussions over the years that led to the statewide affiliate being formed in 2019. Derek was the organization’s first Board Chair from 2019-to 2021.
Under Derek’s leadership DIsability:IN Wisconsin grew inboard and membership representation across Wisconsin industries. He stayed focused on creating a business culture for disability inclusion, building talent pipelines, and aligning skills and needs to get individuals with disabilities employed. Derek is a leader in disability inclusion and this annual award is a tribute to his leadership and commitment over the years.
