Students with Disabilities Honored at CEC 2005 Convention & Expo
Join CEC and the Yes I Can Foundation in congratulating their 2005 Yes I Can Winners. Twenty-seven students with disabilities were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments at the 2005 CEC Awards Ceremony.
Academics
Nick Cugini
Texas
Nick Cugini, 13, excels academically in his upper level classes. Consistently on the honor roll, Nick has received numerous academic awards. This young man, who has cerebral palsy, is a natural leader who has had a tremendous impact on his fellow students with regard to creativity, drive, and a focus on goals and purpose. Nick is also a fantastic fundraiser, earning $350 for his church's summer mission trip. Congratulations, Nick, on your many successes.
Blair Douglass
Pennsylvania
"Yes I Can" has long been the motto of Blair Douglas, 16. With this as his guide, he attained his goal of attending a public high school, even though he is blind, and maintains an "A" average in honors classes. He has been selected for the Dean's List, was chosen Student of the Year, and is a member of the Debate Team. Blair gives 110 percent to everything he undertakes, from his own academic progress to helping his peers succeed. He is the epitome of an honor student.
Caroline Reeger
Maryland
Though Caroline Reeger, 14, has learning disabilities in reading and writing, she refuses to let it impede her academic success. Caroline constantly challenges herself, writing stories and poems and reading books above grade level. In addition to her academic achievements, she serves on the yearbook staff and Student Council and is a Junior Park Ranger. Caroline hopes to become an elementary school teacher. We are sure she will achieve her goal and continue to inspire others with her determination.
Arts
José Emanuel Alvarado
Florida
José Alvarado, 11, who has autism, has been drawing since he was a young child. He shows his reading comprehension through creative pictures, and his cartoons capture everyone's attention. While José continues to improve his technique, he is also using artistic insight, imagination, and enthusiasm to create his artwork -- all without formal training. José, your art brings joy to others as well as yourself.
Brian Corey Campbell
Virginia
Brian Campbell, 18, shines at the visual arts. This creative artist, who has multiple disabilities, is the force behind the wall mural at Thalia Elementary School, performing the painting, art, and color scheme. Brian has also developed art for the school staff, holiday bags, and community events. In addition, Brian is an excellent student and is always willing to help others. Brian, your art speaks eloquently of your wonderful attitude and spirit.
Clark Alan Durland
Oklahoma
Clark Durland, 20, is a talented musician. Clark, who has Down syndrome, has participated in numerous musical venues, including the JHS Concert Chorus, a CD that includes a song by Clark, and lip-syncing at the Oklahoma Special Olympics. He also worked on the set design for Grease and Peter Pan. In recognition of his musical skill, Clark was selected for the Oklahoma Ambassadors of Music European Concert Tour. Clark, you are a remarkable young man.
Athletics
Brittany Mulkey
Florida
Through hard work and determination, Brittany Mulkey, 17, who has cerebral palsy, is an outstanding athlete. She won six gold medals at the National Junior Disability Championships and is nominated to represent the United States in the Cerebral Palsy World Games. Additionally, she is a member of the BlazeSports Tampa Bay sports program and a cheerleader, and she holds a 3.6 GPA. Brittany is a shining example for all.
Diane Nichols
Ohio
Diane Nichols, 20, is an accomplished athlete. This young woman with cognitive disabilities is an award-winning skier. She has consistently won gold medals in Special Olympics and has been selected to compete at the World Winter Special Olympics twice. Diane just won three medals in Japan this winter! She also competes in Special Olympics swimming, basketball, and track and field. Diane, you show all the qualities of an exemplary athlete!
Shawn Salamone
Ohio
Shawn Salamone, 19, is a master wrestler. He has placed in his league, section, and district, and he hopes to qualify for state this year. Through his wrestling, Shawn has become a leader and shows others that disabilities, such as deafness and blindness, are only as limiting as you allow them to be. Through wrestling, Shawn also earned a scholarship to Gallaudet University for 2005-06. Shawn, you are an inspiration to us all!
Community Service
Paul McGregor
Manitoba
Throughout his high school career, Paul McGregor, 17, has given his time and talents to worthy organizations. He has volunteered with the YMCA, assisting with their preschool "You and Me Kids Club," as well as spent time with seniors at Central Park Lodge. He also assists at the Brandon Regional Health Centre, Rogers Video, and Compu Smart. This engaging young man, who has cerebral palsy, is always polite, friendly, and upbeat. Paul, you bring much happiness to others in your community.
Anthony Washington
Washington, D.C.
Anthony Washington, 18, works at the Veterans' Hospital Nursing Home. There, Anthony, who has cognitive and speech disabilities, greets patients, initiates conversations with peers and patients, and starts and completes tasks. He is a welcome addition to the staff and brings a smile to the patients. Thank you, Anthony, for giving of yourself to others.
Melvin Wells
Washington, D.C.
Melvin Wells, 21, who has cognitive disabilities, has volunteered in his community for two years. Last year he worked at Vision DC and the Food Bank, and this year he assists at the Veterans' Hospital. Melvin has developed important relationships with the patients, greeting them and engaging them in conversation. Melvin, by giving of yourself, you brighten others' days.
Employment
Fred Crump
Mississippi
Fred Crump, 21, is an exemplary employee who learns new jobs quickly and takes the initiative to perform tasks. Cognitive disabilities have not stopped him from successfully holding positions involving custodial responsibilities, retailing, and food services. Fred also possesses excellent supervisory skills and often mentors his classmates with patience and compassion. In addition to a wonderful work ethic, Fred always has a sunny disposition and kind word. "Fred is, quite simply, an outstanding young man."
Tanya Guht
Ohio
Tanya Guht, 17, excels at her job. Tanya, who has a learning disability, performs custodial work at Glen Oak High School. She has excellent attendance, exhibits responsibility, and takes the initiative to achieve to the highest standards. In addition, Tanya has taken Drivers' Education, gotten a license, a car, and insurance, and she has learned how to manage her earnings. Congratulations, Tanya, for a job well done.
Brennan Harris
Virginia
Brennan Harris, 14, is a model employee. Brennan started working in a self-contained classroom business but was so good he was hired to work in its retail establishment. Brennan's emotional disorders receded into the background as he interacted with customers. His teacher says he was "one of my best and most reliable employees." Brennan now serves as a role model for other students, supervising them in the classroom portion of the business and motivating them to achieve his status-paid employment. Congratulations, Brennan, for a job well done! Extracurricular Activity
Ashley Brooke Gatlin
Texas
Rather than being an impediment, a hearing impairment has spurred Ashley Gatlin, 18, on to achieve her goals. Ashley has been a cheerleader, member of the Student Council, member of the basketball and softball teams, winner of high school rodeos, pianist, and a participant in Students for Christ. Ashley was also selected as homecoming queen, named to Who's Who Among American High School Students, and is a Texas Globe scholar. Ashley, you are a remarkable young lady.
Matthew Craig Mills
Virginia
Matthew Mills, 12, loves being with people and doing things for people. He participates in Boy Scouts, Challenger League Baseball, church activities, and the school Pep Club. And even though he has significant health problems, Matty immediately acted to save the life of his baby cousin, who fell into a swimming pool. For this, Matty received the Boy Scout's second highest award, the Honor Medal. Matty, you are a hero -- in every sense of the word.
Luke Weinberg
North Dakota
Luke Weinberg, 15, who has Down syndrome, has a "go get em" attitude, and his involvement in extracurricular activities leaves one breathless. Luke wrestles, bowls, snow skis, plays basketball and soccer, and does Tai Kwan Do. He participates in Special Olympics, Young Life, and Boy Scouts. You can't slow Luke down!
Independent Living Skills
Heidi Evans
Minnesota
Heidi Evans, 21, is on her way to independent living. This young woman, who has Down syndrome, used to be reluctant to try things on her own. Today, she works at an assisted job skills placement center where she performs various jobs. She also rides local transportation to her job, and makes friends easily. Heidi, there's no stopping you now!
Kathy Westcott
Ohio
Kathy Westcott, 17, is learning to become an independent adult. A cognitive disability hasn't stopped Kathy from learning occupational and life skills. She budgets her money, is responsible for her own transportation, uses a daily planner to stay organized, sets and achieves goals, and is always prepared for classes. In addition, Kathy is a valued employee in the Hospitality Program and was selected as Employee of the Month. Congratulations, Kathy, on your excellent progress.
Zachary Williams
Ohio
Zachary Williams, 12, has progressed from a reserved student with limited communication skills to one who takes on new challenges with aplomb. He now travels throughout his middle school with confidence, volunteers to answer questions in class, initiates conversations, tells people his needs, and makes friends. Zachary is also a student who goes beyond what is asked of him, such as writing extra letters to raise funds for a D.C. auction. Congratulations, Zach, on your excellent progress.
Self Advocacy
Sara Donnelly
Wyoming
Sara Donnelly, 15, who has visual impairments, has become an engaged student and member of her community. Sara is a member of the Student Council and Future Farmers of America, and she often serves as a teacher's assistant. She is respected and appreciated by her peers and teachers. Sara hopes to have her own animal grooming business after she graduates from college. Sara, you have learned to make good choices, and your future is bright.
Robert "Chad" Snedegar
Ohio
Nothing can keep Chad Snedegar, 20, down -- not a learning disability, brain surgery, open-heart surgery, or the leukemia for which his is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Chad's self-advocacy is seen in his never-failing optimism and undaunted spirit. He meets every challenge head on and gives 100 percent to achieving his goals. Chad recently graduated from high school and is now attending the Fairfield Career Center. Chad, your continued perseverance and strength of character inspire us all.
Caitlin, Vorland
Ohio
Caitlin Vorland, 17, is an extraordinary self-advocate. Caitlin, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor, understands how her disability affects her, knows how she learns best, and assists others in assisting her. She also devises adaptations that enable her to succeed with a challenging course load. Additionally, Caitlin was selected to attend the Congressional Student Leadership Conference, and she volunteers at Children's Hospital. She will enroll at Wright State University this fall. Caitlin, Wright State is lucky to have you!
Technology
Chelsey Dodge
Wyoming
A visual impairment is no barrier to high academic achievement for 15-year-old Chelsey Dodge. This Honor Roll student helps select technology to help her progress academically and has learned numerous programs she operates independently. Chelsey is also a counselor at a camp for individuals with blindness, where she teaches the campers, including adults, how to use technology and other assistive devices. Chelsey, congratulations on your many achievements, and thank you for sharing your knowledge with others.
Andre Harris
Washington, D.C
Through technology, Andre Harris, 21, has advanced his vocational skills. This young man with cognitive disabilities is a budding graphic artist. He uses his talent to participate in community activities, work with peers in a sharing environment, and take on a leadership role. Andre, your contributions to the community and your peers are much appreciated.
Rosalie Platt
Illinois
Rosalie Platt, 20, who has visual impairments and learning disabilities, uses technology to reach the world. A full-time college student, Rosalie volunteers at Community TV Network, where she makes videos. Her most recent film, My Pain, My Gain, is the story of her struggle to get an education and the first of her series on youth with disabilities. Rosalie also helps train younger students in film and editing. Rosalie, your mastery of technology will pave the way for others to achieve in this area.
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