Ivy Tech Receives 2005 Statewide Employer Award

March 8, 2006

Bloomington, Indiana - Ivy Tech Community College was presented with the 2005 Statewide Employer Award from Indiana APSE: The Network on Employment during Stone Belt's 2006 Business Recognition Ceremony. The awards were presented during National Disabilities Awareness Month to recognize outstanding contribution in promoting employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Ivy Tech began working with Stone Belt's Employment Services three years ago. Today, Suzanna Deckard, Ray Weber and Michael Murphy work together performing light janitorial duties such as collecting trash, sweeping floors, tidying restrooms and cleaning the Student Commons. Misha Durham works ten-hours a week as a clerical assistant.

"This experience has been so positive for all involved, that Stone Belt nominated Ivy Tech for the prestigious APSE Employer of the Year Award," said Ann Dininger, Monroe County Day Services Team Leader with Stone Belt. "Our staff and consumers appreciate the support, acceptance and affection that have been expressed by all at Ivy Tech on a daily basis. We are thrilled to be in partnership with this great institution."

John Whikehart, Ivy Tech Community College - Bloomington Chancellor, said that the credit for this honor belongs to the respective staffs at the college who work every day with the employees from Stone Belt. "This is a win-win relationship. Ivy Tech advances its regional goal of civic engagement by providing our Stone Belt partners with an opportunity to learn new skills, interact with students and staff, and contribute to the overall success of the college."

APSE: The Network on Employment is a membership organization formed in 1988 as the Association for Persons in Supported Employment to improve and expand integrated employment opportunities, services, and outcomes for persons experiencing disabilities.