The Governor’s Office of Disabilities Affairs recognized Lynn Stevens on Wednesday, December 7th at the Old State Capital as part of the Governor’s Outstanding Leadership in Disabilities (GOLD) Awards Ceremony. The Annual GOLD Awards is an opportunity for Louisiana to pay tribute to the achievements and dedication of individuals in the disability community.
Lynn Stevens has been selected as this year’s Patsy Barrett Memorial Award Winner. Patsy Barrett was a human rights activist, and initiated the GOLD Awards in 1982 to recognize people who work for equality, justice and dignity for people with disabilities. Ms. Barrett was also involved in policy development at the national level and worked with leaders who helped formulate the Americans with Disabilities Act into Federal Law.
“Ms. Stevens, Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana’s Director of Workforce Development, was selected for her leadership abilities and achiefvements as a disability advocate. Her inspiration and positive changes in the community have made North Louisiana a better place for all people”, said Lillian DeJean, Senior Coordinator of Office of Disabilities Affairs.
This year’s program will be live streamed on the Governor’s Office of Community Programs’ YouTube channel, as well as shown on local public stations across the state in the months following the GOLD Awards.
Other recipients of the 2022 GOLD Awards are:
Distinguished Merit Award: Kathy Dwyer, Metarie; Ken Vince Memorial Award: David Green, New Orleans
Educator of the Year: Dr. Charles Michel, Gray; April Dunn
Youth of the Year: Garrison St. Martin
Family of the Year: The Billings-Roger Family, Baton Rouge
Volunteer of the Year: Kathleen Cannino, Covington
Direct Support Person of the Year: Rodricka Winn, Shreveport
Elected Official of the Year: Representative Rodney Lyons, Harvey
Public Servant of the Year: Dr. John Schweitzer, Baton Rouge
Service Provider of the Year: Family & Youth Counseling, Lake Charles
Veteran of the Year: Sgt. Billy Robbins, Gonzales
Employer of the Year: Families Helping Familes of Southwest Louisiana
For more information or questions on the GOLD awards, contact the Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs at disability.affairs@la.gov or 225-219-7550.
