Miami recognized for leadership in hiring individuals with disabilities

Kevin Miller, from Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, presents President Greg Crawford the Champion award recognizing Miami University.

Miami University received a Champion of Opportunity award for its commitment and leadership in hiring individuals with disabilities.

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities honors companies that have gone above and beyond in their commitment and serve as statewide examples of what it means to provide quality employment opportunities and increased independence for individuals with disabilities. Miami is one of only two schools of higher education that have received this award.

“Miami is a leader in embracing the culture of inclusion,” said Kevin Miller, director of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities. “Miami understands that people with disabilities also strive to have a purpose and have a chance to be a productive member of society.”

To date, 17 people seeking jobs through the help from Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities are now employed at Miami.

Manager training a part of hiring program

Miller added that Miami strives to have an inclusive environment ensuring that any staff member involved in any aspect of interviewing is encouraged to participate in Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities’ Windmills and Disability Awareness training. Six workshops have been offered.

During a ceremony on Tuesday, Dec. 5, Miami staff members were recognized for their efforts in spearheading initiatives that continue to bring awareness to issues faced by employees with disabilities.

Those staff members are: Gary Barnes, Heather Bechtol, Brenda Curry, Becky Dysart, Denise Ison, Mary Jane Leveline, Tami Moore, Theresa Murphy, Rachel Rude, Jeff Shaver, Mike Savnik and Leigh Swigart. They coordinated recruitment efforts, led mentor programs and training sessions using resources provided by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.

Miami President Greg Crawford said, “This award highlights our commitment to advance Miami University by removing all barriers to people with disabilities.”

In addition, Miami received a grant by the Cincinnati USA Chamber of Commerce from the Department of Labor for the Diverse by Design initiative. Upon receiving the grant, Miami sent several of their students with disabilities for a job shadowing week in the Greater Cincinnati area.