GCPD: Michael J. Falconer Distinguished Service Award
Michael Falconer served as model of commitment and perseverance to persons with and without disabilities. As a person with a disability, Michael demonstrated to others how overwhelming odds could be overcome with imagination, humor, and hard work. As a relentless advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities to lead meaningful lives, Michael pushed the system to respond to the needs of all its citizens.
The Michael J. Falconer Distinguished Service Award was developed to recognize an individual who has carried on Michael's tradition of being an agent for change. The individual recognized by this award has demonstrated extreme involvement in advocacy activities, and has had an impact on improved service or access to the community for people living with disabilities.
Recipients:
Throughout his advocacy career, Ben Barrett has been a huge champion for rights for citizens for people of all abilities. Whether it be pumping gas, providing transportation, educating individuals about the history of the disability movement or being the chair of the Wisconsin Council on Physical Disabilities, his contributions to the people of Wisconsin have been outstanding.
Jimmy Anderson served the 47th Assembly District in Wisconsin, which includes the Fitchburg and Stoughton areas. He authored Assembly Bill 1206, which provides medical and mental health care leave for veterans in Wisconsin.
Additionally, he authorized Assembly Bill 785, requiring hospitals to provide each patient with a plain language, itemized bill that includes an explanation of all charges.
Elizabeth Watson has been an active teacher, advocate, and practitioner in the disability field for more than 30 years. Through her work at Society's Assets, she has developed and promoted resources, built peer support and mentoring programs, and provided advocacy for independent living.
She is perhaps best known for her active leadership supporting college students with disabilities, creating a research and service center focusing on community engagement and support for students with disabilities. Her active work among post-secondary students began at UW-Whitewater and is now influencing the greater University of Wisconsin system. She is widely recognized as a leader in disability awareness, advocacy, leadership, and professional training. For all of these reasons and more, the Governor's Committee for People with Disabilities is pleased to present Dr. Elizabeth Watson with the Michael J. Falconer Distinguished Service Award.
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