Judy Warth, long time program manager and employment specialist for Iowa’s UCEDD, is the recipient of the 2025 Rik Shannon Disability Champion Award. Shannon dedicated his professional life to improving the lives of Iowans with disabilities during his 23 years as the Public Policy Manager at the Iowa DD Council.
Following his unexpected death in March 2025, the Iowa DD Council chose to present this annual award in his name. The award recognizes disability champions who, like Shannon, have devoted their careers to creating a more inclusive environment for people with disabilities by raising awareness, implementing positive changes, and advocating for equal opportunities.
Judy Warth has dedicated more than 30 years to advancing the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. Her experience spans direct care, employment support, sexual self-advocacy, mentorship, and more.
“Wow! I am so humbled by this,” Warth said. “Rik led so many critical initiatives and made such an impact. I am inspired and hope to share it with everyone that we carry on with the same passion, intelligence and humor that Rik embodied.”
Warth’s career accomplishments include: working with the Iowa City Community School District to help high school students prepare for work life after school; providing job coach training workshops for Iowa APSE (Association of People Supporting Employment First); working with self-advocates to support their success in a variety of endeavors, including leadership of the Iowa DD Council and participation in the LEND program at the University of Iowa; and co-hosting the Disability Exchange podcast.
Edward Esbeck, self-advocacy coordinator for Iowa’s UCEDD, was among those who nominated Warth for the award. “Judy helped me see myself in a positive way, which opened up wider doors for more opportunities for me,” Esbeck said. “She has helped me and many people with disabilities create the opportunities and the quality of life we all want.”
Learn more about the Iowa City Community School District’s Work Experience+ Program, managed by Warth. This long-standing and innovative partnership between Iowa’s UCEDD and the Iowa City Community School District provides staffing, consultation, and support for high school students in special education and those continuing in 4+ programming: https://cdd.center.uiowa.edu/iowa-city-community-school-district-work-experience-program
Listen to the Disability Exchange Podcast: https://cdd.center.uiowa.edu/disability-exchange-podcast
Get in touch with Meredith Field for questions: [email protected]
