“Dr. Michael Gamel-McCormick has spent his career as a tireless champion for people with disabilities and their families. Colleagues describe him as an unparalleled advocate whose leadership in academia, federal policy, and national disability rights has had a measurable and lasting impact. His work in early childhood intervention, his deep commitment to inclusion, and his exceptional skill in shaping federal disability and health policy have ensured that critical programs—from IDEA to Medicaid—continue to support and empower families. Widely respected for his wisdom, generosity, and unwavering dedication, Dr. Gamel-McCormick is celebrated as both a visionary educator and a trusted policy strategist whose contributions have strengthened disability rights and improved countless lives.”

Biography

Dr. Michael Gamel-McCormick is a nationally recognized leader in disability policy, health care, and early childhood intervention. He has served as Senior Health Care Policy Analyst for the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, Disability Policy Director for the Senate Special Committee on Aging, and Associate Director for Research and Policy at AUCD. Earlier, he was a professor, department chair, and dean at the University of Delaware, where he directed the Center for Disabilities Studies. Dr. Gamel-McCormick has authored and helped enact numerous disability-related policies and legislation, championing family engagement, inclusion, and civil rights. He has also served on the AUCD Board as Treasurer and President, leaving a lasting impact on disability advocacy, education, and public policy.