2015 AUCD Special Recognition Award

November 17, 2015

AUCD Executive Director Andy Imparato presents the award to Catherine Lhamon

The AUCD Special Recognition Award is presented to an individual, group, or organization outside of the AUCD network, to recognize outstanding contributions toward creating more inclusive communities for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

Catherine Lhamon, JD

Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
US Department of Education

In Recognition of Your Leadership, Advocacy, and Commitment
to Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and their Families

"Since assuming the role of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights in August of 2013, Catherine has been a strong champion for the civil rights of children with disabilities and all children. Under her leadership, the OCR has documented how children with disabilities are subject to a disproportionate level of discipline and are more likely to attend schools that have fewer resources to meet their needs. Catherine is dedicated to making sure data about education outcomes and resources for children with disabilities and children from other disadvantaged groups is made publicly available at the community level so advocates can use it to make their case for a more fair distribution of resources. She is probably the strongest disability champion that we have ever had in that role at the Department of Education."