Wyoming Institute for Disabilities Celebrates Silver Anniversary (WY UCEDD)

December 23, 2019

(L to R): Elizabeth Cantalamessa, 2019 WIND Distinguished Alum; Dr. Michelle Jarman, Assoc. Professor and Director of Disability Studies; Dr. Keith A. Miller, Emeritus Professor and WIND founding Director

In November, Wyoming Institute for Disabilities (WIND) celebrated 25 years of impactful contributions to the state in support of people with disabilities. Executed by the WIND Consumer Advisory Council, our silver celebration brought together families, colleagues and constituents for activities that recognize and celebrate WIND partnerships and service to the state of Wyoming.

WIND anniversary celebrations were launched in June at the Developmental Disability Conference, hosted by the Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities. The conference included a keynote presentation on the Developmental Disability Network in Wyoming, with recognition of the WIND anniversary. These summer months also provided the Consumer Advisory Council members the opportunity to go "on the road" in communities around the state, sharing information about WIND projects and resources.

Campus celebrations began with a homecoming reception at the WIND offices in the College of Health Sciences. Students enrolled in the disability studies minor program shared their powerful insights on how this program has impacted their academic goals and future plans. Faculty and staff also shared information about various research initiatives and programs, including assistive technology, Project ECHO, Telehealth and the Equality State Research Network. The homecoming celebration also provided an opportunity for WIND to present the first annual Distinguished Alum Award to Elizabeth Cantalamessa, a 2012 disability studies minor graduate.

Anniversary celebrations concluded with the WIND Gala on November 7. The day's events began with a lunch to present the 14th annual Keith A. Miller award to Riverton, Wyoming resident Shari Kettlehut. Shari was recognized for her compassionate and loving care as a parent, advocate and care provider. We were then honored to host Dr. Kim Nielsen, Professor of Disability Studies at the University of Toledo. Dr. Nielsen presented "Disability History, Disability Justice, and Future Directions" to an enthusiastic public audience. The talk was followed by a gala celebration and poster presentation by WIND faculty, staff and disability studies minor students.

While the celebratory events have concluded, the dynamic work of WIND continues. A bright future lies ahead as we continue to envision and engage a Wyoming where all people can participate in everyday community life as they choose.

Visit uwyo.edu/wind/anniversary/ for a link to Dr. Nielsen's talk. The WIND history booklet, produced in conjunction with the anniversary celebration, can also be viewed on this page.