2012 Young Professional Award

December 11, 2012

Erik Carter with AUCD President Tony Antosh and President-Elect Julie Fodor

The Young Professional Award is presented to professionals in the disabilities field under the age of 40 years who have demonstrated dedication and commitment to people with developmental and other disabilities and their families through their work as a bridge between the academic sector and the community.

Erik Carter, PhD

Vanderbilt Kennedy Center

In Recognition of Your Advocacy, Commitment, and Promise

Erik shows exceptional dedication and commitment to individuals with significant disabilities in his research, his teaching, and his service. His work is having an extraordinary impact on preparing youth and young adults with severe disabilities for self-determined lives with meaningful work and strong community support. In viewing supports, he looks not just at traditional service systems, but also at natural community supports, which may be why he is among only a few researchers nationally to examine inclusive faith communities. His research is methodologically rigorous and responsive to local and national needs. It addresses questions of importance to students, families, educators, and employers and translates seamlessly into effective, practical strategies that can be readily implemented in schools and communities.