Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/618006
Winter 2015 | wyoea.org 11 Margaret "Mickey" Anderson, a teacher and WEA member and leader from Douglas, has been awarded the Keith A. Miller Award. It is given in support and recognition of those who are committed to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities. "My initial thought was, 'Wow!' I was blown away, because I work for the kids, doing what I love; I don't work for awards and recognition. I thought, 'Someone is doing this for me?' Because I just love what I do!" said Mickey Anderson, who has worked with special education students her whole career. "Mickey has been an active member and leader in Douglas for years, and the care and love she's shown for her students, colleagues and community are second to none. The WEA is lucky to have such great educators as its members," said WEA President Kathy Vetter. The award is presented annually to a person who makes a powerful difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities in any way. Dedicated volunteer work, key leadership in advocacy for people with disabilities, and notable accomplishments impacting policy or systems at a local, state or national level are just a few qualities that past nominees have possessed. The Wyoming Institute of Disabilities has dedicated its annual award to the founder of their center, Dr. Keith A. Miller. Professor Miller received his Ph.D. from Bowling Green State University and worked for many years at the University of Wyoming in Social Work before he began laying the groundwork for a University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) in 1986. After several years of planning, the Wyoming Institute for Disabilities was officially launched in November 1994, and Dr. Miller served as the director until his retirement in 2007. Keith A. Miller built his career upon the philosophy that everyone should help communities become more welcoming and supportive of people with disabilities. In his words, "We are an interdependent community; we all rely on others. We all have abilities, we all have disabilities; it's a natural part of life." It is Dr. Miller's spirit of dedication and desire for excellence in being "a force fighting for people with disabilities" that has inspired the Keith A. Miller Award. Nominate someone for the award at: http://www.uwyo.edu/wind/award/ Anderson Honored with Keith A. Miller Award Mickey Anderson works with the "Culinary Cats".