Northwest Region Participates in ADA Celebration

Northwest Region Program Supervisor Octavius Jackson and Northwest Region Community Relations Liaison Annette Zeeb participated in the 28th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) 2018 Awards and Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, sponsored by the Center for Independent Living (CIL) Disability Resource Center at the First Pentecostal Church in Pensacola on July 12. 

Businessman, author, mentor, philanthropist, and visionary Quint Studer was the keynote speaker. He shared his insights on disabilities and the importance of creating a place where everyone is loved and valued for their unique abilities. He stated, “We are all difference makers. When you throw a pebble in the pond, it affects all the water in the pond. We are all a pebble in the pond of life. Never underestimate the difference you make in someone’s life.”

The Joe Oldmixon Service Award for Outstanding Service to People with Disabilities was presented to University of West Florida Associate Vice President Dr. Vannee Cao-Nguyen, for her tireless advocacy to provide an inclusive academic experience for university students with disabilities.

The 2018 Spirit of CIL Award was presented to Escambia Westgate School Principal Jobenna Lawson-Sellers, for her endless efforts to help every student achieve his or her maximum potential. Lawson-Sellers stated she sees “miracles happen every day.”

The 2018 Volunteer of the Year Award was presented by Stacy Davis with Capstone Adaptive Learning and Therapy Centers to Larry and Mary Anderson for their countless hours spent volunteering and providing bi-weekly home-cooked meals to six group homes.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to the family of Warren Jernigan for his lifetime of advocacy and commitment to furthering independence for people with disabilities. 


Quint Studer gave the keynote address at the 2018 Awards and Volunteer Recognition Luncheon.


Attendees enjoyed celebrating the 28th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.