"Think Ability" Award Recipients 2010

Volunteer of the Year Award-Dr. Judy Smithson

This award is presented to a member of the Coalition who has dedicated themselves to principles of volunteerism. This recipient is someone who commits a significant amount of time and energy to their volunteer activities. Many recipients of this award have been Coalition state office volunteers, but it is not a requirement.

Barbara Pritchard Award-Kathleen Corrigan

This award is reserved for members of the Coalition who support advocacy work from behind the scenes. This recipient is someone who rarely seeks the spotlight for themselves, and focuses their time and energy on helping others achieve their leadership and advocacy goals.

Bang Long Jr.Markeeta Award-Christopher Meskimen

This award is presented to an individual for their advancement and progress as a youth in pursuit of social justice.

Mary Linden Award-Marilyn Smith

This award honors a member of the Coalition who has demonstrated conviction, dedication and strong personal growth. This is a person who volunteers their time, energy and talents in pursuit of the mission and goals of the Coalition.

Doctor Judy Smithson Advocacy Award-John Miller

This award recognizes an individual for advocacy activities supporting the human and constitutional rights of citizens with disabilities. This award recipient should be someone who has advocated on more than one issue of concern. The individual should be a positive role model for others to follow.

Senator Penny Severns Memorial Award-State Representative Esther Golar

Formerly known as the Legislator of the Year Award, this award was renamed in 1998 in honor of Senator Penny Severns outstanding dedication to the rights of people with disabilities. Each year the Coalition chooses to honor at least one legislator who has done the most to advance the rights of people with disabilities in Illinois.

Justin Dart Distinguished Citizen Award-Cyndy Benton

First presented in 1989, the Distinguished Citizen Award is one of the Coalition's most prestigious honors. Recipients are persons who have shown an outstanding commitment to the rights of people with disabilities.