Norman Resident Receives Commendation from Governor

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Norman resident Mark McKiddy received a commendation from Governor Mary Fallin on November 10 during the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards at the Governor’s Mansion in Oklahoma City.

McKiddy has worked at the University of Oklahoma as a custodian for two years. His supervisors are very proud of his improvements and accomplishments over the course of his employment. He recently received the perfect attendance award for going six months without missing a shift and always being on time for work. If there is an issue at work, he typically has already discussed the situation with his supervisor and has a ready solution. He calls his job coach merely to keep the coach informed on what’s going on.

Throughout his time in the workforce, McKiddy has become an independent, confident and hard-working young man. He has become more confident in meeting new people and is always willing to help his co-workers. McKiddy has also gained financial independence and is able to provide for himself, paying for his own clothes, recreational activities, and much more. He is saving money to move into his own apartment and is looking forward to being completely independent. McKiddy is an active participant in community service activities with his church and assists in the Children’s Ministry as well as helps teach a pre-school class on Sundays.

“Employees and businesses like these place Oklahoma at the forefront as leaders for employing people with disabilities,” said Howard Hendrick, Director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

“Oklahoma is committed to assisting people with developmental disabilities find competitive jobs and become working taxpayers,” said Hendrick. “Today, 60% of individuals with developmental disabilities served by the OKDHS Developmental Disabilities Services Division participate in supported employment services.”

The Governor’s Disability Employment Awards are co sponsored by Governor Mary Fallin along with OKDHS/DDSD, the Department of Rehabilitation Services, and the Oklahoma Association of Persons in Supported Employment.

Editors Note: To see Oklahoma's ranking as compared to other states in regard to the number of persons with developmental disabilities in competitive jobs (supported employment) go to www.statedata.info (link opens in new window).

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Mark McKiddy (left) receives a Governor’s Commendation from OKDHS Director Howard Hendrick for his outstanding work at the University of Oklahoma. The award was presented during the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence at the Governor’s Mansion November 10.