Tulsa Kevin Anderson Honored with Oklahoma Governor Disability Employment Awards of Excellence

OKLAHOMA CITY --Sixteen individuals from across the state, five employers and two prominent media outlets were honored during the annual “Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence” recently held at the Phillips Pavilion on the grounds of the Governor’s Mansion in Oklahoma City. KOCO-TV Channel 5 Anchor Paul Folger emceed the event.

Originally created by former Governor and First Lady George and Donna Nigh 29 years ago, the awards recognize individuals with disabilities with a Governor’s commendation for “Outstanding Achievements in Employment.” One of this year’s winners included Tulsa’s Kevin Anderson, who received his award from Oklahoma Secretary of State Chris Benge and Oklahoma Department of Human Services Director Ed Lake.

Goodwill Industries of Tulsa Training Specialist Paul Hughey said he nominated Anderson because he is considered “a role model for other employees.”

“When Kevin started working as a cart attendant at Target, he needed the assistance and support of an employment consultant,” Hughey said. “At the time, he was also relying on his mother for transportation to and from work. Now, less than a year later, Kevin works independently at his job, has bought himself a car and has started driving himself to work.”

Christine Jackson, executive team leader for guest relations at the Target store where Anderson works, wrote a personal letter of recommendation, stating, “I have been Kevin’s immediate supervisor since he started with Target in 2013. He is consistently pleasant, tackling all assignments with dedication and a smile.

“He is respectful to all guests and team members, and is always friendly and positive while carrying out his duties,” Christine continued, stating that Kevin is a joy to work with.

“He often goes above and beyond his job duties to ensure that our guests are taken care of,” she said. “Kevin is extremely reliable and often picks up additional shifts on short notice. I highly recommend Kevin for this award because he’s a team player and an asset to our store.”

The Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence competition and program is co-sponsored by the Governor’s Office, the Oklahoma DHS Developmental Disabilities Services, the Oklahoma DRS and the Oklahoma Association of People Supporting EmploymentFirst. Award winners are annually selected by a panel of public servants and volunteers who either serve people with disabilities or represent organizations that provide direct care for them daily.

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