The Athens City Commission on Disabilities will commemorate 20 years for the Commission and 10 years for the Athena Award on Wednesday, November 6, from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Athens Community Center, 701 East State Street.

The Athena Award is presented to someone who has demonstrated outstanding service to those who live with disabilities. The 2024 Athena Award nominees are: Autumn Brown, director, Integrate Athens, Athens County Board of Developmental Disabilities; Dr. Kevin Davis, superintendent, Athens County Board of Developmental Disabilities; Rob Delach, advocate; Nate Thomson, director, Athens Photographic Project; Noah Trembly (posthumously), advocate; and Lisa Wigal, advocate. Mayor Steve Patterson will announce the recipient. The Athena Award is the only award presented by the City of Athens.

The guest speaker will be Jennifer Kucera, consumer member, UnitedHealthcare National Advisory Board. Jennifer was born with a form of Muscular Dystrophy called Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Now in her ‘50s, Jennifer has become a strong advocate for the disability community. She currently serves on many local and statewide disability groups and organizations. Jennifer has spoken at numerous conferences on the topics near and dear to her heart such as independent living, self-direction, the National caregiving crisis and health equity for people with disabilities. She is a staunch believer in the saying, “Nothing About Us, Without Us,” meaning that all decisions made that affect people with disabilities should include people with disabilities. Prior to making disability advocacy a full-time career, Jennifer worked as a math instructor and tutor for 25 years. Jennifer currently resides in her own apartment, with the help of her dedicated caregivers in Berea, Ohio, with her emotional support dog, Miley.

Musician Otis Crockron, Jr. will provide the entertainment, and catering will be by Mauvette’s. The Commission thanks the following for their generous support of this event: The Ohio University Inn and Conference Center, OUCU Financial, Ohio University Division of Diversity and Inclusion, Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL), The Laurels of Athens, Brenen’s Coffee Café, A-Roc Entertainment, LifeDay Greeting Cards, Inc., Athens Civitan Club; and patrons Dr. Micah McCarey; Dr. Carolyn Bailey Lewis; and Michelle Hahn.

Nico Fuentes and Alli Kisker will provide ASL interpretation and childcare will be available. The public is welcome to attend. An RSVP to disabilitiescommission@ci.athens.oh.us is requested but not required.