Press Release: Disability Community Fills East Wing of the Capitol at Colorado’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month Ceremony

(DENVER) - The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) and its Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) filled the West Foyer of the Colorado State Capitol at the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Celebration held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera joined the celebration to recognize people with disabilities, employers, partners and individuals who make exemplary efforts in the intentional recruitment, hiring, retention, and advancement of individuals with disabilities. The ceremony also honored DVR staff whose bold actions have significantly impacted the people and partners they serve.

Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera and her administration's lasting impact on the disability community was honored and celebrated throughout the event.

"I started my career as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, and I've seen firsthand what's possible when we look past a diagnosis and see a person's potential. I am extraordinarily proud of this administration's commitment to creating a Colorado for all. As a result Colorado has become one of the most progressive states in the nation for disability employment. I'm confident that we've laid the foundation for individuals with disabilities to continue to prosper in our state for years to come," said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera.

"We can't build a Colorado for All without the talent of individuals with disabilities," CDLE Executive Director Joe Barela, who spoke at the event. "It is an honor to be alongside employers who recognize the value of creating open opportunities and ensuring every Coloradan has the tools they need to thrive."

During the celebration, DVR recognized employers who completed DVR's Employer Challenge, a year-round commitment to hiring and retaining individuals with disabilities, recognizing that this untapped talent pool is key to achieving an equal and open workplace. The following six employers were recognized:

• Colorado Department of Transportation
• ARC of Adams County
• The Division of Unemployment Insurance
• Steel City Thrift
• Community Economic Defense Project
• City of Fort Collins

Senior Policy Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor, Josh Winkler, received this year's Employment for All Award for his incredible impact on the disability community.

This year DVR presented the Primavera award, named in honor of Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera, who is a former vocational rehabilitation counselor. The inaugural Primavera Award was awarded to DVR Business Technology Manager Mark Sanner for his critical role in advancing technology for DVR staff, partners, and participants.

Throughout the event, the Employment for All Partnership, Disability Program Navigators, Colorado Cross Disability Coalition, Centers for Independent Living, the CO Association for People Supporting Employment First, and AgrAbility were spotlighted for their leadership in disability rights, advancing Colorado's commitment to being a Colorado for All. DVR participants Izzy Zucker and rancher Garrett Northrup were also celebrated. Several DVR staff were also recognized with a Culture in Action Award, a partnership between DVR and the State Rehabilitation Council.

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