Don Cosner Impact and Leadership Award
Award Guidelines![]()
Award Guidelines
The Don Cosner Impact and Leadership Award is a prestigious recognition granted to individuals or groups who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and contributions to people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. This award honors those who selflessly dedicate their time to inspire positive change and promote independence for people with disabilities over an extended period.
During his 24 years of service to the Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Don Cosner demonstrated unwavering dedication, compassionate leadership, and a collaborative spirit. Recipients of this award shall embody characteristics similar to those demonstrated by Don Cosner. Awardees showcase significant influence and leadership in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The Don Cosner Impact and Leadership Award will serve as a testament to the impact of his legacy and his unwavering support and advocacy efforts in our community.
Key Attributes of Don Cosner Impact and Leadership Award Recipients:
Commitment and Service: Demonstrated significant, long-term commitment (minimum of 5 years) to the well-being of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Leadership and Influence: Proven leadership that includes leading initiatives that promote inclusivity and support in the field of Developmental Disabilities.
Impact and Innovation: Contributions that have resulted in substantial positive change, enhancing the quality of life for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Community Collaborator: Actively collaborates with other organizations, stakeholders, and community members to advance the vision of creating a community where people with disabilities have access to services to live their best lives.
Advocacy and Empowerment: Serves as a strong advocate for people with developmental disabilities, promoting their rights, inclusion, and access to services to lead as independent a life as possible.
Nomination Requirements:
- Nomination Form: Complete the NOMINATION FORM which includes basic contact information and a brief description of the nominee's impact.
- Nomination Letter: A detailed nomination letter outlining the nominee’s qualifications based on the criteria above. The letter should highlight specific examples of the nominee’s contributions and impact.
- References: Contact information for at least two references who can attest to the nominee’s commitment, leadership, and impact in the field of developmental disabilities.
- Supporting Documents: Supporting documents showcasing the nominee’s achievements and contributions. This may include testimonials, letters of recommendation, pictures, newspaper/media coverage, or other data illustrating the nominee’s impact.
Award Selection and Presentation:
- Application Deadline: All nomination material must be submitted to Cosner.Award@AshtabulaDD.org by November 1st of each year.
- Committee Review and Selection: The selection committee will review all nominations and make a selection by December 31st of each year. The committee will review and evaluate the nominations, ensuring that only candidates who fully meet the criteria are considered. If no nominations meet the full criteria in a given year, the award will not be presented that year.
- Award Presentation: The recipient of the Don Cosner Award will be recognized at an Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities board meeting in the first quarter of the upcoming year.
Direct all questions and inquiries to the Quality and Community Outreach Department at the Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
440-335-1586
