Disability:IN Minnesota network,

As we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Disability:IN Minnesota, I am filled with deep gratitude and pride. This milestone is not just a marker of time—it is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our community to advance disability inclusion in the workplace and beyond.

From our beginnings as the Minnesota Business Leadership Network to the vibrant, purpose-driven organization we are today, our journey has been shaped by the passion, advocacy, and leadership of so many. We honor those who laid the foundation, those who have carried the torch, and those who continue to push us forward.

This special occasion is dedicated to the stories, partnerships, and progress that define our legacy. It is also a call to action—to recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive, equitable future for all.

On a personal note, serving as Chair of the Board during this milestone year has been a great honor. I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of inclusion to transform workplaces and lives. I’m inspired every day by the dedication of our members, partners, and allies—and I’m excited for what we’ll accomplish together in the years ahead.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to the next 25 years of impact.

Sincerely,

Jamie Rudolph

Disability:IN Minnesota Board Chair

25 Years of Advancing Disability Inclusion

Hear what our community members have to say…

“At Element Fleet, one of our values is to always be a force for good — and our partnership with Disability:IN Minnesota is a powerful way we live that value every day.

I’m deeply grateful to the entire team at Disability:IN Minnesota for the incredible support they provide to Element and their broader efforts to raise awareness and promote education around inclusion. Their expertise, resources, and commitment — from insightful webinars and training sessions to comprehensive guides — help us enhance the experience for of our team members.

Thanks to their partnership, we continue to foster a culture of belonging where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered.”

– J’Nai Buchanan, Element Fleet Management, Member of Disability:IN Minnesota, INclusive Career Fair Participant

“Disability:IN was the source of gaining powerful experience and networking to land the position I did as an intern for Northrop Grumman at the Los Angeles location in 2020 after attending the Disability:IN conference in Chicago. I have since continued working full time at Northrop Grumman since 2022, and am now a Mass Properties Engineer on the NASA HALO program. It has been a thrill having the opportunities I have, and I could not imagine I’d be where I am today without the help of Disability:IN Minnesota to provide the guidance and resources it did.”

– Kevin Connors, Northrop Grumman, 2021 Career Connections Mentoring Program Mentee and Friend of Disability:IN Minnesota

“Disability:IN Minnesota’s programs have helped me in my role as co-chair of our Disability Resources Group. The programs have helped me understand the distinction between diversity and inclusion and the Americans with Disabilities Act.”

– Sam Catanzaro, Dorsey & Whitney LLP, Member of Disability:IN Minnesota

“At the American Academy of Neurology, we are proud to celebrate Disability:IN Minnesota’s 25th anniversary and reflect on the value this partnership has brought since we joined in 2023.

The most impactful benefit has been the exceptional disability inclusion education and resources. From thoughtfully curated member meeting content to practical tools and learning opportunities, Disability:IN Minnesota has helped us deepen our organizational understanding and commitment to disability inclusion. These resources have supported our internal diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and helped us engage our staff in meaningful ways. Participation in programs like the annual INclusive Career Fair and the mentorship program have allowed us to connect with talented candidates and reinforce our inclusive hiring practices.

Thank you, Disability:IN Minnesota, for your leadership, partnership, and 25 years of impact. We look forward to continuing this important work together.”

– Deanna Ekholm and Jessica Diede, American Academy of Neurology, Members of Disability:IN Minnesota, Career Connections Mentoring Program Mentor

“Disability:IN Minnesota is a beacon of light as it consistently underscores the importance of investing in disability inclusion. With nearly 1 in 4 American adults having a disability, Disability:IN Minnesota provides valuable insights and resources that help organizations to better prepare and adapt to changing workforce needs. This, in turn, positions organizations for greater success by ensuring we are inclusive and supportive of all individuals.”

– Maria McFarlane, Best Buy, Member of Disability:IN Minnesota

“Disability:IN Minnesota has become my top resource for learning about how best to support employees with disabilities. The meetings and trainings for members are always fantastic, providing a variety of perspectives, including those with lived experience. I also value the Career Connections Program, which has given our staff an opportunity to mentor someone interested in our mission, and the INclusive Career Fair, which has assisted us in connecting with applicants interested in our mission. Congratulations on your 25th anniversary! I look forward to seeing your amazing work continue!”

– Kari Scanlon, Touchstone Mental Health, Member of Disability:IN Minnesota, Career Connections Mentoring Program Mentor, INclusive Career Fair Participant

“Disability:IN Minnesota has been a wonderful partner to Disability:IN Chicagoland. We have appreciated partnering on programs, sharing best practices, and collaborating to expand our reach. Partnering with Disability:IN Minnesota and its business network has strengthened our Disability:IN Chicagoland affiliate. We have learned from them and benefited from joining their programming and sharing it with our local business network. It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with the Minnesota team!”

– Laura Wilhelm, Disability:IN Chicagoland, Disability:IN Affiliate Partner

“Being involved with Disability:IN Minnesota has been incredibly meaningful to me personally and professionally. It’s expanded my understanding and perspective on disability inclusion and given me practical tools to support a more inclusive environment at work. Inclusion is a win for all because people are empowered to do their best work when they have a true sense of belonging.”

– Lisa Stock, VAA Engineering, Member of Disability:IN Minnesota, Former Disability:IN Minnesota Board Member

“Serving on the Board of Directors for Disability:IN Minnesota has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the organization’s unwavering commitment to advancing disability inclusion in the workplace and beyond.

One of the most meaningful experiences has been participating in the Career Connections Mentoring Program—as both a mentor and program coordinator. It’s been a privilege to support bright college students as they grow in confidence, refine their résumés, build interview skills, and ultimately secure roles in their chosen fields. These moments are powerful reminders that a single connection can truly change the trajectory of someone’s life.

Disability:IN MN creates those connections every day. Through its programming, partnerships, and passionate leadership, it empowers individuals and organizations alike to build more inclusive, equitable workplaces.

Congratulations to Disability:IN Minnesota on 25 years of leadership, advocacy, and impact. I’m proud to be part of this journey and excited for the future we’re building together.”

– Dawn Swiers, Mayo Clinic, Member of Disability:IN Minnesota, Disability:IN Minnesota Board Secretary