For Immediate Release

February 9, 2018

The Arc of Nebraska Awards Presents Awards to Senator Walz and Legislative Aide Edward Boone

Lincoln- The Arc of Nebraska is a non profit with 9 chapters and 1500 members covering the state.  We are advocates for ensuring the most integrated lives possible for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.  Our annual Senatorial Dinner is hosted to help bring together Senators, individuals with disabilities, family members, professionals, and advocates to help create a more inclusive community.  This is also a time we recognize the hard work of Senators dedicated to helping people with disabilities.

Harold Sieck Award

The Harold Sieck Public  Official of the Year recognizes statewide elected public officials, who have had a positive influence on the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families through public policy services.

Harold Sieck served as a Nebraska State Senator.  Senator Sieck had a son, Roger who had developmental disabilities.  The Arc of Nebraska named this award in recognition of Senator Sieck’s advocacy on behalf of people with developmental disabilities. 

We are pleased to present the 2018 Harold Sieck Public Official of the Year Award to Senator Lynne Walz.

Senator Walz is a passionate advocate for people with disabilities.  In her second year in the Legislature she has clearly become a rising star on disability issues tackling common sense legislation like the LB 800 the Olmstead Bill to ensure that we protect people with disabilities and prevent costly legal expenses.  As someone who has worked as a provider she understands the importance of a high quality level of care and that she can truly make the difference in a great many peoples lives.  She has been a consistent and strong voice for the I/DD community.

Legislative Aide Award

This award recognizes individuals strongly involved in the legislative advocacy process that have assisted in communicating with legislators about the issues people with developmental disabilities and their families face.  The recipient of this award demonstrates a commitment to acting as a connector among constituents and the legislative process that will promote positive policies for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families.

We are pleased to present the 2018 Legislative Aide Award to Edward Boone of Senator Briese's Office.

Edward has been a fantastic advocate, a passionate professional, and dedicated public servant. His leading work on LB 845 to help protect parents with disabilities has been tremendous.  It is rare to see a professional who is so well organized, quick to react, and yet thoughtful in engaging all stakeholders.  His steadfast commitment to helping Nebraskans with disabilities has been impressive.  The way he has helped to coordinate work not just with us but with our broader coalition truly set him out as the clear choice for this years Legislative Advocate Award.

Note to media: For additional information, contact Edison McDonald at 402-802-1109 or [email protected]