NDSU will receive a Regional Employer of the Year Award from the North Dakota Department of Human Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation on Thursday, Oct. 6, during the 2011 Governor’s Workforce Summit in Minot. The award honors the exceptional work of North Dakota business owners and employers in support of North Dakotans with disabilities. NDSU is one of eight organizations to receive the award. Human resources and payroll will accept the award on NDSU’s behalf.

Other honorees include the Bismarck Tribune; St. Luke’s Home, Dickinson; Devils Lake Journal; Lunseth Plumbing and Heating, Grand Forks; Total Clean, Jamestown; Kmart, Minot; and Economart, Williston.

“Supported by a strong business environment, North Dakota remains one of the nation’s top ranked states in terms of its employment of people with disabilities,” Gov. Jack Dalrymple said. “These award-winning businesses demonstrate great leadership in their communities, and it is fitting that they are recognized as part of the Workforce Summit.”

The North Dakota Division of Vocational Rehabilitation works to assist individuals with disabilities to maximize their employment opportunities and to assist North Dakota business owners and employers in finding solutions to disability-related issues.

“Employees with disabilities are a key part of a diverse 21st century workforce,” said Russ Cusack, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation director. “When given the opportunity by employers such as those being honored, they can build on their abilities, enhance their skills and become an integral part of North Dakota’s vibrant economy.”  

For information about the awards and services available to help employers and employees address disability-related issues, call the North Dakota Department of Human Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation at 701-328-8950, ND Relay TTY 1-800-366-6888 or visit www.nd.gov/dhs/dvr/index.html.