Posted 6/16/2023
Congratulations to Merakey’s Senior Executive Director of Clinical Services, Dr. Tim Barksdale for winning the 2023 Wolf Wolfensberger Valor Award. Each year, the award recognizes a mental health professional who is committed to empowering clinical practice or research that amplifies the inherent dignity of all people; Someone who has demonstrated commitment against discriminatory and oppressive practices through research, clinical practice, or political activism that advances social inclusion for people with developmental disabilities.
Dr. Barksdale was recognized at the147th American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD)’s conference that was held June 5-7 in Pittsburgh, PA. Many Merakey executives, directors and managers attended the event and joined Tim as he received the award. The event provided a forum for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and advocates to come together to tackle challenges, explore opportunities, and discuss strategies related to integrated and competitive employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Senior Vice President for IDD Services Elise Tretola attended the conference and commented, “we are extremely honored to work alongside Dr. Tim Barksdale and to have him as a part of the Merakey family. His innovation, commitment, and passion to supporting our most vulnerable is beyond compare. There is no person more qualified for this honor and we are proud to be a part of the recognition.”
“I’m extremely grateful for the celebration of the award and for the support given to me by Elise, Merakey senior and executive leadership, and from my fellow coworkers. When such trust and support is given by all of us it can inspire creativity and productivity on all levels of service delivery and drive a high quality of life to those who receive services,” says Dr. Barksdale.
Congratulations, Dr. Barksdale, for winning such a prestigious award!
