Go to the Registration Page for more information
Don't miss your chance to join us for three days of learning, connection, advocacy and inclusion.
October 14–16, 2026 • Casper, Wyoming*
Space is limited, and only a small number of tuition scholarships remain available
*Western Heritage Hotel & Conference Center
formerly known as the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center
The next quarterly Council meeting is scheduled for November 12-13, 2026 via Zoom.
Information on Public Comment will be posted closer to the meeting.
We are thrilled to announce that the Wyoming Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities (WGCDD) is now an official community distribution partner for the Blue Envelope Program!
For more information visit out Blue Envelope Program page
October 14-16, 2026
Western Heritage Hotel and Conference Center (formerly known as the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center)
Three days of learning, connection, and celebration for self-advocates, families, professionals, providers, educators, and community partners.
Heroes don't always make headlines—but they deserve to be recognized.
Think about the self-advocate who inspires others, the educator who believes in every student, the professional who goes above and beyond, the family member whose unwavering support changes lives, or the employer who is creating opportunities and building a more inclusive Wyoming.
Don't assume someone else has already nominated them—your nomination could be the one that ensures their story is told.
The Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Bright Star Awards celebrate individuals who are making a lasting difference in the lives of others and strengthening communities across Wyoming.
Award recipients do not need to attend the Bright Star Awards Banquet to receive recognition. While we would love to celebrate with them in person, attendance is not required to be selected for an award.
Nominations close September 14, 2026. Don't wait—help us celebrate someone who truly shines!
Wyoming, your Input Matters the Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities is planning for the Five-Year State Plan (2027-2031).
To aid the development, information was collected from September of 2024 to December of 2025 using the following means:
Surveys
Listening sessions
Anecdotal stories
Information and referrals
Recognizing and monitoring state/national trends
Recognizing best practices being used by other collaborative groups/projects
Social Media information/discussions
Recognizing barriers
These data collection processes helped to determine the goals and objectives based around Areas of Emphasis and the Council’s Mission to Seek, Educate, Change.
Now is your final public comment opportunity.
Executive Summary for the 2027 - 2031 Five Year Plan is available to view by following the link below:
The people making a difference in Wyoming deserve to be recognized. Submit a nomination and help us celebrate those who inspire, empower and strengthen our communities.
Celebrating 50 Years of Service and Advocacy
In recognition of the Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities' (WGCDD) 50th Anniversary, Governor Mark Gordon signed a proclamation honoring five decades of advocacy, systems change, and promoting opportunities for people with developmental disabilities across Wyoming. The proclamation recognizes the Council's longstanding commitment to advancing self-determination, independence, community inclusion, and meaningful participation for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The proclamation ceremony brought together Council members, self-advocates, families, community partners, and supporters from across the state to celebrate this important milestone. During the event, WGCDD Executive Director Brittany Hankinson-McGovern thanked Governor Gordon for recognizing the Council's legacy and continued impact. Council Member David Ray shared his personal story, describing how the Council empowered him to become a strong self-advocate and inspired him to become more involved in his community. His remarks reflected the Council's mission of helping people with developmental disabilities lead self-directed, meaningful lives.
Following the ceremony at the Wyoming State Capitol, WGCDD staff welcomed guests to the Council office for a 50th Anniversary Open House. Visitors enjoyed refreshments, toured the office, explored the Council's programs and resources, and celebrated the many individuals, families, partners, and advocates who have helped shape the Council's first 50 years. The event honored the Council's rich history while looking ahead to a future of continued advocacy, inclusion, and opportunity for all Wyomingites with developmental disabilities.
WGCDD Executive Director Brittany Hankinson-McGovern thanks Governor Mark Gordon for signing the proclamation honoring the Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities' 50 years of advocacy, leadership, and service to the people of Wyoming.
Governor Mark Gordon joins WGCDD Council members and supporters for a group photo following the signing of the proclamation recognizing the Council's 50th Anniversary at the Wyoming State Capitol.
Governor Mark Gordon signs the proclamation recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities and celebrating five decades of advancing inclusion, self-determination, and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities across Wyoming.
Governor Mark Gordon poses for a photo with current WGCDD Executive Director Brittany Hankinson-McGovern and retired Executive Director Shannon Buller following the 50th Anniversary proclamation ceremony.
Left to right: Stephanie Wodahl, Cari Glantz, and Wyoming Institute for Disabilities (WIND) Executive Director Dr. Michelle Jarman enjoy refreshments during the WGCDD 50th Anniversary Open House.
WGCDD staff members Cathy Hardway, Penny Davis, and Brittany Hankinson-McGovern (left to right) smile as they cut the anniversary cake during the WGCDD 50th Anniversary Open House.
WGCDD Vice Chairperson Heather Glaser signs the commemorative photo mat honoring the Council's 50th Anniversary as her father, David Glaser, looks on.
Members of Wyoming's developmental disabilities community gather to celebrate during the WGCDD 50th Anniversary Open House.
WGCDD Executive Director Brittany Hankinson-McGovern visits with Cari Glantz during the Council's 50th Anniversary Open House.
WGCDD Council Member David Ray reflects on the Council's 50-year legacy during the WGCDD 50th Anniversary Open House.
Current and former WGCDD staff gather for a photo during the 50th Anniversary Open House. Pictured are Brittany Hankinson-McGovern, Cathy Hardway, Penny Davis, and retired Executive Director Shannon Buller.
WGCDD Vice Chairperson Heather Glaser and her father, David Glaser, proudly display the Governor's proclamation recognizing the Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities' 50th Anniversary.
Council Upcoming Events
Wyoming Developmental Disabilities Conference
October 14 - 16, 2026
Casper, Wyoming
Phone: 307-777-7230 or 1-800-438-5791
Email: wgcdd@wyo.gov
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Join our listserv by emailing wgcdd@wyo.gov
** The Wyoming Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities is funded in part by the Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy and/or Council policy.**
** The Wyoming Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities shares information and resources to support individuals, families, and communities. Listings and links are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement of any organization, product, or service. **
