Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate someone for a 2026 Bright Star Award! We are honored to celebrate the individuals who make a difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
The nominations are in, and now the selection process begins! All nominees and the individuals who submitted nominations will be notified once the award recipients have been selected.
Join us on October 15, 2026, for the 2026 Bright Star Awards Banquet, held as part of the Wyoming Developmental Disabilities Conference. We look forward to shining a spotlight on this year's Bright Star honorees and celebrating their contributions!
Join us for the Bright Star Boogie immediately following the celebration. Whether you fox-trot, two-step, line dance, shuffle, or make up your own moves, come ready to celebrate and shake your groove thing!
There is no dress code—wear whatever makes you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to dance the night away! From dressy to casual and everything in between, everyone is welcome on the dance floor.
We can't wait to celebrate our Bright Stars with you!
Keep your eyes open for the people who make a difference, lift others up, and bring a little extra light to the world. You might already know next year's Bright Star!
Nominations for the 2027 Bright Star Awards will open in the future, so start thinking about who deserves their moment in the spotlight.
Recognize individuals and organizations whose efforts make a meaningful impact.
Share stories that encourage inclusion, leadership and opportunity.
Celebrate achievements that strengthen Wyoming communities.
Recognizes individuals whose advocacy efforts have made a meaningful impact at the local, state, or national level in support of people with developmental disabilities.
Recognizes family members whose dedication, advocacy, and support positively impact the lives of people with developmental disabilities and strengthen their communities.
Recognizes educators who demonstrate outstanding dedication and excellence in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities within the education system.
Recognizes employers who create inclusive workplaces, empower people with disabilities, and provide opportunities for growth, choice, and success within their organization.
Recognizes professionals who consistently demonstrate excellence, integrity, and dedication in the field of developmental disabilities while making a meaningful impact within their organization and community.
You do not need to be a professional, provider or organization representative.
Nomination are welcome from:
Family members
Friends
Coworkers
Employers
Educators
Community members
Service providers
Self-advocates
WHY NOMINATE?
Every Bright Star Has a Story
Behind every achievement is someone who believed in possibility, encouraged independence, created opportunities, or inspired change.
Tell us about the self-advocate, family member, educator, employer or professional who deserves recognition.
Their story could inspire an entire community.
2025 Bright Star Award Winners
Amber Peckham-Jones
Self-Advocate
Jeff Graham
Family Member
Jet Watson
Educator
Micheala Rank
Professional
Sagan Wheeler for Ivinson Memorial Hospital
Employer