Annapolis, MD (October 16, 2026) - County Executive Steuart Pittman and the Anne Arundel County Commission on Disability Issues recently announced the name of the 2026 DisAbility Awareness Day Honoree. This annual award is presented to an individual or business in the community that has made a lifetime commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. The Honoree will be recognized at the annual DisAbility Awareness Day event on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Severn Center.
This year’s honoree, Waugh Chapel Elementary School, is home to the first elementary-level Best Buddies chapter in Anne Arundel County Public Schools. The program creates opportunities for students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities to build friendships, participate in activities together, and promote a school culture centered on inclusion and belonging. Waugh Chapel Elementary, is a shining example of inclusivity, demonstrating that their Best Buddies chapter is a program that helps students thrive and build lasting, meaningful relationships.
The chapter has grown significantly since its creation and has received recognition at both the state and national levels. In 2025, Waugh Chapel was named the Best Buddies Maryland Elementary Chapter of the Year, and in 2026, Best Buddies International recognized the program as its Overall Outstanding Elementary Chapter of the Year. The program strongly models disability inclusion, acceptance, and meaningful peer relationships from an early age.
Waugh Chapel Elementary, exemplifies a transformative model of inclusion, leadership, and community impact. The chapter successfully integrates students from specialty programs through innovative small friendship groups and monthly activities that foster authentic peer relationships. Beyond daily inclusion during lunch, recess, and cultural arts, the chapter engages in impactful community outreach, such as schoolwide donation drives and service projects for local nursing home residents. Waugh Chapel serves as a pioneer in its district, inspiring eight new chapters across local elementary and middle schools and sharing its inclusive practices at county and state educational conferences.
"Waugh Chapel Elementary School represents the very best of what happens when inclusion takes root at an early age. They are showing our entire community how to break down barriers and build meaningful, lifelong connections,” said Karrisa Kelly, director of the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities. “The Chapter’s impressive growth, service projects, and commitment to empathy are inspiring. Waugh Chapel isn't just leading the way for Anne Arundel County; they are setting the standard for a more inclusive, compassionate future."
This event is held in October each year during National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Businesses, employers, and community groups will also be recognized for their contributions to improving the lives of people with disabilities over the past year. The event will feature performances by Sonny Ceferrati along with exhibitors sharing information on disability resources. ASL interpreters and CART will be available for the duration of the event.
The event is free and open to the public.
For more information about this event or the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities, contact the ADA Office at 410-222-4383. Anyone needing accommodations other than ASL or CART interpretation should contact the ADA office by phone or email agmart11@aacounty.org at least seven days in advance of the event. Individuals who use Maryland Relay may dial 7-1-1 for assistance. All materials are available in an alternative format upon request.