Announcing the 2025 Lifeworks Award Winners

At Lifeworks, we believe that true inclusion happens when people with disabilities are valued, empowered, and supported in every aspect of life – from employment to travel to policy change. That’s why, at this year’s Annual Celebration, we are proud to present three awards that recognize outstanding leaders in disability inclusion:

• The Jim Wolford Community Impact Award
• The Employer of the Year Award
• The Disability Inclusion Champion Award

Each of these awards highlights individuals and organizations that are making Minnesota a more accessible, equitable, and inclusive place for people with disabilities.

Jim Wolford Community Impact Award: Metropolitan Airports Commission – MSP Airport and Airport Foundation MSP

The Jim Wolford Community Impact Award, created in memory of Jim Wolford, business leader and longtime champion of Lifeworks’ mission, honors community changemakers who are living into Jim’s call to action – to cherish people and build communities where everyone is valued.

Through this annual recognition, Lifeworks honors a person or organization who has significantly advanced disability inclusion through advocacy, policy, employment, or fundraising.

Metropolitan Airports Commission – MSP Airport and Airport Foundation MSP have long been a leader in accessibility, ensuring that travelers with disabilities can navigate the airport with ease and dignity. A champion of inclusive employment since 1995, Metropolitan Airports Commission – MSP Airport has hired more than 60 Lifeworks clients and continues to set a national standard for accessibility in air travel. In 2025, the Airport Foundation MSP deepened this commitment by engaging Lifeworks to train airport staff and volunteers on fostering an inclusive culture. Metropolitan Airports Commission – MSP Airport and Airport Foundation MSP exemplifies the spirit of this award.

Employer of the Year: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota

For nearly 40 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota has been a dedicated employer of people with disabilities, continuously evolving its practices to ensure meaningful career opportunities. They have embraced technology to create more computer-based roles, demonstrating that people with disabilities belong in technical jobs. Beyond employment, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota actively invests in disability inclusion by underwriting free community trainings and improving accommodations for their own workforce. Their leadership in disability-inclusive hiring sets a powerful example for businesses everywhere.

Disability Inclusion Champion: Sumukha Terakanambi

A self-advocate and policy consultant with the Minnesota Council on Disability, Sumukha Terakanambi is a driving force for systemic change. Through his work, he ensures disability is prioritized in policy decisions and champions competitive employment without compromising essential benefits. His partnership with Lifeworks to develop training on accessing disability services has empowered countless individuals and families. Sumukha’s advocacy, expertise, and lived experience make him a true disability inclusion champion.

Join Us to Celebrate These Remarkable Leaders

These winners are shaping a future where disability inclusion isn’t just an initiative – it’s the standard. Join us at the Annual Celebration to honor their impact, connect with the Lifeworks community, and be inspired by the incredible work happening in Minnesota.

2025 Lifeworks Annual Celebration
Friday, May 9
Hilton Minneapolis

Learn more and purchase tickets: lifeworks.org/celebration