Oklahoma Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Director, Dr. Megan Roberts, was recently awarded the University of Oklahoma 2024 Interprofessional Educators and Practitioners Association (IEPA) Leader of the Year award. Dr. Roberts is a dynamic force in disability advocacy and education. Through her leadership of the OKLEND program, she effectively brings together trainees and faculty from 16 different disciplines, teaching them how to work together respectfully and ensure all voices are heard. As an Associate Professor in the College of Medicine at the Oklahoma City campus, she mentors students across Oklahoma. She also chairs the Southern Region LEND Consortium and serves on the National Training Directors Council for the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD).
Her influence extends globally as she has mentored eight Professional Fellows from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania through the Professional Fellows Programs in Inclusive Disability Employment and Inclusive Civic Engagement, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Dr. Roberts provides technical assistance to improve disability-related systems, policies, and services at local, state, and national levels. Her dedication continues to drive positive change in the field. Congratulations, Dr. Megan Roberts!