Each year the RCPD hosts an annual awards and appreciation reception at the end of the spring semester to honor the outstanding achievements of scholarship recipients, exceptional faculty and staff, and generous donors who support the RCPD mission. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the RCPD and each award recipient demonstrates what it means to maximize ability and opportunity through ambition and innovation.
Dr. Jonathan Weaver, Assistant Professor and Director of Online Learning in the MSU Psychology Department, is the recipient of the 2022 RCPD Spirit of Ability Award. This award is given to leaders within the MSU community who are compassionate and who create welcoming and inclusive environments that provide opportunities for all.
Dr. Weaver ensures his students' needs are met and provides an accommodating environment. The student who nominated Dr. Weaver says, "Dr. Weaver goes above and beyond to accommodate RCPD students. ALL of his content is accessible for a screen reader, he has closed captioning, and he puts trigger warnings in lectures with sensitive topics. When I had him for an in person class a few years ago he set up a quiet space in his own office for me and other students with private room testing to take our exams. He also posts several different formats of his notes to make sure they are accessible for everyone. Dr. Weaver genuinely cares for his students' learning AND overall wellbeing. He is respectful of people with all identities and I could not feel more supported in his class. If anyone deserves an award for supporting RCPD students it is him!"
Dr. Weaver exemplifies the spirit of ability through his leadership, compassion, and the belief that all students can reach their fullest potential no matter their disability—a true leader in maximizing ability and opportunity for all.
Congratulations to Dr. Weaver!