About the Keith A. Miller Award
The Keith A. Miller Award, presented annually by the Wyoming Institute for Disabilities (WIND), honors individuals who make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities. Named after WIND’s founder, Dr. Keith A. Miller—an advocate, educator, and visionary leader who established the center in 1994—the award reflects his lifelong commitment to building inclusive, supportive communities. Nominees may include volunteers, advocates, caregivers, or leaders who demonstrate exceptional service, advocacy, policy impact, or community leadership. Inspired by Dr. Miller’s belief that “we all have abilities; we all have disabilities,” the award celebrates those who embody his legacy of compassion, equity, and action.
The Keith A. Miller Award is presented annually to a person who makes a powerful difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities in any way. The following list is not meant to be inclusive, but may provide ideas about qualities to look for in potential nominees:
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Dedicated volunteer work;
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Exceptional service on committees, panels, non-profits, or agencies;
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Key leadership in advocacy for people with disabilities;
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Notable accomplishments impacting policy or systems at local, state or national levels;
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Extraordinary family members and/or caregivers;
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Visible and strong leaders and volunteers in Wyoming
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Any other exemplary commitment to improving services, opportunities, or experiences for people with disabilities.
Sandy Root-Elledge Wins 2024 Keith A. Miller Award
WIND is proud to congratulate Sandra Root-Elledge, the former executive director for WIND, on being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for dedicating over 20 years of her career to serving people with disabilities and their families, as well as winning the 2024 Keith A. Miller award at WIND's 30th Anniversary Gala. Root-Elledge was appointed AUCD's Interim Executive Director as of December 4th, 2024.
Past Winners
2023: Donna Sheen
2022: Chele Mecomber Porter
2022: Jeff Gardner
2021: Tammy Aumiller
2020: Lucy Russell
2019: Shari Ketelhut
2018: Terri Dawson
2017: Virginia Hicks
2016: Beth Miller Schieck
2015: Margaret "Mickey" Anderson
2014: Donna Shipp
2013: Brenda Oswald
2012: Richard Leslie
2011: J. Darryl Cooper
2010: Cody Lou Taubert
2009: Rose Rennell
2008: Elva Laird
2007: Keith A. Miller
2006: Peggy Nickel
2005: Lynda Baumgardner
