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Last Chance to Nominate a Texas Disability Employment Champion

Every day across Texas, employers, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and community leaders are creating opportunities that help Texans with disabilities succeed in the workplace and beyond. Their efforts strengthen businesses, expand opportunities, and build more inclusive communities, but many of these accomplishments go unrecognized.

The Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities (GCPD) invites nominations for the 2026 Lex Frieden Employment Awards, which honor individuals, employers, organizations, and local committees making a meaningful difference in the lives of Texans with disabilities.

Whether you know an employer that has built an inclusive workplace, an entrepreneur with a disability who has achieved business success, a local committee making an impact in its community, or someone whose lifetime of service deserves recognition, we encourage you to submit a nomination.

Award Categories

• Employer Awards (Small, Medium, Large, and Nonprofit Employers)

Recognizing Texas employers that create accessible, supportive, and integrated workplaces where employees with disabilities can thrive.

• Entrepreneurship Award

Honoring an entrepreneur with a disability who demonstrates innovation, leadership, and business success.

• Martha Arbuckle Award

Recognizing an outstanding local committee project that advances disability inclusion and community engagement.

• Governor's Trophy

The committee's highest honor, recognizing a lifetime of leadership and commitment to improving opportunities for Texans with disabilities.

There is no cost to nominate, and self-nominations are welcome.

Nomination Deadline: July 31, 2026

Don't miss the opportunity to recognize the people and organizations making Texas a more inclusive place to live and work.

Submission guidelines, nomination forms, and additional information are available on the GCPD website:

Lex Frieden Employment Awards Information and Nomination Forms

Please help us spread the word by sharing this opportunity with your colleagues, partners, and community networks.

Questions? Contact GCPD at gcpd@gov.texas.gov or (512) 463-5739.

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