Governor of West Virginia
Bob Wise

As Governor, I often see the outcome of the hard work and determination of many individuals. The 2002 Rehabilitants of the Year are perfect examples.

Today’s honorees have faced significant challenges in their lives with courage and determination and, as a result, are now working and living independently. I am sure the eight honorees will tell you that it hasn’t always been easy, but it was worth the struggle.

West Virginians always have been, and always will be, strong-willed people. This is what makes our culture unique, our families and communities strong and our futures bright.

Congratulations to each of you. May you continue to enjoy success and happiness in your lives.

Cabinet Secretary, West Virginia Department of Education and the Arts
Kay Goodwin

When I visit the Rehabilitation Center and the Rehabilitation offices statewide, I have the privilege of meeting individuals with disabilities who have great courage and dignity.

The 2002 Rehabilitants of the Year are shining examples of this “pioneering” spirit. On a daily basis, they overcome obstacles to achieve their lifelong goals and dreams. The optimism and positive attitudes of these individuals give them the strength to reach beyond the ordinary and achieve great things.

Thank you, honorees, for sharing your lives with us. We’re encouraged and enriched by your stories and success. Congratulations and best wishes.

Interim Director, West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services
Janice A. Holland

The 2002 Rehabilitant of the Year Ceremony highlights eight determined individuals who have overcome obstacles to enjoy successful, fulfilling lives. Facing their challenges with courage resulted in their lives being positively changed. These individuals represent thousands of West Virginians with disabilities who refuse to allow circumstances to dictate the quality of their lives.

Congratulations for your success. While the challenges you face may be different, the struggle you experience is not unique. In one way or another, everyone faces obstacles to their dreams of success and achievement. Your lives inspire us to face our own challenges more courageously.

Rehabilitant of the Year News Releases in TEXT and PDF
This link will take you to individual black and white photographs for publication
Individual press releases in PDF format are as follows

Jillian Faith Barger-State CO-Winner, Lewisburg District - PDF - TEXT
Michael Osborne-State CO-Winner, Lewisburg District - PDF - TEXT
Ganim Howard-Charleston District - PDF - TEXT
William Jenkins-Clarksburg District - PDF - TEXT
Jason Miller-Wheeling District - PDF - TEXT
Linda Lane Martin-Beckley District - PDF - TEXT
Kim Lee Capehart-Huntington District - PDF - TEXT
Rondal W. Hardman-Martinsburg District - PDF - TEXT

2002 Rehabilitant of the Year Ceremony
Photos Of the 2002 Ceremony

This year's recipients of the Rehabilitant of the Year Award and their employers are as follows:

2002 West Virginia Rehabilitant of the Year State Winners Jillian Faith Barger State CO-Winner, Lewisburg District Michael Osborne State CO-Winner, Lewisburg District Ganim Howard Charleston District William Jenkins Clarksburg District Jason Miller Wheeling District Linda Lane Martin Beckley District Kim Lee Capehart Huntington District Rondal W. Hardman Martinsburg District

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services seeks to enable and empower individuals with disabilities to work and live independently. There are 31 district and branch offices located throughout the state. District offices are located in Charleston, Clarksburg, Beckley, Huntington, Wheeling, Martinsburg and Lewisburg.

Past Winners of Rehabilitant of the Year