Each year at the SUFU Conference Awards are given to well deserving self-advocates from around the state of Maine. We are proud of the work that they do and want to recognize their accomplishments:
This years Paige Barton Award Winner is Jon McGovern of Bangor. Jon exemplifies self-advocacy through his dedication to being a mentor to others and furthering his leadership. Congratulations Jon!
The following individuals received the Directors Choice Award. This award is given by the Executive Director, Monique Stairs.
Kevin Stubbs received this award in recognition of his persistence in his advocacy of a new wheel chair.
Jozie Easler received this award in recognition of their service on a committee that worked to eliminate restraints.
A new award was given out this year in memory of Georgia West. Self-Advocates are chosen for this award based upon them finding their voice and taking action in policy making through legislative testimony. Jon McGovern, Rose Belanger and Regina Bowie all received this award.
Each chapter gives out a Marcia Rosen Award. Award winners are chosen by their peers in their chapter.
York County – Theresa Gray
Western Foothills – Roberta Lessard
Discussion and Action – Cindy Thielen
Northern Penobscot – Robert Tyler
Southern Aroostook – James Ouellette
Central Aroostook – Georgia West
Northern Aroostook – Scott Ouellette
Next Level Leadership Award recipients for 2025:
Abbott Philson
Brian Harnish
Chris Heywood
Daniel Francis
David Lawrence
Eric McVay
Jon McGovern
Kile Pelletier
Regina Bowie
Stace Atter
Stephanie Pelletier
Sarah Trites
Todd Allaire
Tucker Conley
GOAT award recipients for 2025
Brian Harnish
Daniel Francis
Jozie Easler
Maryann Preble
Stace Atter
Stacy Smart
Sarah Trites
Finally Spotlight awards went to the following well-deserved self-advocates:
Brian Harnish
Chris Heywood
David Smith
Elizabeth Guillemette
Edith Johnstone
Greg Elliot
Georgia West
John Burnell
Jamie Kemper
Jon McGovern
Jonathan Robertson
Kile Pelletier
Kevin Stubbs
Lisa Jones
Marco Orlando
Matt D’Amico
Nicole Soucy
Penny Carter
Patrick MacDougal
Rose Belanger
Regina Bowie
Robert Little
Robert Tyler
Stephanie Pelletier
Stacy Smart
Theresa Gray
Will Walton
Congratulations to all the award winners!
