Disability Rights Texas is proud to announce that our own Susan Murphree, Senior Policy Specialist, is the first recipient of the Arc of Texas Virginia Eernisse Legacy Award. The late Ms. Eernisse, who passed away in early 2018, worked throughout her lifetime to compassionately support individuals and communities. She spearheaded the establishment of Special Olympics, The Arc of the Gulf Coast and Imagine Enterprises among a long list of other accomplishments.
Susan Murphree is a tireless advocate whose work on our Community Integration/Healthcare Team has been integral in helping DRTx and the Arc of Texas achieve many advancements for Texans with disabilities. “Virginia Eernisse was a great role model for me and others,” said Susan. “I am very honored to be associated with her through this award and was blessed to have known her.”
“Virginia was a force in the community, and to receive an award in her honor is recognition of the highest order,” said Mary Faithfull, DRTx Executive Director. “Susan embodies all that Virginia believed in and worked throughout her lifetime to achieve.”
Susan was recently honored at the Arc of Texas Annual Leadership and Legacy Awards Dinner on November 2, 2018. The annual event recognizes individuals and organizations promoting the rights of individuals in Texas with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The gala also honored Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. as Policy Maker of the Year and Shredding on the Go CEO James Parker as Employer of the Year.