June 27, 2024 By CDHD Congratulations, Olivia Lebens! Please join us in sending a huge congratulations to Interdisciplinary Training Coordinator Olivia Lebens for recently being recognized by the University of Idaho’s Career Services. Olivia received this year’s Career Impact Award for her outstanding service in encouraging and supporting the career exploration, readiness and success of University of Idaho students. The award is given annually to one University of Idaho (U of I) faculty member and one staff member. The recipient’s work must uphold Career Services’ mission to provide U of I students with services and resources that empower them in making life decisions and pursuing career success. “For more than 10 years, Olivia has been a steadfast support for students pursuing careers in human services, and particularly those who plan to work with people with disabilities,” said Erik Luvaas, Director of the CDHD Interdisciplinary Training Program. She has long been a leader in our CDHD Student Trainee Program, which recruits U of I students from all academic backgrounds to work with us at the CDHD. In their roles, students work with our many projects to gain real professional experience while learning about inclusivity and accessibility. Many of our trainees report a positive experience within the Student Trainee Program, crediting Olivia for making their time at the CDHD both educational and personally rewarding. “No matter what their career trajectory, by the time they conclude their training experience at the CDHD, all students are better prepared to approach their work with an appreciation for diversity, equitable approaches to practice, and a philosophy of inclusion. Olivia works tirelessly to help students acquire professional development experiences to prepare them to meet the demands of their careers while embracing these values,” Dr Luvaas said. Congratulations, Olivia, on your award. You are the driving force behind the success of our trainee program, and the positive impact you have on our student trainees is immeasurable. We are all so happy for your success!