Awards

Named in honor of Margaret Burley, former executive director of the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities for thirty-nine years, the Margaret Burley Impact Award recognizes someone who has made a significant impact on those with disabilities. As a parent herself of a son with disabilities, Margaret advocated for her son's right and ability to learn, grow and be a contributing member of their community. Under her guidance and the guidance of others, the Ohio Coalition went from one part-time director to an agency with more than twenty-five staff members and a $2.5 million budget. 

The nominees of the Impact Award have served as mentors, coaches, advocates, and/or connectors for the disability community and have demonstrated ongoing and continuous passion, dedication, and support.

Lindsey Brinkman
Licensed School Counselor, Ottawa-Glandorg High School

Lindsey Brinkman, licensed school counselor, is the ninth and tenth grade school counselor at Ottawa-Glandorf High School, where she is also an alumna. With thirteen years of experience in education, Lindsey earned her bachelor of science in secondary education from Bowling Green State University and her master’s in school counseling from Liberty University. She began her career as an English teacher at Ada Exempted Village Schools and later at Olentangy Orange High School before transitioning into counseling. Passionate about helping students find joy and overcome life’s obstacles, Lindsey has been honored as a Most Influential Teacher and invited back to Ada to serve as a keynote speaker for National Honor Society and graduation. She also serves as a Key Club advisor, helping students engage with their community and give back in positive ways; she is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community that shaped her. Outside of school, Lindsey enjoys spending time with her husband, their four beautiful children, as well as extended family and friends.