SPAA Educator and Alumnus Recipient of Meritorious Service Award

WMU School of Public Affairs and Administration part-time faculty member and alumnus, Dr. L. Robert McConnell '86 is the 2013 National Rehabilitation Association's (NRA) Max T. Prince Meritorious Service Award. The Meritorious Service Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated faithful service and leadership to NRA. It is given to a member who has provided outstanding membership and leadership for a period of a minimum of ten years, or a member who has demonstrated leadership in a chapter, division and/or national committee.

McConnell has served the NRA in several capacities for 37 years. He has been a national president, national board member and director of its Mary Switzer Memorial Seminar and Scholars program. McConnell also founded and served as president of the association's first Multicultural Division state chapter. School of Public Affairs and Administration director, Dr. Barbara Liggett says that McConnell has been "faithful and fearless" in his advocacy for the employment and independence of persons with disabilities. She also stated that he knows the importance of access, equity and justice for all, values held dearly by all in public administration.