Opening the Dialogue: Disability Employment Awareness in Focus

This October, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), I had the privilege of delivering my Heart of Inclusion keynote virtually to HDR’s Disabilities Employee Network Group (ENG). This event was more than just another speaking engagement; it was the culmination of months of collaboration, advocacy, and a shared belief in the transformative power of inclusion.

From June Collaboration to October Keynote: A Journey of Inclusion

Our journey to this moment began back in June with Sean Larkin, an IT Support Specialist at HDR who leads the Disabilities ENG. Sean is neurodivergent and has found empowerment through self-identifying and sharing his disability story within his organization. His openness and leadership have become a catalyst for meaningful change, helping others see that disability inclusion isn’t just about representation but about belonging.

Meet the Advocate: Sean Larkin’s Role in Changing HDR’s Culture

When Sean reached out to explore bringing The Heart of Inclusion to HDR, his passion was undeniable. He advocated internally, presenting to HDR leadership and even the Vice President of Inclusion, Diversity & Equity (ID&E), to secure the budget necessary to make the event possible. He truly believed in the value of this message and worked tirelessly to make it happen. As he shared in his introduction during the event, his goal as the Chair of the Disabilities ENG is “to hold space, to build community, and to provide a centralizing point for advocacy.”

Those who intersect disability at our company are just as able, if not more than able, to make amazing things happen.

~ Sean Larkin

Sean began the session by welcoming employees from across HDR’s offices and “watch parties” around the country, sharing that many would also tune in later — in the days, weeks, or even years ahead. He reminded everyone that “HDR invites us all to make great things possible,” and he believes that “those who intersect disability at our company are just as able, if not more than able, to make amazing things happen.”

In his reflections on the theme of the event, Sean shared how he and the former ENG Chair, Vincent, wanted to go back to the roots of what it means to be disabled and to celebrate the diversity of disability. When he searched for empowering disability speakers, he came across my TEDx Talk. “Three minutes into watching Alycia’s talk,” he said, “there was a fire lit within me that I had to do better. And that our society could do better.”

Hearing that introduction was humbling and deeply moving. Sean went on to say, “She is a teacher. She is here to bring us a new way, a better way, a way that says yes to inclusion for all. And through that inclusion, we make a gentler world, a more supportive world, a world that works for everyone.” His words captured the essence of why I do this work — to remind people that inclusion makes everything better for everyone.

Beyond Representation: Embracing Belonging in the Workplace

Delivering this keynote during NDEAM felt especially significant. It was more than a presentation; it was a reflection of what happens when individuals and organizations align around purpose. It connected Sean’s personal advocacy with HDR’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, and together we brought the focus of disability employment to the forefront at exactly the right time.

Accessibility Matters: ASL Interpretation and Inclusive Design

A heartfelt thank you goes to Sean Larkin, the entire Disabilities ENG at HDR, and to Emily and Laura, who provided ASL interpretation throughout the virtual event, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all. I also want to recognize Lydia White, ID&E Manager, for her mentorship and support, and Doug Wignall, HDR’s corporate sponsor, whose partnership and generosity helped make this event possible.

One Story + One Voice: The Ripple Effect of Courageous Inclusion

Congratulations to HDR for creating this opportunity for your employees to explore and celebrate disability inclusion in the workplace. Moments like this remind us that inclusion starts with one voice, one story, and one act of courage, and grows into a ripple that touches an entire organization.