21st Annual Mayor’s Awards
Beate Bjoerklund (Supervising Librarian, Santa Barbara Public Library), Lauren Cashin (Global Marketplace Excellence, Deckers), Mayor Randy Rowse, Anita Kwok (Director of Talent & Culture, Rosewood Miramar Beach), Laurie Vasquez (Assistive Technologies Specialist, Santa Barbara City College), Christian Limon (DSPS Program Specialist, Santa Barbara City College), Pearl Mortilla (Office Manager/HR Assistant, PathPoint)
The City of Santa Barbara and Department of Rehabilitation proudly celebrated the 21st Annual Mayor’s Awards at Cabrillo Pavilion, honoring local businesses and organizations that champion accessibility and inclusion in the workplace. This milestone event coincided with National Disability Employment Awareness Month and reflected this year’s theme: “Celebrating Value and Talent.”
The breakfast event brought together community leaders, elected officials, and representatives from organizations dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. Attendees enjoyed a video montage highlighting two decades of the Mayor’s Awards, followed by a keynote address from Pearl Mortilla.
Keynote Speaker Pearl Mortilla
Pearl first came to PathPoint through a Department of Rehabilitation referral and worked closely with one of our Employment Specialists to secure an administrative internship at our organization. Through her dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic, that internship became a permanent position and ultimately led to her promotion to Office Manager.
Today, she is the heart of the PathPoint office, greeting every guest with warmth and positivity, creating a welcoming environment, and ensuring critical operations run smoothly. Most importantly, she is committed to continuous learning and personal growth, always seeking new ways to develop her skills and contribute to our mission. She often says she plans to stay with PathPoint until retirement, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her as both a leader and role model.
Nonprofit Champions of Accessibility: Santa Barbara Public Library
This award honors a nonprofit organization that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to promoting inclusion, accessibility, and equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The recipient actively creates programs, partnerships, or services that empower people with disabilities to thrive in their communities, education, or workplace.
Beate Bjoerklund, Supervising Librarian at the Santa Barbara Public Library, accepted the award.
Beyond Barriers Business Award: Deckers
Honors an employer whose policies and initiatives have significantly advanced inclusion and reduced workplace barriers.
Lauren Cashin, Global Marketplace Excellence at Deckers, accepted the award.
Inclusive Leadership Award: Anita Kwok – Rosewood Miramar Beach
Honors a team or individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in mentoring, advocating for, and advancing employees with barriers.
Mayor’s ADA Legacy Award: Santa Barbara City College
Honors a past Mayor’s Award recipient that has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to advancing the rights, inclusion, and opportunities of people with disabilities.
Laurie Vasquez, Assistive Technologies Specialist, and Christian Limon, DSPS Program Specialist, at Santa Barbara City College accepted the award.
Organizing Committee:
- Alpha Employment Services
- California Department of Rehabilitation
- City of Santa Barbara
- Tri-Counties Regional Center
- Goodwill Industries of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties
- Access Central Coast (formerly ILRC)
- SBUSD Bridges Program
- American Sign Language Program at Santa Barbara City College
- Momentum Work, Inc.
- PathPoint
- Ms. Julie Holmes
- Mr. Ignacio Ponce
Special thanks to:
- Vons-Albertsons-Pavillions
- Trader Joe's
- Albertsons
- Mo's to Go
- Mayor Randy Rowse for his support
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is observed every October to raise awareness about the contributions of workers with disabilities. It highlights the importance of creating equitable job opportunities and building inclusive communities where everyone can contribute their talents. Established in 1945 by Congress, NDEAM reinforces the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have full access to employment and community involvement. This initiative aligns with the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination and ensures equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in all aspects of public life. Learn more about the history and federal language of NDEAM and the ADA on the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.
The City of Santa Barbara is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for everyone, including individuals with disabilities. We offer accessible recreational programs, and dedicated services to ensure all residents can fully participate in city life. By collaborating with local organizations, we strive to create a community that values diversity and provides equal opportunities for employment and participation in year-round programs.
The City continually improves its facilities, programs, policies, and practices to ensure accessibility. Key initiatives include the Airport’s Sunflower Program, Website Accessibility, and the Access Advisory Committee
For more information on the City’s accessible website features and resources, visit our Accessibility Resources.