The Arc of Rowan annual membership meeting and reception took place on March 30 at The Arc of Rowan office.

The Arc of Rowan presented several awards to some very deserving individuals.

Community Inclusion Award: Spencer Cal Ripken. To recognize an organization that is building community connections to support and include people with disabilities.

Parent Volunteer of the Year: Lea Ann Jernigan. To honor an individual who has a child with developmental disabilities, and whose volunteer efforts have improved the welfare of people with developmental disabilities.

Community Service Award: First Baptist Church of Salisbury. To recognize an organization or a group that has exhibited outstanding community service in support of people with developmental disabilities.

Self-Advocate Award: David Hemmings. To recognize a person with a disability who has contributed in a distinguished manner service to the community.

Support Professional of the Year: Gary Yelton. To recognize an individual employed in community developmental disabilities services or supports who has demonstrated sensitivity and the ability to provide outstanding support which results in increased independence for people with developmental disabilities.

Educator of the Year: Marla Miller. To recognize a classroom teacher who has demonstrated excellence in teaching students with developmental disabilities while working towards the most inclusive education setting.

Volunteer of the year: Jay Taylor. To recognize a volunteer who has given generously of time and talents to accomplish the mission of The Arc of Rowan.

Distinguished Services Award: Jeff Barger. To honor a family that has contributed in a distinguished manner, to the promotion of rights of and or services to people with developmental disabilities in Rowan County.

Board President Jay Taylor presided over the meeting. New officers installed for 2017-2018 term include: president, Taylor; vice president, David Bolick; treasurer, Gary Rhodes; and secretary, Beth Foreman.

Nominations for new board members include Keith Gapen and self advocate Jennifer Jernigan.

Board members to date include Bolick, Wilson Cherry, Foreman, Gapen, Cora Greene, Bridgette Henderson, Debbie Martin, Peter Murphy, Suzette Pritchard, Rhodes and Taylor.

Self advocates are Andrew Stirewalt and Jernigan.

Ex-officio members are Vernice Gallon and Gary Yelton. Outgoing board members are Janet Stirewalt and Mary Jane Hartley.

The Arc of Rowan is a Rowan County United Way member agency.